Looks: Initially, we weren't taken with the Yeti's looks - somehow the car appeared quite van-like in shape. But it kind of grew on us and we actually think it's quite cute!
Practicality: a good all round, practical family car, the Yeti has all the things that you might expect from a car these days, and more. For its size, it offers ample space for a family with 2 or 3 kids and is the kind of size that you will be able to manoeuvre into most tight spaces. The boot isn't at all huge but you can actually remove one or all of the rear seats to provide maximum carrying capacity. There is also a great option to remove the middle rear seat and move the other rear seats towards each other. The option of removing the middle rear seat is also great if you need to transport something long along with 2 kids in tow (e.g. that flat-packed shelving unit from Ikea that you can never get as you always have the kids ...).
Storage: plenty of nooks and crannies for various stuff, but the boot isn't huge. You'll fit in luggage for most family trips but you'll need to watch it if you have buggies and/or cots. The roof rails offer a handy way to add a roof box if you are stuck for space.
Safety: Five star NCAP, all you could ask for. Rear side airbags are optional - if you use these make sure to have booster seats with head support (i.e. not just the bum seats). You certainly have the feeling of being in a quality car, which is reassuring. Two rear ISOFIX points on outer seats.
Running Costs: Our model was the diesel GreenLine version with really low CO2 emissions and low road tax. Frankly the fuel gauge hardly moved when we drove it. Very economical. The petrol versions consume quite a bit more and, as the price difference for the diesel isn't much (about €1,000), you should really go diesel and should probably opt for the GreenLine unless you crave power or need a 4x4.
Purchase Price: The GreenLine version that we drove was priced at just over €26,000, but you can get one with standard equipment from around €23,000. Thankfully, even the base model carries the all-important features of air conditioning and rear parking sensors, in addition to cruise control and bluetooth/handsfree connection for your phone. As an example of how much this will cost you with one of Skoda's cheap finance packages, with a deposit/trade-in of €9,000 you'll be looking at a monthly payment for 5 years of around €266, after which you'll own the car outright (correct as at time of publication).
Peace of mind: Skoda have a great reputation for quality and, as part of the Volkswagen group, you know you're buying a car from a good stable. Unfortunately, Skoda currently only offers a two-year warranty at present :(
Kids' verdict: Thumbs up! They liked the name too, and it was referred to like a family pet by the time it went back.
MummyPages verdict: As a step up from a standard family hatchback (such as a VW Golf) without gaining too much size, this car makes sense. Raised seating position and good standard equipment are definite positives too, as is the flexibility of configuration of the rear seats. Very economical.
Looking for a bigger car? See our 7 seater family car options here.
