02 Mar 05
Skoda's well-finished Yeti concept hints that Volkswagen's Czech division is about to launch its answer to the Polo Dune or Rover Streetwise: it has the looks and high ground clearance of an off-roader, but just front-wheel drive transmission. Continuing the design themes of the boxy Roomster MPV concept with a wraparound, upright windscreen and layered roof, it also previews the new-look Skoda grille and headlights - expect to see these on upcoming production Skodas.
It's designed to look friendly and "self-confident" but not aggressive, so we're not sure why it's named after the mythical Himalayan abominable snowman, reclusive and said to be partial to human flesh... Skoda says that it is meant to be "convincing in an urban environment", but "could also be a sought-after means of transport in countries with a less than perfect road system."
Clever touches include the single windscreen wiper, which rests on the right-hand A-pillar, central glass panel in the roof, a two-piece tailgate with tilt-out numberplate and section to act as a bike carrier and a wide door with large central hinge. All cabin controls are operable by a single hand movement via either large levers or push-buttons; features include a cooled water container with removable straws, a satellite navigation system which can be removed to use as a portable GPS unit and, instead of carpets, removable easy-clean plastic trays.
