Skoda Yeti 1.2 (A) Review
24 Aug 2010|34,240 views
Fortunately, the Czech built car doesn't come with a built-in man-eating snowman but one does wonder what a little SUV crossover like that is doing with such a big name. Yeti somehow seems more appropriate for one of those extensively remodeled tundra troddling Toyota Hilux pick-ups that you see often in documentaries of Arctic explorations.
Then again, the Yeti isn't the first in the family to suffer from curious names. Some of you might recall the Roomster that was launched a couple of years back. Well, the name wasn't curious so much as silly. But the silly name aside, the Roomster received pretty positive reviews from even the great Jeremy Clarkson himself. Even though he shared the sentiment of its silly name.
If you can get past its Dr Jekyll and Hyde styling, the Roomster is a pretty good car. Most liked the versatile rear-seats that despite the car's size, is still roomy enough to fit all the family paraphernalia needed for a trip.
Now, Skoda has released the Yeti as sort of a Roomster with slightly greater ride height. No, scratch that. It's a little more than that. The Yeti once again benefits greatly from the Volkswagen ownership. Most of the car's running gear including the suspension is inherited from the Golf which makes the Yeti's handling promising.
The Czech manufacturer gains some independence by building the 1.2-litre TSI powerplant used in the Yeti and Fabia on its own from its historic factory in Mladá Boleslav.
Then again, the Yeti isn't the first in the family to suffer from curious names. Some of you might recall the Roomster that was launched a couple of years back. Well, the name wasn't curious so much as silly. But the silly name aside, the Roomster received pretty positive reviews from even the great Jeremy Clarkson himself. Even though he shared the sentiment of its silly name.
If you can get past its Dr Jekyll and Hyde styling, the Roomster is a pretty good car. Most liked the versatile rear-seats that despite the car's size, is still roomy enough to fit all the family paraphernalia needed for a trip.
Now, Skoda has released the Yeti as sort of a Roomster with slightly greater ride height. No, scratch that. It's a little more than that. The Yeti once again benefits greatly from the Volkswagen ownership. Most of the car's running gear including the suspension is inherited from the Golf which makes the Yeti's handling promising.
The Czech manufacturer gains some independence by building the 1.2-litre TSI powerplant used in the Yeti and Fabia on its own from its historic factory in Mladá Boleslav.
 |
Exterior
Thankfully, the design boffins at Skoda have decided to stick with something more conventional this time with the Yeti. It does fortunately look the part of a SUV-crossover without the same Frankenstein design of the Roomster.
In the front, the Skoda makes an impression with the brand constant vertically slatted grille where atop rests a chrome insert and the prominent Czech brand's imprint. Though the design is an improvement over the Roomster, I'm personally not too sure about the way the front fascia has been designed with the addition of those fog lights. Practical as they are, placing them up high just below the headlights have made them look like an afterthought.
On a whole, the Yeti creates the impression of an SUV fairly well with its chunky bumpers and rubbing strips. I particularly love the rugged wheels fitted despite their conservative dimensions of just 16 inches. They do however roll over almost anything thanks to the Yeti's commanding ride height.
 |
Interior
Hop into the interior and you'll immediately appreciate the commanding position. The driving position would be a welcome feature for the ladies who feel empowered with a high driving perspective. The seats give excellent support for the inevitable driving trips up North in this car. The perfect driving position is availed through the rake and reach adjustable steering so getting comfy in here won't be an issue. The moon roof in the Yeti lends a certain airiness to the cabin that only a large glass roof can. Allowing much of the natural light into the cabin during the day with the perforated roof lining. In the night, your passengers will love the romantic ambience and the ability to count stars on scenic drives down Changi Coast Road.
Beyond the steering lies the familiar instrument panel that we've seen before in other Skoda models. However there're no complaints as the dials are clearly defined in day or night with the markings backlit in white.
Despite the lack of steering mounted audio controls, the audio deck on the centre console is mounted close enough for the driver without having to reach for it. Same goes for the climate controls that are intuitive and easy to use. The audio system supplied here will stand up to most listener's demands especially with the AUX-in feature. Buttons on the audio system and the rest of the interior give tactile feedback giving the impression that it'll stand up to years of use.
