Road test: Skoda Yeti

When Skoda launched the revised Yeti line-up last year, the 4X4 Outdoor model became a bit of a star. Skoda let us loose on a muddy farm and it performed brilliantly.

I’ve been running the Elegance Greenline 1.6 model, and while 4X4 was tempting, you don’t really need all that extra traction in town, and it swallows more petrol.

So far, the two-wheel-drive 1.6 TDI has impressed enormously. It’s about as practical a London car as you can get, offering that great combination of space for five people and a usefully large (square) boot, all housed within a compact, easy-to-park package. The ride is nicely pliant and, as the seating position for driver and passengers is relatively elevated, you get a really good view out.

Best of all, though, is the steering. Too light and it robs the car of “feel”. Too heavy and parking’s a chore. The Skoda has it just right and it boasts a great, tight, turning circle too; ideal for nipping around London.

On the open road the car is a surprise; 105PS isn’t a lot of power to play with, but on winding A and B roads Yeti comes alive and there’s no need for lots of engine revs either.

Skoda Yeti
Elegance Greenline 1.6 TDI CR DPF 105PS 5G manual
Price: £21,475;
Top speed: 109 mph 0-62 mph: 12.1 secs;
CO2: 119g/km