Updating its SUV for the 2014 model year, Skoda has launched the 2014 Yeti facelift in India, priced from Rs. 18.99 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it much more expensive than the outgoing model (around Rs. 2 lakhs dearer). The very capable crossover gets a cosmetic makeover on the outside, while the cabin is now loaded with much more equipment that makes this SUV a bit more fun. The changes however do not include any changes to the mechanicals and the 2014 Yeti continues with the same diesel engine in 2WD and 4WD options, while there is no petrol motor in the lineup.
The real change has been done by Skoda’s design division with the SUV losing its quirkiness in favour of a more suave and modern look. The front fascia looks more inspiring and confident with new angular styled headlights that feature integrated LED DRLs and projector lamps. The front grille has been updated in-line with the ones seen on the new Octavia and Superb models, while the bumper has been completely revised with redesigned lower air intake grille and new set of rectangular fog lamps.
The changes are minimal to the side profile but the car gets new alloy wheels to boast off. The rear profile on the other hand includes new C-shaped tail lights and a redesigned bumper. The tail gate has been mildly revised with new cuts and gets a restyled number plate housing like the ones seen on Skoda’s other models. Sharing its platform with the old Laura, the 2014 Skoda Yeti measures almost the same as its sedan sibling; however, there are no changes to the height or width of the facelifted SUV.
On the inside, Skoda has added a new 3-spoke steering wheel, start-stop button and electrically operated driver’s seat equipped with memory settings. The audio touchscreen unit remains the same but gets updated with Bluetooth connectivity. The 2014 Yeti also gets dual zone AC, cruise control, panoramic sunroof, individually folding rear seats, new seat upholstery, optical parking assist and a lot more on offer. The company offers the Yeti in only one trim – Elegance. Unfortunately, the Yeti facelift still remains strictly a 5-seater, a factor that has always played against the SUV.
Powering the 2014 Skoda Yeti facelift will be the same 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine available in two states of tune. The base version makes 110 BHP of power and 250 Nm of torque, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission, while the top-end version makes 140 BHP and 320 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed manual transmission. The Yeti continues to come in 4×2 variant, while the 4×4 variant gets an updated and lighter Haldex clutch with an optimised off-road programme. Skoda says that it has also worked on the clutch to make it lighter than the outgoing model. The company stated that an automatic version is not on the cards anytime soon.
While the facelift may have changed the Yeti’s face for the good, Skoda has not ripped off the SUV’s key personality trait, its handling. The 2014 retains the same mechanicals with an all-independent suspension setup and is a breeze to drive across smooth tarmac or rough terrain. While the pricing may seem optimistic, the Yeti offers a lot more than just new looks and should be seriously considered by folks who want a genuine urban SUV. Skoda states that they are concentrating on sales and after sales ownership, the result of the same is yet to be seen.
2014 Skoda Yeti Facelift Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) –
* Yeti 4×2 – Rs. 18.99 lakhs
* Yeti 4×4 – Rs. 20.54 lakhs
Read our review of the 2014 Skoda Yeti HERE.
