Skoda, the Czech car maker entered the SUV market in 2009 with Skoda Yeti. The company has recently launched this SUV’s facelift version. Its compact dimensions make this SUV good to drive on city roads, as well as on highways and hilly areas. Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors about this SUV.
Engine
Skoda did not make much of mechanical changes in Yeti’s latest version. Engine options offered with Yeti are perfect to help this SUV while making its way through city’s traffic and through terrain. You can choose 2.0 TDI CR with 5 speed manual transmission gearbox or opt for 2.0 TDI CR 4×4 engine with 6 speed manual transmission gearbox. Both models offer mileage of around 17 KMPL.
Push start button for ignition has eliminated the need to carry keys. Electromagnetic, three spoke power steering offers good control. Both models offer 180 mm ground clearance. User reviews suggest that Yeti 4×4’s advanced Haldex clutch offers great responsiveness. Perhaps, Yeti is the only SUV sold in India that is small in size, offers sharp clutch, and has powerful engine.
Braking Suspension and Safety
Potholes and bumps are perfectly absorbed by the suspension system. McPherson suspension system manages front axle, while rear suspension is managed by multi-element axle combined with torsion stabilizer.
This little monster offers “off road button”. Once pressed, the SUV starts using anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic differential lock, traction control system, hill descent control system, etc. Yeti also offers other impressive safety features like six airbags, tire pressure monitoring, anti-lock braking system with EBD, electronic stability control, lighting assistant, and front plus rear parking assist system. Most of the user reviews suggest that people were expecting Yeti’s automatic version in September 2014. But Skoda has recently made it clear that it does not plan to introduce Yeti’s automatic version any time soon.
Interior
Black and brown combination in Yeti’s dual tone interior looks perfect. Wood decor also manages to attract attention. Seats are covered with world class leather covers. Even the hand brake lever, gear lever, and steering wheel are covered with leather.
Dual zone air conditioning is perfectly controlled by climate control system.
To assure some comfort and convenience in cabin, Skoda has designed bottle holders in the front and rear, along with several types of storage compartments. Boot offers 416 liters of space, which seems enough for bags, and luggage. Plus, rear seats are foldable and removable. So you can easily make additional space for those camping bags. The main attraction for drivers is its driver seat that is 12 way electrically adjustable. Lumbar support can also be adjusted for front seats.
Its 6.5 inch touchscreen music system with 6-CD changer will impress you for sure! You can also connect SD card, USB device, smart phone, iPod and other Bluetooth enabled devices with this player. Once this player is connected with your phone, you can also use phone features on this system. Audio and phone system can also be controlled with switches mounted on steering wheel.
Skoda suggests, this cabin is good enough for five people. But user reviews, as well as car and bike experts claim the space is good enough only for four people.
Exterior
When it comes to exterior, the change in Yeti’s new models is clearly visible. Most of the car lovers will easily notice the SUV’s flatter, bolder grille and headlamps.
Headlamps consist of bi-xenon projector lighting, and daytime running LED lights strip is fitted below the headlamp. The Skoda logo sits in the grill, and its angular family design immediately differentiate the latest version from old models. Large contrasting bumper extension adds that “off-roader” element in SUV’s design. The 4×4 model and 4×2 can be easily differentiated due to minor differences in design, especially, designs for alloy wheels.
Competition
When compared with other sports utilities like Mahindra XUV500 and Renault Duster, Yeti’s cabin space, and price are seen as negative aspects. But there are many positives. User reviews and SUV experts suggest that Skoda Yeti performs better than Mahindra XUV while driving off road. Experts also suggest that Yeti’s steering is progressive, better balanced, and precise compared to others. Yeti’s 4×2 model and 4×4 model comes with price tag of around Rs 18 lakhs and Rs 20 lakhs. Price depends on model that you choose, and local taxes.