The Skoda Yeti is one of the funniest looking cars released over the past 5 years. Unlike many VAG cars which are cloned by Seat, VW, Audi and Skoda, the Yeti is a model in its own right and no other German car manufacturer offers anything quite like it. Is that a good thing?
Skoda Yeti TDI 4×4
Well, the Yeti certainly offers motorists a high level of exclusivity. A crossover, it’s available in front-wheel drive and also 4-wheel drive in higher specifications, but the best seller has always been the front-wheel drive version. The 1.6 TDI engine in our car is ideally suited to the Yeti. It’s economical, it has usable torque in everyday situations, and although it won’t smoke any tarmac between the lights, in the real world it’s an admirable performer.
Along with the 1.6-litre TDI engine, there is also a 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI to choose from. The TSI engines offer faster pace than the diesel units as well as a higher level of refinement but they’re not as good on fuel. They will also lose their value quicker than TDI equipped cars.
To look at you may discount the Skoda Yeti as a practical family car that isn’t fun to drive. You’d be wrong. With sharp steering, perky performance from this diesel engine and good body control the Yeti is surprisingly good fun to throw around corners on a country road. It drives in many ways like the Ford Fiesta – subtle and quiet when needed, but road hugging when wanted. It is this combination that has won over many motorists already.
The cheapest 1.6 TDI Yeti money can buy is the 1.6 TDI CR 105 S Greenline II. This will return 61.4 mpg with an impressive C02 rating of 119 g/km. Air conditioning, electric windows, a CD player, alloy wheels, front fog lights and passenger and side air bags come as standard on this model.
Overall, the Skoda Yeti TDI is a rather intriguing car that we recommend to motorists who seek something a little bit different. Although its looks are a little hit and miss, interior space is excellent and the 1.6-litre TDI engine powering our test car was splendid, with lots of torque and none of the harshness associated with oil burning lumps. Some buyers may prefer the 1.2 TSI engine, but for motorway use, the extra capacity of the 1.6 diesel proves that there is no replacement for displacement.
