Skoda Auto India has officially launched its first compact SUV, the Yeti. The prices for the Ambiente variant is Rs 15.40lakh while the top-end variant Elegance is priced at Rs 16.62lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.
The Yeti is built on the same platform as the Skoda Laura (code PQ35), and that for a start means it has a highly sophisticated all-independent suspension. Skoda has given this car a length of just 4.2 metres. As a result, squeezing into tight parking spaces is no sweat at all.
The Yeti is powered by a 2.0-litre common-rail diesel engine coupled with six-speed manual gearbox. This new-generation 140bhp motor is the same as the one that powers the Laura and that gives it a very impressive turn of foot.
For rear passenger space, Skoda has taken a leaf from tall boy hatchbacks and has used vertical space to very good effect. Using the adjustable seating, you can slide the rear seats back and fit one six-footer comfortably behind another. The front seats are as large and comfortable you’d expect of any Skoda, door-shut and build quality are tank-like and there are plenty of high-quality bits on the dash.
The top-of-the-line Elegance variant gets added goodies like Hill descent control system, front Park assist, front side airbags plus curtain air bags both at the front and rear. It also gets LCD TFT screen, dual zone climate control, steering wheel mounted audio control and six-CD changer - the Ambiente comes with single-CD changer.
If you are looking for a traditional SUV, where the price-to-size ratio is paramount, the Yeti is not for you. What this compact SUV has, however, is the appeal of an off-roader with the convenience of a car built in. It’s a car that’s comfortable off-road, and a 4x4 that’s even more comfortable on it.
Checkout our review of the upcoming Skoda Yeti