In the world of compact SUVs Skoda Yeti occupies a special place, being a unique product that can hardly be called just a crossover or station wagon. The restyled version, presented to the general public in 2013, became a logical continuation of the successful history of the model, correcting many childhood diseases of the first series and adding modern technologies. The car retained its recognizable โrectangularโ silhouette, but received a fresher and more technologically advanced look, which attracted the attention of even those who were skeptical of the original design.
Many buyers wonder whether it is worth considering a used option after an upgrade. Facelift 2013 made critical changes to the line of power units, updated the multimedia system and redesigned the interior, making it more ergonomic. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the nuances that distinguish the updated model from the pre-facelift version, and will help you make an informed choice when purchasing.
It is especially important to pay attention to the technical characteristics, which have become more balanced. Now the car offers not only high cross-country ability, but also comfort comparable to more expensive market segments. Let's dive into the details of the changes to understand what exactly it offers Skoda Yeti in its final and most perfect version.
Exterior changes and updated body design
The first thing that catches your eye when looking at the updated car is the radically redesigned front end. The designers abandoned the massive and slightly rough elements inherent in the first series in favor of more refined forms. New radiator grille became narrower and more elegant, integrating into optical units, which visually expanded the car. The bumper received more complex lines of air intakes, adding a sporty character to the appearance.
Optics has become one of the main features of the update. Appeared in top trim levels full LED headlights, which provide excellent road illumination and look much more modern than their halogen counterparts. The rear has also undergone changes: the lights now have a more complex internal structure, and the license plate has moved to the lower part of the bumper, making room for a chrome trim that adds solidity.
Don't forget about the rims, which have become larger and more stylish. Available alloy wheel options with a radius of up to 17 inches highlight the off-road potential of the vehicle without overloading it visually. The color palette has also been replenished with new shades, including the popular metallic, which favorably emphasizes the angular shape of the body.
- ๐ Modified radiator grille with chrome elements and new shape
- ๐ก New optics: LED headlights and LED fog lights available
- ๐ Updated drives and an expanded selection of body colors
- ๐จ Redesigned rear bumper with number moved down
Interior and cabin ergonomics
The interior of the car has undergone perhaps the most significant changes for the driver and passengers. If earlier the interior seemed a little utilitarian and โplasticโ, then after the renovation quality of materials has grown by an order of magnitude. Soft plastic on the dashboard, improved sound insulation and new seat upholstery fabrics create the feeling of a much more expensive car.
The central element of the updated interior is the multimedia system. Old screens have been replaced with more modern touch-enabled displays that support Bluetooth and navigation. The instrument panel also features new backlighting and improved readability, which is critical when driving in challenging conditions.
Control ergonomics remain at the level characteristic of the brand Skoda. The buttons are located intuitively, and the steering wheel with new spokes has become more comfortable to grip. An important innovation is the VarioFlex system, which allows you to transform the rear row of seats, turning the car into a minivan or truck.
It is worth noting that head space remained the same - this is the calling card of the model, allowing even tall drivers to feel comfortable. However, rear legroom has been optimized thanks to the relocation of some suspension components.
- ๐ฑ New multimedia with large touch screen and navigation
- ๐๏ธ Improved materials upholstery and soft plastic on the panel
- ๐ VarioFlex system for flexible interior transformation
- ๐๏ธ Updated dashboard with better readability
- Silver metallic
- Black mother of pearl
- White matte
- Green "Safari"
- Red "Red Baron"
Technical part and engines
The most important aspect of the facelift was the redesign of the engine range. Owners of the first series often complained about the reliability of early versions, but updated engines 2013 and later have become much more reliable. The main emphasis was placed on environmental friendliness and reduced fuel consumption while maintaining acceptable dynamics.
Petrol units now include a 1.2-litre TSI producing 105bhp. and a 1.4-liter TSI with two power options: 122 and 150 hp. Diesel versions are represented by a 1.6-liter TDI (105 hp) and a more powerful 2.0-liter TDI (140 hp). All these engines comply with environmental standards Euro 5 and are equipped with a Start-Stop system to save fuel in the urban cycle.
The transmission has also undergone changes. Both 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions and a 6-speed DSG automatic are now available. It is important to note that the facelift improved the algorithms for the robotic gearbox, which reduced the risk of clutch overheating in traffic jams compared to earlier versions.
The 4x4 all-wheel drive remained unchanged in its essence, but was adapted to the new engines. The Haldex system now works faster and distributes torque between axles more efficiently, providing excellent maneuverability even in deep snow or mud conditions.
- โ๏ธ New motors TSI and TDI with improved reliability
- ๐ฟ Euro 5 standard and Start-Stop system in the base
- ๐ Improved DSG with new control algorithms
- โฐ๏ธ Adapted all-wheel drive Haldex for better maneuverability
Safety and assistance systems
Safety is one of the company's priorities Skoda, and facelift was no exception. New electronic assistants have been integrated into the updated model, which make driving calmer and more predictable. Stabilization system ESP began to work more subtly, preventing skidding on slippery surfaces.
