Yeti takes another form

Skoda's local lineup for the Yeti compact SUV will include a petrol-engined, four-wheel drive model next year.

The spacious high-riding hatch impressed us during its launch a few months ago equipped with the 2.0-litre 103TDI diesel but next year Australian shoppers will be able to choose from two four-wheel drive models with either diesel or petrol engines, or the entry two-wheel drive model with 1.2-litre 77TSI petrol engine.

Head of Skoda Australia Matthew Wiesner told motoring.com.au that his company anticipates the Yeti will become the brand's volume-seller here. Currently the well-sorted Octavia is the brand's best-seller while the upcoming Fabia is also a great drive, with decent equipment levels and standout styling. The new small car range will help Skoda double sales in Australia, according to local spokesmen.

An additional drivetrain option for the clever Yeti will strengthen its cause in the compact SUV market. "We need a petrol four-wheel drive as well," admitted Wiesner. "The two-wheel drive [model] is important because it's doing a job amongst quite a different demographic compared to the four-wheel drive buyers. So they have to both work."

It's anticipated the new Yeti 4WD offering will use the VW Group's 112TSI engine, positioning it between the 77TSI 2WD and the 103TDi 4WD models. Pricing for the petrol 4WD will fall "between the initial two offerings" in the Yeti range, which starts at $26,290.

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