The Skoda Roomster, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2010, is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) primarily marketed in Europe. Designed as a practical and versatile vehicle for families and individuals needing flexible space, the Roomster distinguished itself with its unique asymmetrical rear door configuration and a focus on interior usability. While never officially sold in the United States, the Roomster represents Skoda’s commitment to offering affordable and functional vehicles within the Volkswagen Group portfolio. The 1.2 HTP (70 horsepower) engine variant was a popular choice, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for urban and suburban driving.
Skoda Roomster (Facelift 2010) 1.2 HTP: An Overview
The Roomster, launched in 2006 and receiving a significant facelift in 2010, aimed to fill a niche between traditional hatchbacks and larger MPVs. Skoda, a Czech automaker now part of the Volkswagen Group, positioned the Roomster as a competitor to vehicles like the Renault Modus and Opel Meriva. The 2010 facelift brought cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear styling, as well as interior enhancements. The 1.2 HTP engine, a three-cylinder petrol unit, was a key component of the Roomster’s appeal, offering a relatively economical option for buyers. The vehicle’s design prioritized interior space and practicality, making it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle for everyday use.
Engine & Performance
The 2010 Skoda Roomster 1.2 HTP is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline three-cylinder petrol engine, designated the EA189 / CJLB. This naturally aspirated engine produces 70 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 112 Nm (82.61 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides sufficient power for typical urban and highway driving. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 58.4 hp/l. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.9 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 15.1 seconds. The top speed is rated at 159 km/h (98.8 mph). The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l). CO2 emissions are 143 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Skoda Roomster is a five-door MPV with a distinctive design. A key feature is its asymmetrical rear door configuration, with a standard hinged door on one side and a sliding door on the other, enhancing accessibility in tight parking spaces. The Roomster offers seating for five passengers and a relatively spacious interior for its size. The 2010 facelift brought updated front and rear styling, including a revised grille, headlights, and taillights. Inside, the Roomster features a functional dashboard layout and durable materials. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Roomster’s focus is on practicality and usability, offering a versatile interior with multiple storage compartments and a configurable seating arrangement. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4214 mm (165.91 in.) in length, 1684 mm (66.3 in.) in width, and 1607 mm (63.27 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2620 mm (103.15 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Roomster |
| Generation | Roomster (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 HTP (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 159 km/h (98.8 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.1 kg/Hp, 58.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.7 kg/Nm, 93.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 112 Nm @ 3000 rpm (82.61 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CJLB |
| Engine displacement | 1198 cm3 (73.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4214 mm (165.91 in.) |
| Width | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Height | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1436 mm (56.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. ICE drives front wheels. |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Skoda Roomster 1.2 HTP, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a practical and economical solution for buyers seeking a versatile MPV. Its unique design, combined with Skoda’s reputation for build quality and value, made it a popular choice in European markets.
