Skoda Yeti - don't worry, it's just cosmetics
Since the start of production in 2009, 281 Skoda Yeti vehicles have been sold to date. Therefore, during the facelift, the designers did not experiment and focused on proven solutions. This is evolution, not revolution.
It is undeniable that the biggest change has been in the front apron - the characteristic round headlights have been abandoned. The new headlights, optionally available as bi-xenon (and with integrated LED strips), fit in with the design of current models, especially the Rapid and Octavia. The unification of the design also required an upgraded grille and placement of the fog lights lower than its predecessor.
At the rear we also find solutions typical for Skoda - there is a triangular stamping on the tailgate, and the lights (optional with LEDs) represent the letter C. The dimensions have not changed compared to its predecessor and are 4222 1691, 1793 and . millimeters (length, height and width).
For the first time in the history of this model, two, as the manufacturer calls it, design lines will be offered. However, let's not expect huge differences between them. In the "standard" Yeti, the bumpers, side moldings and door sills are painted in body color, while in the Outdoor version these elements are painted black. You can also recognize this version by the silvery mirrors.
The color palette has not been forgotten. When ordering the Yeti, we will be able to choose from four new colors: White Moonlight White, Green Jungle Green, Gray Metal Grey, and Brown Magnetic Brown. Only the latter distinguishes the special version of Laurin & Klement, and in total there are already 15 colors in the offer that can be worn on the Skoda SUV.
An evolution has also taken place in the interior. A new three-spoke steering wheel has been installed and upholstery patterns have been updated. As you might guess, the cabin was mostly transferred from other, already well-known models of the brand. On the one hand, this is a plus, because it is difficult to adapt to the ergonomics of already proven solutions, on the other hand, however, I expected more drawing from designers. And this one was limited to three trims and chrome handles.
The VarioFlex interior arrangement system present in the predecessor came to the Yeti unchanged. The outer part of the seat slides back and forth and even crosswise. Each of the three second-row seats can be folded down or removed from the car, thanks to which we increase the cargo space from 510 to 1760 liters. The optional folding passenger seat backrest is useful when transporting long items. An LED flashlight and a waterproof mat in the trunk, well ... "Just smarties."
There is no novelty under the hood of the Skoda Yeti. The well-known turbocharged petrol engines 1.2 TSI (105 hp), 1.4 TSI (122 hp) and 1.8 TSI (160 hp) will be offered. Among the diesel engines, the 1.6 TDI with 105 horsepower is in the lead. The larger two-litre engine can have one of three power options: 110 hp, 140 hp. or 170 hp Depending on the engine, the car has a five- or six-speed manual transmission, automatic transmission enthusiasts will choose DSG, with each transmission capable of transmitting drive to the front or all wheels (fifth generation Haldex clutch).
Talking about Yeti, one cannot fail to mention the off-road track prepared by Skoda at the time of the presentation. Considering that the ground clearance is 180 millimeters, it can be assumed that the capabilities of this SUV are ... limited. However, as it turned out, the machine can do much more than it might seem. First of all, thanks to the 4×4 drive. In everyday driving, only the front end is driven, and in the event of a skid, the Haldex system sends the right amount of power to the rear axle, depending on engine speed, wheel rotation and many other parameters.
In muddy ground, an electronic differential lock will help us. Wheels that have lost traction will brake and the vehicle will move smoothly, regardless of the surface. Every Yeti 4×4 will have a descent assist system - once activated, the car will attempt to maintain a constant speed on its own.
Of course, we find a lot more electronics on board. Skoda has equipped its car with a rear view camera for the first time. The rear view, however, is not displayed in the mirror, as is the case with competitors, but traditionally on the navigation screen. Also new is the KESSY car (keyless start and exit system). The latest improvement is an updated parking assistant, thanks to which the driver can use the gas and brake to position the car both parallel and transversely.
Skoda offers five equipment packages: Easy, Active, Street, Ambition and Elegance. The basic version is characterized by such accessories as power steering, ESP, ABS with emergency braking assist, front and side airbags, two 12 V sockets, VarioFlex interior equipment, central locking and roof rails. A Yeti with a 1.2 engine in this configuration will cost us 64 zlotys (including a discount of 950 zlotys).
The Elegance version closes the price list, which as standard has, among other things, 17-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlights with LED strip, Climatronic automatic air conditioning, on-board computer, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control. and electrically operated and folding mirrors. For such an instance with a two-liter diesel engine, 4 × 4 drive and a DSG gearbox, you will have to pay 119. Skoda also offers free equipment packages. Thanks to this, we can equip our car with heated front seats or the Amundsen + navigation system free of charge.
Skoda Yeti before restyling was not a sales leader on the Polish market. The podium was taken by competitors from Japan or even Korea. Although after cosmetic changes the car will try to fight for customers, in our country it may simply fail. That is why the brand intends to attack China - soon we will see Yeti with an extended wheelbase.
