Skoda Yeti Vs BMW X5

SUVs are not just about driving, but lording over the rest of the road users. But their massive size-which has been their trademark-has always bothered us. And that's where the Yeti differs. It's just like a big-boned hatchback which can do anything that a full-blown SUV can. So let's sit back and find out if it is capable of achieving all that its bigger competitors can.



Space wise the Yeti can easily seat five adults and what's interesting is its Varioflex space management feature. What it does is let you tilt back the reverse seats to such an extent that they can be simply folded or even detached completely to give you loads of extra space.

Powering this machine is a 2.0 litre diesel motor, the same engine that propels Laura but some tweaks have been done to achieve a max power output of 140 bhp. Adding more bite is its stupendous torque of 320 Nm which can be banked upon from as low as 1750 rpm. The best thing about the Yeti is that it's as easy to manoeuvre as a sedan. Due to its short wheelbase and a high ground clearance it can also easily tackle off road activities to quite an extent. But what takes the cake is its compact size which let's you carve your own way through narrow mountain trails which can be a hassle in a full-blown SUV.



The fuel efficiency on clogged city roads came in close proximity of double digit figure; no mean feat from an engine that whips the speedometer needle to 100 km/ph in 5.5 seconds, with a V8 power unit featuring twin-power turbo and direct injection delivering a torque of 600 Nm at 1,750-4 ,500 rpm. The eight-speed transmission is assisted with 'servotronic' steering assistance that gave us the comfort of driving a sedan. Add to it the wider tyres for a better grip and the refurbished alloys with more spokes to give it a rigidity on tardy Indian roads.

There are improved interiors with lighter shades of colours in its Nevada leather upholstery and BMW has added optional third-row seats to accommodate up to seven persons with ease storage space. Besides, there are minor changes with iDrive system which controls the entertainment and information functions. Clearly, X5 is trying to race past Audi Q7, with a reinvented blend of sportiness and aggression. With its signature kidney grille and dual round headlights, slightly cut off at the top, have been re-compassed to makes the car more striking, the X5 now can boasts of an expressive front that may force its global arch-rival , the Audi Q7, to come up with something better.