Road test - Skoda Yeti
Author: Ian Strachan
It was sort of appropriate that I was driving along the snow-packed lanes of North Yorkshire in a vehicle named after the Abominable Snowman.
It was sort of appropriate that I was driving along the
snow-packed lanes of North Yorkshire in a vehicle named after the
Abominable Snowman.
That said, the new Skoda Yeti is far from abominable. Even
though I was driving the two-wheel drive version of this latest
crossover from Skoda, it still performed well. I was caught out on
one snowy hill and required assistance, but that was more my fault
for over-estimating its ability. I'm sure the four wheel drive
version would have coped, despite the compressed, icy snow covering
the road.
The two-wheel drive version - available with 1.2 petrol and 2.0
litre diesel engines is probably more at home on the road, even
though it looks the part. The 1.8 and two litre four wheel drive
Yetis are more suited to off-road duties.
Skoda is the latest manufacturer to pitch into the lucrative and
growing crossover/4x4 market with the Yeti, and the range starts at
just £13,775, rising to £22,170 for the
top-of-the-range 4x4 in Elegance trim.
The Yeti has a quality feel to it inside and out. Despite being
an inexpensive vehicle it feels substantial.
The Yeti is also a good looker - every bit as attractive as its
rivals. It is smart, well-proportioned and rugged without looking
functional. Its looks are helped by chunky black rear window
pillars, roof rails and beefy 17 inch alloys on the SE spec and
above.
Inside the car has a lot of class about it. It's roomy, with
attractive upholstery of a surprisingly high quality. The dash is
simple and uncluttered, with sensibly placed, easily accessible
controls.
Interior space is very good, and Skoda's flexible "Varioflex"
rear seating arrangement allows maximum use to be made of the
available space.
I drove the 1.2 petrol version. Linked to a springy six-speed
manual gearbox, this is a good unit, offering plenty of power. The
sixth cog undoubtedly contributes to the Yeti's impressive
consumption figures of 37.2 mpg in mixed driving.
Elegance specification gives a good range of extras including
multi-function steering wheel, parking sensors, automatic
headlights with cornering function, leather upholstery, heated
front seats, headlight washers, rain sensors, dual zone air
conditioning, CD player with iPod compatibility and cruise control.
My test vehicle was fitted with a touch-screen navigation and DVD
system at an extra £1,400.
It's difficult to fault this Skoda. It's a roomy SUV with a very
keen price which will keep other manufacturers on their toes.
Road test by Ian Strachan Communications
Ltd
Ian Strachan is a motoring and business writer and PR
consultant. He can be contacted on 01543 490932 or 07949
202596 or via email: ian@strachan13.freeserve.co.uk