Skoda Roomster (06 on) - Review

Good ride comfort and supportive seats mean the Roomster can be used quite happily for long journeys. The three-cylinder diesel engines have a rather off-beat, 'thrummy' quality which some drivers might dislike - particularly those not used to diesels. The 1.4-litre can also be noisy when revved hard. Road noise and tyre noise levels are low though and while air conditioning is missing from the standard equipment list of the entry-level Roomster, it does have electric front windows. The interior of the car is airy - thanks to the large rear windows - and can be made brighter with the selection of a panoramic glass roof from the options list.

If the Roomster was only able to offer its 450 litres minimum luggage space, it would still be one of the most practical cars you could buy for the money. However, the luggage space can be increased to 530 litres with all three rear seats still in the car and available for use. The rear seats can be folded or removed, or the two outer seats can be moved closer to the centre of the car to increase shoulder room by taking out the middle seat. The seats are easy to fold and easily light enough for one person to lift them in and out of the car. Other storage space is generous, with two glove compartments and wide door storage bins. Under-seat storage is also available.

The Roomster feels every inch a modern car on the inside with neat touches, subtle colour combinations and metallic detailing on the door handles. The plastics are good quality but it's not the most inviting of interiors, however the instrument dials are easy to read and all the controls are clearly labelled and well laid out. It's also very easy to get comfortable thanks to a driver's seat which is height adjustable, plus a steering column which adjusts for reach and height. Visibility is excellent too.