Suzuki Grand Vitara 2013 review
Suzuki Australia has had ongoing demands to import two-wheel drive Grand Vitaras for many years. In...
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Most telling is VW's Tiguan 103TDI, which is only $300 more than the Skoda Yeti with the same engine. At the entry level the 77TSI Yeti is more competitive at $2200 less than the more powerful 118TSI Tiguan.
DESIGN
And there is certainly nothing abominable about its character. Styling is a standout in a world of lookalikes. It might not be the prettiest face with its bulging fog light sockets and boxy rear but it has identity.
Styling is purposeful and functional and high on versatility and maximising space. Its three-piece back seats fold and slide every which way. With near vertical sides and tailgate, the load volume is almost van-like. The interior is inviting and well laid out with familiar Volkswagen-style controls and instruments.
DRIVE
On test, a manual 77TSI was not to be fooled by its small capacity. With the help of turbocharging it punches above its weight. Power delivery is smooth and progressive with eager step-off, decent mid-range response and a relaxed touring gait.
Frugal too at 6.5 litres/100km of premium unleaded on test or the same as the 103TDI auto also on test. The official combined figures are of 6.6 litres/100km for the TSI manual and 6.7 litres/100km for the TDI auto. Slick and precise, the six-speed manual shift is a delight to use. The DSG is quick and decisive, but still shows some jerkiness on take-up and is not suited to left foot braking.
The 4-Motion system sends 90 per cent of the drive to the front wheels until slip is detected when up to 100 per cent of drive can be directed to the rear wheels. Off-road, the Yeti will clear all but the sharpest humps and cope easily with dry, rutted forestry tracks.
The chassis is well sorted with agile and confident handling, less body roll than expected of such a tall frame and a comfortable and compliant ride, at least in the base model. The wider tyres on the TDI were lumpy over secondary surfaces. Electro-hydraulic steering is well weighted and quick enough.
VERDICT
The big challenge for the Yeti is to gain a foothold in a cluttered market.
Vehicle | Specs | Price* | |
---|---|---|---|
77 TSI (4X2) | 1.2L, PULP, 6 SP MAN | $6,820 – 9,680 | 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 77 TSI (4X2) Pricing and Specs |
112 TSI (4X4) | 1.8L, PULP, 6 SP | $7,590 – 10,670 | 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 112 TSI (4X4) Pricing and Specs |
103 TDI (4X4) | 2.0L, Diesel, 6 SP | $10,230 – 13,970 | 2012 Skoda Yeti 2012 103 TDI (4X4) Pricing and Specs |
$10,990
Lowest price, based on 4 car listings in the last 6 months