The 'compact' 4 x 4 market is already a tough place for car manufacturers to compete. The Honda CR-V, Ford Kuga and Toyota Rav 4 have all successfully blended rugged 4x4 driving with the looks and driving experience that modern drivers want.
But the Skoda Yeti isn't overshadowed by it's more established competition. Starting at just £13,750 (GBP) for the entry level 1.2. petrol turbocharged model, the Yeti is significantly cheaper than it's rivals. The 1.2 petrol and 1.8 petrol versions offer a smooth and refined drive... something that Skoda were no doubt keen to get right targeting this fickle market.
In it's diesel format the top-spec Skoda Yeti is 4WD 2.0 TDI which comes with a whopping 170BHP, for this performance you'll be looking to pay at least £21,500. However the cheaper 110 BHP engine offers an elegant drive and actually feels smoother than the 140BHP engine.
The Skoda cleverly engages it's 4 wheel drive system automatically when the car senses that condition warrant the extra traction and manouevrability of a 4x4. In early tests this automatic switching worked effortlessly and provided a safe and comfortable drive in all conditions.
The Yeti really scores some major points over it's rivals with a wide variety of options designed to increase the flexibility and functionality of the vehicle. The 3 rear seats fold down to increase luggage space or can be removed completely to free up room for long journeys and driving holidays.
For those that like the look of the car and it's performance but don't need the additional performance of a 4x4 there is also an option for 2 wheel drive. The 2 wheel drive versions also offer better fuel economy than their 4wd counterpart.
For those that need more room than a standard estate but don't want to opt for a 4 x 4, a longstanding favourite of UK road users is the Nissan Qashai which effortlessly blends estate driving with a raised driver profile to increase visibility for drivers. The Qashqai also offers greater fuel economy and performance than a Yeti or any of the other 4x4's listed.
RW Goldaline writes about a number of issues facing road users. She also writes regularly for tech blogs and you can view more of her work at Sony KDL a website dedicated to the leading range of LCD TVs from Sony
