The Skoda Yeti
The Compact SUV market is full of no nonsense crossovers that look the part but don’t cost the earth. So how does the Skoda Yeti stack up among the competition?
What is it?
Skoda’s Yeti may be scary by name but there is nothing monstrous about this compact off roader. Skoda has blended the best of both worlds with the Yeti, compact enough to take on city driving challenges but robust enough to venture off the scenic route. There is a huge range of options to choose from including three engines, two or four wheel drive and manual or automatic gear boxes.
Who is it aimed at?
The compact SUV is aimed at young families who benefit most from its incredible flexibility and versatility.
Styling?
Simply designed the Yeti may have quite a boxy look but because of this you get great all round room and visibility. The 4×4 chunky styling gives the Yeti quite a muscular stance.
Under the Bonnet?
Our test car was powered by a perky 2.0-litre diesel engine with 160bhp and a punchy 350Nm of pulling power torque. It was also equipped with a four-wheel drive system that operates at the touch of a button to shift power to different wheels depending on the conditions. So you can sit back smug in the knowledge this is a car prepared for all eventualities.
Flexible seating is a feature of the Yeti
What about Inside?
Inside, the Yeti is all about comfort and practicality and the design throughout captures the essence of simple and functional. All the audio controls are housed on the steering wheel and everything is within easy reach of the driver. The interior is clever and flexible, a feature particularly appreciated by children. Skoda’s Varioflex system allows more than 20 different seating combinations and seats can be moved forwards and backwards, reclined, rolled up individually or completely removed.
On the Road?
The high driving position affords excellent all-round visibility. On the road the Yeti drives like a small car and if feels secure through corners and sure-footed on any surface. At 4.2m long it is easy to park, yet it still manages to have plenty of luggage space for just about anything you might want to carry inside.
And Safety?
Skoda hasn’t scrimped on the safety, there are plenty of airbags dual-front, front side, full-length curtain and driver’s knee airbags and Rear Side Airbags can be fitted as an optional extra. There is also stability control and a host of driver aids.
What about fuel economy?
Four wheel drive systems are heavy and as a result cause a huge drain on fuel economy. In contrast the Yeti uses a part time four wheel drive system. This means it takes up far less weight than older systems which impacts favourably on fuel and emissions. Fuel economy on a combined cycle is 5.9 litres per 100km and the 155g/km of CO2 means the annual Motor Tax bill is €330.
Okay so the Verdict?
Not a car you would buy for looking good on the school run but it is simple, sensible and very clever. It makes an excellent family car; it is easy to drive and to live with.
Why you’ll buy one? Well equipped; good to drive; flexible seating
Why you won’t? Room for rear passengers is slightly cramped; styling may not appeal to everyone.
LAST WORD: The Compact SUV is, despite the current economic climate, still a must-have item for young families and the Skoda Yeti is one of the best around.
Competitors: Hyundai ix35; Kia Sportage; Ford Kuga; VW Tiguan
Engine: 1.968cc four-cylinder turbodiesel with a six-speed auto box, putting out 125kW @ 4,200rpm and 350Nm of torque.
Max speed: 201 km/h
0-100km/h: 8.4 seconds
Emissions (motor tax) : 155 g/km €330
Starting price: Test car was priced €30,045 (+ Style Pack at €1,995)
Model price range : €22,705 – €33,955
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 5.9 l/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up (seats down): 416 Litres (1760 litres) Accommodates a Double buggy with ease
Car Seats: Isofix points for two car seats and both were extremely easy to use.
Length: 4223 (mm)
Width: 1793 (mm)
Height: 1691 (mm)
Wheelbase: 2578 (mm)
26th April, 2012
