The article was originally produced on November 25, 2011, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

Skoda Yeti

Switching from Audi was an option that looked impossible after having a self-imported A6 Avant 2.5 Tdi Quattro from Germany with extras. A full service van with navi, laminated windows and Recaro seats to name a few. But after being with the AMS gang on numerous tests, as well as on my own as motor editor for a lifestyle magazine, it was natural to take a closer look at a Skoda Yeti. My options before the purchase were Mini Countryman and Volkswagen Tiguan. The latter fell away as the price went over my budget before I even got the leather upholstery. When it came to the Mini, it didn't feel practical enough, but just trendy and also rather bumpy and hard in the chassis. Yeti was left as the winner!

The choice for me of a small SUV depends on the accessibility and that in my profession as a photographer I want a small robust car that can handle the steak in most situations. In terms of appearance, I'm very fond of the upturned tough front and the square box shape of the rear, as well as the generous wheel arches. The spec on the Yeti I chose was a 2-liter diesel with 140 horsepower, four-wheel drive and DSG gearbox. Due to the DSG boxes being in short supply at Volkswagen, the delivery time was a full six months, boring but well worth the wait. Why I chose the color white had nothing to do with the fact that it is the trendiest color now on cars, but actually that it works as a reflector when taking certain types of "racing pictures". 

Even though the options list was pretty much ticked off, I couldn't help but take some extra measures to get the Yeti just the way I wanted it. To begin with, Patric at Infosite arranged a pair of Audi R8 replica rims in the size 20 inches. These were sent directly to be painted by Interia, who are really good at rim jobs such as paint and repairs. The color choice was of course matte black to get the really tough look. The wheels were shod with a pair of low-profile tires that Oscar at Bytthjul picked up. Since the rims are so large and the tires have such a low profile, it has of course resulted in some comfort deficiencies, something I have chosen to live with. If the choice of car had been a Mini, it probably wouldn't have worked because the chassis has a harder set-up than the Yetin's right from the start. Even the original rims have been painted matte black and equipped with stud-free winter soles. 

To spice things up, I also wanted to change some exterior details such as painting the roof black, which you can now get on 2012 models of the Yeti. Then I've never been much for chrome, which the grill is made of, instead I wanted a matte black one. These things Andreas and his companion put on WrapZone care with the help of foiling, a type of tape that is placed directly on the paint. Even some interior details have been changed to a carbon fiber look. In terms of appearance, I am completely satisfied with the result and am equally happy every time I see my car. 

Sure, it's not an aha experience driving a Yeti compared to all the cars I've driven over the years as a car photographer and even though the A6 I owned was a more comfortable long-distance wagon. But with the DSG box, the car still feels lively even though it only has 140 horsepower. This is thanks to the fact that it really utilizes the power of each gear and that the changes happen lightning fast. The top speed is just over 200, which is also good enough for trips on the Autobahn. And city driving in queues is a joy partly because I don't have to change gear but also because of the option of Bluetooth for the phone, everything happens wirelessly to the car such as calls and music. Super smooth!

I consider it very important that the car should work in many different types of situations. A longer European trip was made this summer together with the partner, and the trip included both a visit to the Nürburgring and a music festival where the car was used as a sleeping place. The latter was considerably simplified thanks to the fact that the seats can be removed at the back so that the floor becomes flat. So with a cut-to-size mattress and mosquito net for the open panoramic roof, you slept like a king under the starry sky. The laps on the ring are probably not among the fastest I've driven, but a necessity for the "Ringendekalen" to be put on the car!