The Skoda Yeti has been in existence for over six years now and despite getting a midlife update, this compact crossover is feeling its age now. Fortunately, Skoda is preparing a replacement with more space, a new engine range and a more traditional crossover look.
The next-gen Yeti will share its DNA with the Volkswagen Tiguan as both these crossovers make use of derivations of VW’s MQB platform. While the Yeti in its current form looks rather distinctive, the new model will feature more traditional design cues with a sleeker look, incorporating the design language set out by the Vision S concept.
Among several design changes, the upright rear hatch of the current model will be replaced by a more raked version, giving the car a sleeker profile than before. In the front, a quad headlamp arrangement and clamshell hood mean the Yeti shares its face with the upcoming Kodiaq, while slim LED headlights and a wide grille complete the look. The rear, meanwhile, will feature slim tail-lights featuring Skoda’s signature light pattern and split as the tailgate is opened. Inside, the new Yeti will be more practical than the current car, with a bigger boot and more space in the cabin for passengers.
The new Yeti will also have a hybrid model that is expected to share the VW Tiguan GTE’s powertrain, which means a 1.4-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, giving CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km. As for the rest of the engines, a 1-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol as well as 1.6 and 2-litre diesel units are expected. When launched, the new Yeti will carry a certain amount of premium over the existing model, thanks to the host of improvements and additions to its boot.