SKODA YETI launched @ Rs.15.4 to Rs.16.62 lakhs

Verdict

Styling The Yeti isn’t the most attractive of SUVs with its Skoda family nose and oddly placed fog lights. You will have to live with it to get adjusted, The Yeti’s rear isn’t bad looking and its chunky bumpers give it some rugged SUV-style appeal. Environment The lowest emitting engine should be the 2.0-litre TDI 108bhp, which we’re yet to get data for.

However, the 140bhp-rated engine version launched in India  emits just 159g/km CO2, which is good for this type of vehicle. Handling It’s surprisingly car-like to drive and very capable off-road too. It’s a solid motorway cruiser, but it’s also quite fun to drive on twisty B-roads. When you venture off the tarmac, the 4×4 system is superb and the Yeti will happily trundle over mixed terrain, while even the two-wheel drive versions hold their own on loose ground. Comfort The Yeti feels refined and rides well, even on larger wheels.

Even the most rutted and bumpy roads it handles with little fuss or drama. Inside, the slightly sculpted seats offer good support for longer journeys, while its excellent build quality lets little road or wind noise through to the cabin. Quality + reliability The Yeti’s perceived quality is very good from the exterior finish down to the smart-looking interior. The dash has elements taken from the Roomster and Superb, with quality switchgear and a neat finish. There are no rattles or creaks around the cabin either, even when travelling over tougher terrain. Skoda’s reputation for reliability is exceptional. Performance There’s a good range of engines on offer.

The 1.2 TSI developing 105bhp is deceptively lively, while the 1.8 TSI with 158bhp is probably the briskest of the range. The 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel, which is expected to be the best seller, is more economically focused but needs working through the gears to get the best out of it. Roominess The sliding/folding/removable rear seating makes for simple and adaptable storage options. The boot holds up to a maximum of 1,760 litres with the rear seats fully removed and, when in place, there’s plenty of room for two adults in comfort.

Thanks to the Yeti’s tall body there’s decent head room too. Running costs We didn’t get to see the standard stereo as our test cars were fitted with a VW-sourced touchscreen sat nav unit with MP3 and iPod connection, which is very easy to use and sounds excellent. Value for money Yetis powered by the 108bhp-rated 2.0-litre TDI will be the cheapest to run, although official figures aren’t available for this engine.

The more powerful 138bhp 2.0 TDI is capable of just under 50mpg with CO2 emissions of 159g/km, which will cost £150 a year in road tax. Insurance and servicing costs should be reasonable too. Stereo / Sat nav Skoda is yet to come down to the Indian market, the Yeti looks as if it will come well equipped with Standard equipment (depending on trim level) includes height and reach adjustable steering wheel, daytime running lights, roof rails and electric wing mirrors. Hope So, we get it with all the goodies intact.

 

 

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