Skoda has quietly launched the Yeti 4×2 in India. The Yeti 4×2 features a lesser powerful engine and front-wheel drive layout. The 2.0-liter TDI motor produces 110 BHP of power at 4200 RPM and 250 Nm of torque between 1500-2500 RPM. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and the Yeti 4×2 features the same chassis, braking system and dimensions of the Yeti 4×4. The Yeti 4×2 is lighter at 1445 kgs (the 4×4 weighs 1543 kgs) and has a small fuel tank of 55-liters (the Yeti 4×4 has a fuel tank capacity of 60-liters). The Yeti 4×2 is available in Active and Ambition variants and losses quite a few features compared to the 4×4 model, which is available in Ambition and Elegance variants.
The major features which are absent in the 4×2 Yeti is the Off-Road Assitant, which includes a host of technology such as hill descent control, drive-off assistant, off-road ABS, off-road ASR, off-road TCS and off-road EDL (electronic differential lock). Side airbags and parktronic sensors at the front are completely absent as well with the 4×2 getting differently designed alloy wheels to differentiate it from its 4×4 sibling on first glance. Skoda has also removed lumbar support and rain sensing wipers (on the Active variant) and touchscreen audio system and LCD screen, CD changer, audio controls on steering wheel, SD/MMC data card reader, climate control, dual zone climatronic and Electronic setup for multi-function display (Convenience, Lights and vision, Time, Winter tyres, Language, Units, Assistant, Alternate speed display, Service interval) on the 4×2 version. However Skoda has offered ESP, Hill Hold control and Vario Flex on the 4×2 variant of the Yeti.
Update (22/11/2011) – Skoda Auto has announced the prices of the Yeti 4×2. The Yeti Active (4×2) has been priced at Rs. 15.52 lakhs, while the Yeti Ambition (4×2) is priced at Rs. 16.50 lakhs (all prices on-road, Mumbai). Thus the cheapest Yeti (Active 4×2) is cheaper by Rs. 2.37 lakhs from the previously cheapest Yeti (Ambition 4×4).
