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Skoda Yeti 77TSI 2012 review

The big challenge for the Yeti is to gain a foothold in a cluttered market.

Most telling is VW's Tiguan 103TDI, which is only $300 more than the Skoda Yeti with the same engine. At the entry level the 77TSI Yeti is more competitive at $2200 less than the more powerful 118TSI Tiguan.

DESIGN

And there is certainly nothing abominable about its character. Styling is a standout in a world of lookalikes. It might not be the prettiest face with its bulging fog light sockets and boxy rear but it has identity.

Styling is purposeful and functional and high on versatility and maximising space. Its three-piece back seats fold and slide every which way. With near vertical sides and tailgate, the load volume is almost van-like. The interior is inviting and well laid out with familiar Volkswagen-style controls and instruments.

DRIVE

On test, a manual 77TSI was not to be fooled by its small capacity. With the help of turbocharging it punches above its weight. Power delivery is smooth and progressive with eager step-off, decent mid-range response and a relaxed touring gait.

Frugal too at 6.5 litres/100km of premium unleaded on test or the same as the 103TDI auto also on test. The official combined figures are of 6.6 litres/100km for the TSI manual and 6.7 litres/100km for the TDI auto. Slick and precise, the six-speed manual shift is a delight to use. The DSG is quick and decisive, but still shows some jerkiness on take-up and is not suited to left foot braking.

The 4-Motion system sends 90 per cent of the drive to the front wheels until slip is detected when up to 100 per cent of drive can be directed to the rear wheels. Off-road, the Yeti will clear all but the sharpest humps and cope easily with dry, rutted forestry tracks.

The chassis is well sorted with agile and confident handling, less body roll than expected of such a tall frame and a comfortable and compliant ride, at least in the base model. The wider tyres on the TDI were lumpy over secondary surfaces. Electro-hydraulic steering is well weighted and quick enough. 

VERDICT

The big challenge for the Yeti is to gain a foothold in a cluttered market.

Pricing guides

$10,493
Based on 11 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months
Lowest Price
$8,999
Highest Price
$12,900

Range and Specs

VehicleSpecsPrice*
77 TSI (4X2) 1.2L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $6,820 – 9,680 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 77 TSI (4X2) Pricing and Specs
112 TSI (4X4) 1.8L, PULP, 6 SP $7,590 – 10,670 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 112 TSI (4X4) Pricing and Specs
103 TDI (4X4) 2.0L, Diesel, 6 SP $10,230 – 13,970 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 103 TDI (4X4) Pricing and Specs
John Parry
Contributing Journalist

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Pricing Guide

$8,999

Lowest price, based on 7 car listings in the last 6 months

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Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication.  Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.