new  skoda yeti front

New 2014 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI Review: Groomed Grizzly

Engine, transmission and performance

new 2014 Skoda yeti engine

Skoda haven’t changed a thing about the engine and transmission options available on the Yeti, and the vehicle continues to be available with the 2.0 liter TDI engine in two states of tune. For the less expensive 4×2 variant, the engine produces a peak power of 110PS @ 4200 rpm and peak torque rated at 250Nm between 1500-2500 rpm. The top of the line 4×4 version, on the other hand gets a more powerful version of the engine with 140PS on tap, produced at 4200 rpm, while an impressive 320Nm of peak torque is produced at 1750-2500 rpm.

new 2014 skoda yeti center console (1)

While the 4×2 variant comes with a 5 speed transmission, the more powerful 4×4 variant comes equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission as before. The only mechanical change on the vehicle is the new fifth generation Haldex clutch. The new design AWD system aims at simplifying things and making integration into the drivetrain more convenient. The fifth gen system employs a new electro-hydraulic clutch actuator with a centrifugal overflow valve design to juggle power better between the front and rear axles. The new system does away with the need to for an accumulator, solenoid valve and filter, and is also 1.4 kg lighter than the previous gen version.

2014 Skoda Yeti action (5)

We drove the 4×2 variant for the media drive. At 110 PS, the power may not sound too enticing for a vehicle that weighs close to one and a half tons, but in practice, the Yeti even with the lesser of the two engines is a fun machine to drive. There is some turbo lag to be experienced, and the engine pulls with force only once the turbo has properly spooled up post the 2000 rpm mark. Below that point, you do tend to expect a bit more from the motor. Beyond the 2K mark, however, the Yeti accelerates with reassurance and during our drive to Gulmarg and Sonamarg, made light work of the winding inclines, the generous 250Nm of torque coming mighty handy.

2014 Skoda Yeti action (3)

The 140 PS engine on the Yeti 4×4, also powering the Skoda Octavia, Superb and the Audi A3 is a different monster though. The 110PS version, though suitably powered, doesn’t quite feel as engaging and enthralling to drive as its bigger cousin. While we did not drive the 4×4 variant on this specific drive, having driven the previous gen variant for thousands of kilometres on earlier occasions, the difference was easily perceptible. The 4×4 version’s AWD system also aids grip and stability on the limit and makes it an even more appealing car for the enthusiasts.

The clutch on the new Yeti is lighter as compared with the previous version. Except that, the drive feel remains more or less the same as on the earlier model – the best for any mainstream SUV. Quite honestly, there isn’t another SUV this side of Rs 20 lakh which can match the Yeti for grip, an involving steering and fantastic poise.

new 2014 Skoda yeti rear (5)

We would have loved to see the twin clutch DSG automatic transmission on this car, which would have made it a properly distinguished premium SUV. Not only would the auto transmission have made the Yeti a more convenient car to drive, with the quick shifting DSG, it would probably have been more enjoyable too. For now, however, we hear that the manual transmissions are something we will have to live with, as Skoda doesn’t have any DSG plans for the Yeti in the foreseeable future.

 4×4 and off-road capability

The Yeti 4×4’s AWD gear isn’t a marketing gimmick like some other soft-roaders. It’s a serious kit of hardware and software which actually works very well to get you out of treacherous terrain.  Here’s what you need to know about the technical aspects of the Yeti’s 4×4 gear.

Fifth generation Haldex Clutch

Final - The new Å KODA Yeti - poduct presentation_p-page-002

The 2014 Yeti features an updated fifth generation Haldex clutch. It’s quite advanced, and doesn’t need any inputs from the driver to sense trouble. On dry roads, 96% of the engine’s torque is delivered to the front wheels. However, if required, the Haldex clutch can divert up to 90% of the torque to the rear axle. The limited slip differential on the rear axle distributes drive evenly from side to side, ensuring excellent grip and stability on all surfaces.

Engine revs, throttle pedal position, wheel speed, steering wheel turn angle, brake light switch – everything is monitored to ensure that optimum traction is delivered to all four wheels. So in essence, while the Yeti remains a 4×2 on the road, it turns into a 4×4 as and when you get stuck in grime.

The off-road mode

Right at the very bottom of the centre console, you have the off-road button. Operable at a maximum speed of 30 km/h, the off-road mode adjusts electronic safety systems like ABS, ASR and EDL. It makes the acceleration pedal more sensitive, and puts a cap on maximum achievable revs for the engine. Hill descent assist is also automatically activated in this mode. Activation of the system is signalled by the yellow illumination of the button. The Off-Road mode remains on if the engine is restarted again within 30 second

Uphill start assistant

The uphill start assistant helps the driver start off without rolling back while going uphill. The driver can press the acceleration pedal to maximum because the engine revolutions at move off are limited to 2,500 rpm. The assistant further adjusts the characteristics of the acceleration pedal which facilitates move off on unpaved or slippery surface.

ASR off-road

To improve start on soft or low-adhesion surfaces, the ASR system allows more slip of the driving wheels. This function is available for start-up or for speeds below 30 km/h.

The electronic differential lock (EDL)

EDL helps the car react faster and harder in slippery conditions, as compared to the standard mode. The system brakes the slipping wheel/s more promptly, e.g. in crossaxle situations, in order to maintain traction.

ABS Off-road

In off-road mode, the ABS system is adjusted so as to exploit the ‘wedge effect’, to block the braked wheel and push the ground before it, making a wedge. This makes the braking more efficient. To maintain the steering control of the car, this function is only available when the front wheels are aligned in straight direction and the speed does not exceed 50 km.

Downhill assistant

The downhill assistant automatically brakes the wheels while going downhill to maintain a constant speed. The ABS also prevents blocking of the wheels, as the car may overturn if the wheels are blocked while being perpendicular with the slope. With the downhill assistant, the driver can fully concentrate on steering and choose the ideal driving path.

Rough Road Package

  • The rough road package includes some additions which make the Yeti an even more capable off roader. Here’s the list
  • Engine cover with additional acoustic damping, thermoplastic material
  • Rear axle covers (left and right) – plastic material
  • Handbrake + bracket – reinforced outer cable case
  • Brake line – multi – inner layer copper, the main case plate and whole covered with polymeric protective layer

Next page for ride & handling, price and verdict>>>

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