Skoda Yeti SE Plus 2.0 TDI CR (170bhp) 4x4 5dr Car Review - March 2012

This is the largest and most powerful of the diesel engines available with the Yeti, and it does deal with this quite well. The handling is good with accurate steering that is quick to respond to the wheel, and the firm suspension helps to ensure there is very little body roll when cornering, but the down side here is that the ride never really settles down to be completely comfortable. The driving position is good offering plenty of forward and rear visibility, and the driving seat and steering wheel can both be fully adjusted to suit the driver.

The performance that accompanies this 170bhp version of the diesel engine is very good, with the acceleration from 0-62mph taking only 8.4 seconds. The top speed of 125mph is also good considering the size of the Yeti, but the cabin isn’t particularly refined with a lot of wind and road noise entering it, with the diesel engine also quite noisy when it is being worked quite hard.

The distinctive front end of the Yeti does help it to stand out from the crowd, and the round forward facing lights and the metal effect guard below the grille are interesting features. The roof bars are reminiscent of fully blown 4x4s, and the hardened plastic trim around the bottom few inches of the car does protect the metalwork when using the vehicle off road. Inside the cabin is comfortable and classy, with a dashboard that displays all the information clearly and effectively.

This version of the Yeti comes with the SE Plus level of trim, and includes a few extra luxuries such as a touch screen satellite navigation system and a CD stereo with a multi-disc changer. It also includes power seats, climate control and cruise control along with Bluetooth connectivity.

There is no doubt that many people will turn to the Skoda Yeti because it does offer a large amount of practicality, with a cabin that can accommodate five adults with no issues regarding headroom or legroom. The large boot is also very useful, while the rear seats can be folded forward or removed entirely to make a giant load space. It is worth noting that these seats can be quite heavy, and reattaching them to the car can also be a little fiddly.

The Yeti is also quite a safe car, having been awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP test. This version comes with a good range of airbags to look after occupants in the front and the back of the car, and also has a good range of driver aids to help keep all four wheels on the road. So far, the Yeti has shown good reliability too.

This version of the Skoda Yeti comes in towards the top of the Yeti range, and with the list price of £22,340, many people will want something a little bit cheaper.

The fuel efficiency isn’t too bad, with the diesel engine able to achieve an average 47.9mpg. The insurance group is quite good meaning that premiums should be reasonable, and depreciation is not too much of a factor either. The Yeti is supplied with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and also has a three year RAC membership should the Yeti develop any problems during that time.