The rear bench in the Yeti will sit three though two would be recommended for longer journeys. Legroom in the rear is comfortable even for tall passengers like myself. With just two passengers, the centre backrest can be unfolded to avail more cup holders and double as an arm rest.
Hop into the interior and you'll immediately appreciate the commanding position. The driving position would be a welcome feature for the ladies who feel empowered with a high driving perspective. The seats give excellent support for the inevitable driving trips up North in this car. The perfect driving position is availed through the rake and reach adjustable steering so getting comfy in here won't be an issue. The moon roof in the Yeti lends a certain airiness to the cabin that only a large glass roof can. Allowing much of the natural light into the cabin during the day with the perforated roof lining. In the night, your passengers will love the romantic ambience and the ability to count stars on scenic drives down Changi Coast Road.
Beyond the steering lies the familiar instrument panel that we've seen before in other Skoda models. However there're no complaints as the dials are clearly defined in day or night with the markings backlit in white.
Despite the lack of steering mounted audio controls, the audio deck on the centre console is mounted close enough for the driver without having to reach for it. Same goes for the climate controls that are intuitive and easy to use. The audio system supplied here will stand up to most listener's demands especially with the AUX-in feature. Buttons on the audio system and the rest of the interior give tactile feedback giving the impression that it'll stand up to years of use.
The rear bench in the Yeti will sit three though two would be recommended for longer journeys. Legroom in the rear is comfortable even for tall passengers like myself. With just two passengers, the centre backrest can be unfolded to avail more cup holders and double as an arm rest.
Boot capacity in the Yeti is a main selling point with 405 litres of space available. Even more volume can be availed with the VarioFlex system that allows individual rear seats to be folded or removed completely when priority lies with maximizing cargo capacity. With the seats completely removed, the Yeti takes on a van-like capacity of 1760 litres. A lifting tailgate allows bulky items to be loaded easily into the cargo area. Besides the variable cargo capacity, there're cubby holes under the floorboard for a variety of knick-knacks or stuff you'd like to keep away from prying eyes.
Overall the build quality of the interior is flawless benefitting from the same fit and finish enjoyed by all the products under the Volkswagen umbrella.
The Drive
The Yeti's party piece is its 1.2-litre TSI heart. Despite the humble capacity, the 'little engine that can' never seems out of breath within city speeds. Even on the expressways, the car manages to execute overtakes without much delay.
The car's 105bhp and 175Nm of torque is mated to Volkswagen's 7-speed DSG gearbox as used in the Golf. Though gearchanges are smooth, due to the engine's narrow power band of 1500-3500rpm, the car seems to struggle to find the right gear at times.
While testing the Yeti, I discovered a wonderful stretch of road along…hmm…nevermind. I think I'll keep that a secret. But I will tell you that the coniferous trees that line either side of this road brings to mind the rally stages you find in the forests of Germany. The only thing lacking are the white tops that will complete the picturesque image. The quiet strip of twisting tarmac provided the perfect venue to discover the Yeti's rather pleasant road holding qualities.
Overall the build quality of the interior is flawless benefitting from the same fit and finish enjoyed by all the products under the Volkswagen umbrella.
The Drive
The Yeti's party piece is its 1.2-litre TSI heart. Despite the humble capacity, the 'little engine that can' never seems out of breath within city speeds. Even on the expressways, the car manages to execute overtakes without much delay.
The car's 105bhp and 175Nm of torque is mated to Volkswagen's 7-speed DSG gearbox as used in the Golf. Though gearchanges are smooth, due to the engine's narrow power band of 1500-3500rpm, the car seems to struggle to find the right gear at times.
