Skoda Yeti Elegance 2.0 TDI CR 4x4 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The Yeti is a pretty good car to drive, with responsive steering being light enough to hit the corners with ease without being too light, with the body roll also being kept in check. The ride can be a little unsettled from time to time, and it also offers plenty of grip, whether you are driving on a tarmac road or making the most of its 4x4 capability. The higher driving stance of the Yeti means that visibility is good to the front and rear, while the seats and steering wheel are both fully adjustable to suit the driver.

Considering that this is a big car, the Yeti’s engine performs reasonably well, but the acceleration from 0-62mph is achieved in a slightly ponderous 12.2 seconds. The top speed of 108mph means that it isn’t particularly suited to swift motorway driving, and the cabin has plenty of engine and wind noise when driving at such speeds.

The Skoda Yeti is a distinctive looking car, with the headlight clusters and separate round lights being a particularly interesting feature of the front end, while the roof bars also add to the look. The back of the car is tidy and functional, and the hardened black plastic around the bottom of the car is typical of vehicles that boast off road capabilities. Inside the car the Yeti is quite attractive with a colourful centre console and dashboard that remains practical, and the high level of trim also being very comfortable.

Alloy wheels and leather seats are among the highlights that are included with the Elegance level of trim in the Yeti, and it also comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a CD stereo with a multi-disc changer. Cruise control and climate control are supplemented with heated seats and power folding mirrors that really do combine to make this version of the Yeti an attractive proposition.

One of the main reasons that many people will be considering a crossover like the Yeti is because of all the practicality benefits, with plenty of space in the front and back seats, and a big load space in the boot. This can be increased by folding the seats forward or removing them altogether, but these seats are quite heavy and can be difficult to remove and replace. Skoda often features highly in driver reviews for reliability, and so far the Yeti seems to follow this trend.

The Yeti is generally a very safe car, having achieved five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test, but it is disappointing to see that a curtain airbag hasn’t been included to look after passengers in the back seats. A good range of driving aids improves the stability of the car, making it safer to drive.

The Elegance level of trim may come with a lot of luxuries, but this adds significantly to the price, with this version on the market at £22,015. Those looking for a cheaper car will find that the more basic version of the Yeti is quite well equipped for a more competitive price.

The fuel efficiency of this diesel engine is quite good, delivering an average 46.3mpg. Depreciation shouldn’t be a problem when it comes to selling the car, as the Yeti holds its value quite well, and the low insurance group means that premiums shouldn’t be too extortionate either. The Yeti is supplied with the Skoda warranty package of a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty and three years’ roadside breakdown assistance.