One of the key innovations was the system Front Assist with City emergency braking function. This system uses radar to track the distance to the vehicle in front and can apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond to warnings. A tire pressure monitoring system has also appeared, which signals a loss of pressure even before it becomes critical.
Passive safety has also been enhanced. The body received additional reinforcements in the doors, and the number of airbags in top trim levels reached six. This includes side and curtain airbags that protect both front and rear occupants in side impacts.
โ ๏ธ Attention! Front Assist is only effective at speeds up to 30 km/h. Don't rely on it completely in difficult driving situations, always keep your distance.
Additional options include a rearview camera and parking sensors, which are more accurate and responsive. Adaptive cruise control, available in some trim levels, allows the car to independently maintain its distance from the vehicle in front, which significantly reduces fatigue on long trips.
- ๐ก๏ธ Front Assist with automatic emergency braking
- ๐จ Pressure control in tires as standard
- ๐ Reinforced body and 6 airbags in the top
- ๐ฅ Rear view camera and improved parking sensors
โ๏ธ Checking the technical condition upon purchase
Features of operation and maintenance
Owners of the updated Skoda Yeti note that the car has become easier to maintain, but requires attention to certain components. Regular oil changes in the engine and gearbox is the key to long service life. This is especially critical for turbocharged TSI engines: the use of low-quality oil can lead to rapid wear of the turbine.
The car suspension, despite its strength, requires periodic inspection. Steering tips and silent blocks may require replacement after a mileage of 80-100 thousand kilometers. It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the drive belts and rollers, which, when worn, can emit an unpleasant whistle or lead to breakage.
In winter conditions, it is important to remember to choose the right tires. Due to the high center of gravity and square body shape aerodynamics The car does not have the best, so at high speeds you may feel drift from the side wind. A high-quality set of winter tires with studs or Velcro is required for safe driving.
Fuel consumption of the updated versions has become lower, especially in the combined cycle. Petrol versions 1.2 TSI consume about 6-7 liters, and diesel 2.0 TDI can achieve 5-6 liters per 100 km. However, an aggressive driving style with constant acceleration can increase this figure by 20-30%.
Common problems with electronics
There are cases of parking sensor failure due to moisture getting into the connectors. It is recommended to regularly check the condition of the contacts and apply protective lubricant. Also, sometimes there is a โglitchโ in the multimedia system that reboots. The solution is to update the firmware at the dealer.
โ ๏ธ Attention! When replacing spark plugs on turbocharged engines, use only original components. Cheap analogues can quickly fail and damage the ignition coils.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
On the used car market Skoda Yeti has its direct competitors, such as Nissan Qashqai, Renault Duster and Toyota RAV4. However, it is the restyled version that offers a unique combination of cross-country ability, practicality and efficiency, which is difficult to find among competitors. If the Duster offers cheaper operation, but is inferior in comfort, the Yeti wins due to its build quality and ergonomics.
Comparing with Toyota RAV4, it is worth noting that the Japanese crossover offers a smoother ride, but loses in trunk capacity and flexibility in interior transformation. Nissan Qashqai is more focused on city driving and lacks the true off-road potential that the AWD Yeti has.
The final verdict is clear: restyled Skoda Yeti is one of the most rational choices in its class. It combines the practicality of a minivan, the cross-country ability of an SUV and the efficiency of a small crossover. With proper care, this car can serve faithfully for many years without causing serious problems to the owner.
| Parameter | 1.2 TSI (105 hp) | 1.4 TSI (122 hp) | 2.0 TDI (140 hp) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10.9 sec | 9.9 sec | 9.3 sec |
| Flow (mixed) | 6.3 l/100 km | 6.4 l/100 km | 5.5 l/100 km |
| Drive | Front/4x4 | Front/4x4 | 4x4 |
| Gearbox | Mechanical/DSG | Mechanical/DSG | DSG |
Before purchasing, be sure to check the vehicle's service history. Failure to keep a DSG oil change record can result in costly repairs.
The restyled Yeti is the golden mean between comfort and cross-country ability, offering the best performance in the compact crossover class.
Which is better to choose: 1.2 TSI or 1.4 TSI?
If you plan to use the car mainly in the city, the 1.2 TSI is quite sufficient and more economical. For the track and dynamic driving, it is better to choose the 1.4 TSI, which provides better traction and overtaking without extra effort.
Is the DSG gearbox reliable in facelift?
Yes, restyled models have more reliable versions of the DSG gearbox (DQ250 and DQ200 with modified algorithms). The main thing is not to forget to change the oil in it every 60,000 km.
What is the fuel consumption of the 2.0 TDI diesel version?
In the urban cycle, consumption is about 7-8 liters, on the highway at a speed of 90-100 km/h you can keep within 5-5.5 liters per 100 km.
Are there any differences in cross-country ability between versions?
Yes, versions with 4x4 all-wheel drive have a locking center clutch and increased ground clearance (up to 195 mm), which makes them significantly more capable than front-wheel drive versions.
Is it worth paying extra for LED headlights?
Absolutely yes. LED headlights provide much better visibility at night and have a longer lifespan than halogen bulbs.