SKODA Yeti 2009-2013 Photos, engines & full specs

Skoda dared for more and introduced the Yeti on the market in 2009 as its first attempt to enter the SUV segment. But it was just bad timing.

The world financial crisis was not over yet, but the Czech carmaker couldn't wait for that to end. So its parent company, Volkswagen, ordered them to launch the Yeti. This vehicle was showcased as a concept car in 2005. It was one of the most practical vehicles on the European market. Moreover, it marked the automaker's entry into the SUV segment, where it wasn't before.

Skoda built the Yeti on the same platform as the Volkswagen Golf. Still, its design resembled the Roomster and the Fabia. At the front, the inward-mounted fog lamps created a unique look for the Czech vehicle. In addition, the steep windshield was needed to create a tall greenhouse, while at the back, the car featured a wide vertical tailgate.

Inside, it didn't need any badges to show its Volkswagen connection. But unlike many other VW products, it showed a clever interior. There were plenty of storage areas: on top of the center stack, in the glove compartment, between the front seats, and even under the high-mounted front bucket seats. At the back, the sliding bench fit for three offered the unusual option for a vehicle in that class to tilt, tumble, or remove the entire bench in parts or entirely.

Under the hood, the carmaker offered a wide engine range, gasoline, and turbo-diesel, paired with a manual or an automatic transmission. Depending on the version, the Yeti was available with a front- or an all-wheel drive system.