Skoda Yeti SE 1.8 TSI 4x4 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The car has a turbocharged 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder 16v 1798cc petrol engine. It produces a maximum of 158bhp and has a torque of 184 lb-ft, which provides high amounts of pull guaranteed to tackle tough road conditions. There is an effective six-speed manual gearbox in place that makes shifting gears swift and smooth.

A 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds makes it one of the fastest 4x4s available. While its strength lies in off-road driving, the car is pleasantly smooth on the road; just that the response isn’t as great as it is off-road. A top speed of 125mph enables it to compete with the best on the motorway.

Light controls and responsive steering make the Skoda Yeti SE fun to drive. It grips firmly and has controlled body movement, except in corners where there is a lot of body roll. Raised, firm suspension soaks bumps well while keeping the ride comfortable.

Road noise is well-contained, but wind noise seeps through the cabin at speed. The engine works smoothly and quietly.

The Skoda Yeti SE has a distinct hatchback styling. Dimensions of 4223mmm x1793mm x 1691mm give it an imposing size. It has five doors, five seats, and large windows that give it an open feel.

The Skoda Yeti SE cabin is decent. Good quality materials are used and the soft-touch dash is classy. The interior layout is also good. Controls are easy to locate and pedals are well-positioned.

Every meaningful equipment is included as standard in this model. This includes power steering, stability control, central locking, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control, rear-parking sensors, driver airbags, passenger airbags, front side airbags, alarm, immobiliser, MP3 connectivity and CD player.

You can increase the amount of equipment in your car with these cost options: Bluetooth for £340, metallic paint for £440, leather seats for £1,815 and sat nav for £1,510.

There is plenty of space inside for five adults. The seats, which are set individually, are comfortable and supportive so you won’t be tired on long drives. Storage space is in good amounts, both in the cabin and boot. The glove box is huge and there is an additional compartment on the dashboard. Numerous, large door pockets are also available.

Boot size is not class-leading but it is bigger than in most rivals. You get 416 litres with the seats up and a gigantic 1760 litres with the seats down. To enjoy even more space, you can remove the seats completely. It will be a taxing job though because the seats are quite heavy.

There are plenty of steering wheel and seat adjustments to make the driver comfortable. Pedals and controls are well-positioned to make your driving experience enjoyable.

Even though the Yeti SE has only been in the market since 2011, its manufacturer, Skoda, has been around for long and has established a remarkable reliability record over the years. Overall, the Octavia is sturdy and well-constructed. The company gives a 3-year/60,000 warranty on the car for your reassurance.

Safety is another of Skoda’s strong points and in the Yeti, the car maker does not disappoint. There are all kinds of safety installations to keep you and your car safe, from seven airbags and anti-whiplash head restraints to stability control, engine immobiliser, alarm and deadlocks. Not surprising then that the car scored the highest 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP test.

Currently selling for £20,485, the Skoda Yeti SE 1.8 TSI 5dr is cheaper than rivals, yet represents well-packaged practicality and value for money. Skoda models generally hold their value well and the Yeti SE should follow suit.

A return of 35.3mpg in combined cycle is within the class range. Carbon emissions average 189g/km, which is decent for the class. You will thus pay £445 road tax in the first year and £245 every year after that, under band J. The car will not be expensive to insure, going by its insurance classification under group 17.