After seven years of construction, a car is slowly reaching retirement age. Also the one that appeared in summer 2009 Skoda Yeti is already in the fall of its model cycle. However, you hardly notice it: He is still one of the best in his class - at least if you accept a small disadvantage.
In a way, the Yeti is one of the first mini SUVs. Even if the wave of small crossovers did not build up until a few years later and the Skoda technically belongs to the compact class, it shows the typical properties of the current boom class. Namely comparatively cheap prices (from 19.690 euros) and city-compatible dimensions (4,22 meters). In addition, there is a very fast driving behavior: If you did not sit a little higher and did not look at the angular bonnet, you would imagine yourself at the wheel of a nimble compact car. No trace of SUV-typical sluggishness. The precise steering conveys agility on the country road, the small turning circle does the same in the city. The rather tightly tuned chassis also matches the nimble overall character, which ensures reliable driving behavior at all times. The powerful 2,0-liter diesel (110 kW / 150 hp) fits well in the test car, even if it develops a great thirst at high speeds. If 6,5 liters are enough for him when driving calmly, it will quickly reach eight. Overall, there can be no question of signs of aging, instead the Yeti is decidedly youthful.
The Skoda SUV also holds up well in the interior, where old age is often noticed particularly quickly. Thanks to the takeover from the Golf VII, the infotainment system is up-to-date, the cockpit layout corresponds to the current corporate style that has matured over the years, and the choice of materials and workmanship have always been good to very good. Scratch-sensitive hard plastic can only be found in more hidden places, while prominent interior parts are soft back-foamed or, as in the “Laurin & Klement” version of the test car, even covered with leather. In general, the cockpit is convincing in the highest line with a noble appearance that one would not have expected of the price-sensitive VW offshoot for a long time. The fact that the Yeti is older is particularly noticeable in the lack of modern assistance systems. Newer helpers for collision warning, emergency braking or lane changes are not available. The gaps will only close with the new edition, which is due in 2017 at the earliest.
The other small yeti weakness has nothing to do with age, but lies in the concept. Because the small external dimensions, which have a positive effect in city traffic and driving behavior, naturally have a negative impact on the available space. Especially in the form of a rather small trunk. The compartment holds just 405 liters with full seating - enough for the average weekend shopping, but less than in the average compact SUV. Anyone who has to transport a slightly larger stroller will push the Skoda to its limits. This is compensated for by a variable back seat that can not only be moved, but also completely expanded. In extreme cases, the Skoda can even become a loading master - but dismantling is too cumbersome for everyday use. It's a good thing that the all-wheel-drive version can pull up to 2.100 kg in the trailer if necessary.
As a total package, the Yeti, despite its advanced age, is still a very good choice for anyone who does not buy an SUV just because of the space available. With the other advantages such as the elevated sitting position, the modern styling and (in the case of the 4 × 4 versions) high level of poor road capability, he can fully offer. Combined with quite jagged driving behavior and high maneuverability. So if you are looking for a small but adult SUV, you should strike before the Yeti is likely to grow significantly in size with the upcoming model change.