While testing the Yeti, I discovered a wonderful stretch of road along…hmm…nevermind. I think I'll keep that a secret. But I will tell you that the coniferous trees that line either side of this road brings to mind the rally stages you find in the forests of Germany. The only thing lacking are the white tops that will complete the picturesque image. The quiet strip of twisting tarmac provided the perfect venue to discover the Yeti's rather pleasant road holding qualities.
 |
Diving into a bend at 60kmh, the Yeti did give some body roll but it is much less than what you would expect from a vehicle with such elevated ride height. Not only was it far from wallowy, it kept its composure through turn after turn.
The Yeti might not be an all out off-roader being front wheel drive and all, the elevated ride height does make it easier to drive through forest trails or wade through urban floods that occur once in 50 years. Despite the lack of a 4WD system, the Yeti still managed to claw its way up inclined gravel trails on its front paws alone.
The ride too was rather compliant both while cruising on expressways and driving on smaller roads. No doubt helped by the longer suspension travel.
The Yeti might not be an all out off-roader being front wheel drive and all, the elevated ride height does make it easier to drive through forest trails or wade through urban floods that occur once in 50 years. Despite the lack of a 4WD system, the Yeti still managed to claw its way up inclined gravel trails on its front paws alone.
The ride too was rather compliant both while cruising on expressways and driving on smaller roads. No doubt helped by the longer suspension travel.
Conclusion
The Yeti combines the practicality of an SUV with the economy of a hatchback. Economy figures stand at an impressive 15.6km/L despite the less than aerodynamic proportions.
Versatility of its interior also provides a convincing argument for the Yeti as a practical family car.
Unfortunately, the Yeti arrives at a turbulent COE period and thus prices for the car is high at $112,800 (with COE).
However despite the price, the car still makes a convincing choice with its practicality, economy and versatility.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Yeti combines the practicality of an SUV with the economy of a hatchback. Economy figures stand at an impressive 15.6km/L despite the less than aerodynamic proportions.
Versatility of its interior also provides a convincing argument for the Yeti as a practical family car.
Unfortunately, the Yeti arrives at a turbulent COE period and thus prices for the car is high at $112,800 (with COE).
However despite the price, the car still makes a convincing choice with its practicality, economy and versatility.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Fortunately, the Czech built car doesn't come with a built-in man-eating snowman but one does wonder what a little SUV crossover like that is doing with such a big name. Yeti somehow seems more appropriate for one of those extensively remodeled tundra troddling Toyota Hilux pick-ups that you see often in documentaries of Arctic explorations.
Then again, the Yeti isn't the first in the family to suffer from curious names. Some of you might recall the Roomster that was launched a couple of years back. Well, the name wasn't curious so much as silly. But the silly name aside, the Roomster received pretty positive reviews from even the great Jeremy Clarkson himself. Even though he shared the sentiment of its silly name.
If you can get past its Dr Jekyll and Hyde styling, the Roomster is a pretty good car. Most liked the versatile rear-seats that despite the car's size, is still roomy enough to fit all the family paraphernalia needed for a trip.
Now, Skoda has released the Yeti as sort of a Roomster with slightly greater ride height. No, scratch that. It's a little more than that. The Yeti once again benefits greatly from the Volkswagen ownership. Most of the car's running gear including the suspension is inherited from the Golf which makes the Yeti's handling promising.
The Czech manufacturer gains some independence by building the 1.2-litre TSI powerplant used in the Yeti and Fabia on its own from its historic factory in Mladá Boleslav.
Then again, the Yeti isn't the first in the family to suffer from curious names. Some of you might recall the Roomster that was launched a couple of years back. Well, the name wasn't curious so much as silly. But the silly name aside, the Roomster received pretty positive reviews from even the great Jeremy Clarkson himself. Even though he shared the sentiment of its silly name.
If you can get past its Dr Jekyll and Hyde styling, the Roomster is a pretty good car. Most liked the versatile rear-seats that despite the car's size, is still roomy enough to fit all the family paraphernalia needed for a trip.
Now, Skoda has released the Yeti as sort of a Roomster with slightly greater ride height. No, scratch that. It's a little more than that. The Yeti once again benefits greatly from the Volkswagen ownership. Most of the car's running gear including the suspension is inherited from the Golf which makes the Yeti's handling promising.
