Why Buy a Used Skoda Roomster?
For anyone needing flexibility in a car, the Skoda Roomster delivers plenty of value at an affordable price. Unlike many compact cars, it cleverly merges the practicality of a small van with the comfort of a passenger vehicle.
Key Reasons to Choose a Skoda Roomster
- Affordability: A used Skoda Roomster offers excellent value for money. You get a multi-functional car, without breaking the bank.
- Family-Friendly Features: The Roomster provides spacious seating with extra storage options, making it ideal for growing households.
- Variety in Engine Options: Whether you’re looking for great fuel economy with a diesel engine or prefer petrol-powered stability, there’s a Roomster for you.
- Unique Design: It’s quirky, yes—but that high roofline provides loads of headroom and a sense of space rare in cars of its size.
Skoda Roomster Overview
Introduced in 2006 by Czech automaker Skoda, the Roomster was designed to stand out. Its unique, slightly boxy profile may not appeal to everyone, but the distinct design prioritises practicality over flash. Production ran until 2015, creating a solid decade's worth of models to choose from.
Design and Practicality
- Interior Space: The standout feature of the Roomster is its vast cabin, allowing ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The "VarioFlex" seating system makes it incredibly versatile, with rear seats that can slide, fold, or be removed entirely.
- Boot Capacity: With the rear seats in place, Roomster's boot offers an impressive 450 litres of storage, expanding to 1,780 litres with seats removed. Perfect for a family holiday or a trip to the DIY store.
Generations and Trims Breakdown
The Roomster only saw one generation in its lifetime, but it offered a wide selection of trims and engine configurations to suit diverse needs.
Popular Roomster Trims
- Roomster 1 (Base Level): Ideal for budget buyers, the entry-level trim delivers on basics but doesn’t skimp on quality.
- Roomster SE and Roomster Elegance: Additions like upgraded upholstery, air conditioning, and more advanced infotainment systems make these a great mid-tier option.
- Roomster Scout: Designed with rugged purposes in mind, the Scout offers higher ground clearance and protective body cladding for a semi-off-road look.
- Roomster GreenLine: Prioritising fuel economy, the GreenLine trims incorporate eco-friendly features and lower CO2 emissions.
What to Look for When Buying
To make sure you're getting a quality used Skoda Roomster, keep the following checklist in mind during your search:
Inspection Points
Check the Service History
Verify that the car has been regularly serviced. Look out for scheduled maintenance, particularly for timing belt replacements on diesel models.
Known Issues
While generally reliable, some owners report issues with door locks, electric windows, and EGR valves in diesel variants. Test every function before committing.
Rust and Bodywork
Inspect for rust along the wheel arches and beneath the car. Pay special attention to older models that may have been exposed to harsher conditions.
VarioFlex Rear Seating
Ensure the rear seats can slide, recline, and fold as intended. Replacing this seating system can be costly.
Test Drive
Take the Roomster for a thorough test drive and check for:
- Smooth transition through gears
- Engine noises, particularly on cold starts
- Comfortable ride quality
FAQs
Is the Skoda Roomster still being made?
Unfortunately, Skoda discontinued the Roomster in 2015. However, its practicality and reliability ensure it remains a popular choice in the used market.
What are common problems with the Skoda Roomster?
Some owners have reported issues with electric windows, door locks, and EGR valves. Regular maintenance and thorough checks can mitigate potential problems.
Is the Roomster fuel-efficient?
Yes, particularly the GreenLine diesel variants, which deliver impressive fuel economy with low CO2 emissions. Even petrol variants offer respectable mileage.
How big is the Roomster’s boot capacity?
The boot holds 450 litres with the seats in place and expands to a generous 1,780 litres when the rear seats are removed.
How much does a used Skoda Roomster cost?
Prices vary based on age, condition, and mileage, but you can typically find used Skoda Roomsters ranging from £3,000 to £8,000.
What trims were available on the Roomster?
Trims include the entry-level Roomster 1, mid-tier SE and Elegance models, the rugged Scout trim, and the eco-friendly GreenLine variants.
Is the Roomster good for family use?
Absolutely. Its roomy interior, practical storage, and child-seat-friendly rear options make it a great choice for families.
Are spare parts available for the Roomster?
Yes, spare parts are widely available, thanks to Skoda's reliable European dealer network.
What’s the towing capacity of the Roomster?
The Roomster can tow up to 1,200kg, depending on the engine variant. Check specific model details to confirm capacity before use.
Is the Roomster suitable for long-distance travel?
Definitely! Its spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and fuel-efficient engines make it a great companion for long road trips.
