The 4x4 for people on a budget who want performance instead of prestige. Andrew Frankel takes one for a spin.
People shopping on a budget rarely look at SUVs and you can see why: they’re quite expensive to buy and their size and weight do nothing for fuel consumption. What is too often forgotten is that the very best models are so popular that they retain their value better than any other category of mainstream car.
And the best mid-sized SUV since it was launched is the Skoda Yeti. Normally, we’d shy away from suggesting high-spec, high-equipment models for those minding their wallets, but Yetis are so residually strong you can afford to splash out a little on an engine with decent power and a cabin with an enticing array of equipment because, relative to any other kind of family car this kind of money buys, you’ll get far more back when you sell. Remember too, if you don’t need four-wheel drive, the front-drive cars are both cheaper to buy and more frugal to run.
Performance
- Engine: 1968cc, 168bhp
- Top speed: 125mph
- 0-60mph acceleration: 8.4sec
Costs
- Claimed economy: 47.9mpg
- Insurance Group: 16 (1=low, 50=high)