The Czech manufacturer gains some independence by building the 1.2-litre TSI powerplant used in the Yeti and Fabia on its own from its historic factory in Mladá Boleslav.
|
Exterior
Thankfully, the design boffins at Skoda have decided to stick with something more conventional this time with the Yeti. It does fortunately look the part of a SUV-crossover without the same Frankenstein design of the Roomster.
In the front, the Skoda makes an impression with the brand constant vertically slatted grille where atop rests a chrome insert and the prominent Czech brand's imprint. Though the design is an improvement over the Roomster, I'm personally not too sure about the way the front fascia has been designed with the addition of those fog lights. Practical as they are, placing them up high just below the headlights have made them look like an afterthought.
On a whole, the Yeti creates the impression of an SUV fairly well with its chunky bumpers and rubbing strips. I particularly love the rugged wheels fitted despite their conservative dimensions of just 16 inches. They do however roll over almost anything thanks to the Yeti's commanding ride height.
|
Interior
Hop into the interior and you'll immediately appreciate the commanding position. The driving position would be a welcome feature for the ladies who feel empowered with a high driving perspective. The seats give excellent support for the inevitable driving trips up North in this car. The perfect driving position is availed through the rake and reach adjustable steering so getting comfy in here won't be an issue. The moon roof in the Yeti lends a certain airiness to the cabin that only a large glass roof can. Allowing much of the natural light into the cabin during the day with the perforated roof lining. In the night, your passengers will love the romantic ambience and the ability to count stars on scenic drives down Changi Coast Road.
Beyond the steering lies the familiar instrument panel that we've seen before in other Skoda models. However there're no complaints as the dials are clearly defined in day or night with the markings backlit in white.
Despite the lack of steering mounted audio controls, the audio deck on the centre console is mounted close enough for the driver without having to reach for it. Same goes for the climate controls that are intuitive and easy to use. The audio system supplied here will stand up to most listener's demands especially with the AUX-in feature. Buttons on the audio system and the rest of the interior give tactile feedback giving the impression that it'll stand up to years of use.
The rear bench in the Yeti will sit three though two would be recommended for longer journeys. Legroom in the rear is comfortable even for tall passengers like myself. With just two passengers, the centre backrest can be unfolded to avail more cup holders and double as an arm rest.
Hop into the interior and you'll immediately appreciate the commanding position. The driving position would be a welcome feature for the ladies who feel empowered with a high driving perspective. The seats give excellent support for the inevitable driving trips up North in this car. The perfect driving position is availed through the rake and reach adjustable steering so getting comfy in here won't be an issue. The moon roof in the Yeti lends a certain airiness to the cabin that only a large glass roof can. Allowing much of the natural light into the cabin during the day with the perforated roof lining. In the night, your passengers will love the romantic ambience and the ability to count stars on scenic drives down Changi Coast Road.
Beyond the steering lies the familiar instrument panel that we've seen before in other Skoda models. However there're no complaints as the dials are clearly defined in day or night with the markings backlit in white.
Despite the lack of steering mounted audio controls, the audio deck on the centre console is mounted close enough for the driver without having to reach for it. Same goes for the climate controls that are intuitive and easy to use. The audio system supplied here will stand up to most listener's demands especially with the AUX-in feature. Buttons on the audio system and the rest of the interior give tactile feedback giving the impression that it'll stand up to years of use.
The rear bench in the Yeti will sit three though two would be recommended for longer journeys. Legroom in the rear is comfortable even for tall passengers like myself. With just two passengers, the centre backrest can be unfolded to avail more cup holders and double as an arm rest.
Boot capacity in the Yeti is a main selling point with 405 litres of space available. Even more volume can be availed with the VarioFlex system that allows individual rear seats to be folded or removed completely when priority lies with maximizing cargo capacity. With the seats completely removed, the Yeti takes on a van-like capacity of 1760 litres. A lifting tailgate allows bulky items to be loaded easily into the cargo area. Besides the variable cargo capacity, there're cubby holes under the floorboard for a variety of knick-knacks or stuff you'd like to keep away from prying eyes.
