Nuggets: Little Monster

Little Monster
So what is the Yeti? Skoda rummaged through the VW group parts bin, picked up the best bits of the Laura (and Golf’s) PQ 35 platform and then liberally helped itself to bits and bobs from the Superb’s interior. Throw in some off-road gear from the Scout 4x4 and the practicality that’s a Skoda hallmark and you have a rather interesting SUV with an even more interesting name.

Equally interesting is the styling that will polarise opinion, but which I have taken quite a liking to, especially the crossover cues, the soft nose with the fog lamps helping themselves to a big bite of the headlamps, the pumped up wheel arches and the chunky plastic cladding with aluminium-effect skid plates hinting at some mud-plugging action. The Skoda family grille has also been integrated far better (unlike recent attempts with the Laura and Superb) and there’s a distinct European character in the bold detailing and immaculate finish.

Overall, the Yeti is quite a sensible, even desirable car, but what might not work in her favour is pricing, expected to start at Rs. 12 lakh. A more realistic price would be Rs. 10 lakh for the two-wheel drive Yeti at that price it could build a whole new niche in India, offering an alternative to those looking for a modicum of go-anywhere ability with refinement, practicality and funky modern styling, but none of the bundle of compromises that the current crop — Scorpio, Safari and Endeavour — bring to the table.
Sirish Chandran,
Editor, Overdrive
Full review on overdrive.co.in