Overall the build quality of the interior is flawless benefitting from the same fit and finish enjoyed by all the products under the Volkswagen umbrella.
The Drive
The Yeti's party piece is its 1.2-litre TSI heart. Despite the humble capacity, the 'little engine that can' never seems out of breath within city speeds. Even on the expressways, the car manages to execute overtakes without much delay.
The car's 105bhp and 175Nm of torque is mated to Volkswagen's 7-speed DSG gearbox as used in the Golf. Though gearchanges are smooth, due to the engine's narrow power band of 1500-3500rpm, the car seems to struggle to find the right gear at times.
While testing the Yeti, I discovered a wonderful stretch of road along…hmm…nevermind. I think I'll keep that a secret. But I will tell you that the coniferous trees that line either side of this road brings to mind the rally stages you find in the forests of Germany. The only thing lacking are the white tops that will complete the picturesque image. The quiet strip of twisting tarmac provided the perfect venue to discover the Yeti's rather pleasant road holding qualities.
Overall the build quality of the interior is flawless benefitting from the same fit and finish enjoyed by all the products under the Volkswagen umbrella.
The Drive
The Yeti's party piece is its 1.2-litre TSI heart. Despite the humble capacity, the 'little engine that can' never seems out of breath within city speeds. Even on the expressways, the car manages to execute overtakes without much delay.
The car's 105bhp and 175Nm of torque is mated to Volkswagen's 7-speed DSG gearbox as used in the Golf. Though gearchanges are smooth, due to the engine's narrow power band of 1500-3500rpm, the car seems to struggle to find the right gear at times.
While testing the Yeti, I discovered a wonderful stretch of road along…hmm…nevermind. I think I'll keep that a secret. But I will tell you that the coniferous trees that line either side of this road brings to mind the rally stages you find in the forests of Germany. The only thing lacking are the white tops that will complete the picturesque image. The quiet strip of twisting tarmac provided the perfect venue to discover the Yeti's rather pleasant road holding qualities.
|
Diving into a bend at 60kmh, the Yeti did give some body roll but it is much less than what you would expect from a vehicle with such elevated ride height. Not only was it far from wallowy, it kept its composure through turn after turn.
The Yeti might not be an all out off-roader being front wheel drive and all, the elevated ride height does make it easier to drive through forest trails or wade through urban floods that occur once in 50 years. Despite the lack of a 4WD system, the Yeti still managed to claw its way up inclined gravel trails on its front paws alone.
The ride too was rather compliant both while cruising on expressways and driving on smaller roads. No doubt helped by the longer suspension travel.
The Yeti might not be an all out off-roader being front wheel drive and all, the elevated ride height does make it easier to drive through forest trails or wade through urban floods that occur once in 50 years. Despite the lack of a 4WD system, the Yeti still managed to claw its way up inclined gravel trails on its front paws alone.
The ride too was rather compliant both while cruising on expressways and driving on smaller roads. No doubt helped by the longer suspension travel.
Conclusion
The Yeti combines the practicality of an SUV with the economy of a hatchback. Economy figures stand at an impressive 15.6km/L despite the less than aerodynamic proportions.
Versatility of its interior also provides a convincing argument for the Yeti as a practical family car.
Unfortunately, the Yeti arrives at a turbulent COE period and thus prices for the car is high at $112,800 (with COE).
However despite the price, the car still makes a convincing choice with its practicality, economy and versatility.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Yeti combines the practicality of an SUV with the economy of a hatchback. Economy figures stand at an impressive 15.6km/L despite the less than aerodynamic proportions.
Versatility of its interior also provides a convincing argument for the Yeti as a practical family car.
Unfortunately, the Yeti arrives at a turbulent COE period and thus prices for the car is high at $112,800 (with COE).
However despite the price, the car still makes a convincing choice with its practicality, economy and versatility.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
Car Information
Skoda Yeti 1.2 Active TSI (A)
CAT A|Petrol|15.6km/L
Horsepower
78kW (104 bhp)
Torque
175 Nm
Acceleration
12sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Skoda Yeti
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