THE name doesn’t really tell the true story. It projects an image of a mythical beast tromping around the Himalayas terrorizing children and eating the odd Sherpa.

In reality, the Yeti could not be cuddlier, more friendly, more affable and endearing. Think more Monsters Inc than Hammer Horror and you are getting the drift.

The last time I drove a Skoda Yeti it looked slightly different and was a cheaper variant. I still loved the way it went and how it attracted attention from people wanting to know whether it was as good as everyone said.

So when the latest model arrived in the drive, I couldn’t wait to see whether it is beast or buddy.

New Yeti gets the corporate looks to match the rest of the range and it suits it down to the ground. There’s nothing wrong with the previous model and the latest is just different. Both are great; the latest Yeti freshens the brand.

What hasn’t changed is the fact that it remains a great car to be in.

It is large and spacious inside, the glass roof bathes you in light and the dash, trim and ergonomics are perfect. It is comfortable, practical, well-equipped and just plain fabulous.

The view is amazing and it is an environment in which you simply can’t fail to feel at home.

If the previous was cheap and cheerful, then this model is the serious end of the range. It’s not called the Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI CR DSG 4x4 Outdoor for nothing.

Starting from the left; yes, it’s a Skoda Yeti, powered by a 2.0 litre turbo diesel, the automatic gearbox is the magnificent DSG, and they don’t come any better than that, and this particular SUV comes with all-wheel drive for the true outdoor experience.

When the confirmation came through of the booking I couldn’t help be excited – now you wouldn’t expect to say that about a Skoda in days gone by.

And it lives up to the expectation.

The engine is strong, smooth and frugal. It pulls, it cruises, it sprints, yet it sips rather than gulps the fuel.

DSG is breathtaking in its speed of change and levels of refinement; autos don’t come any better. And the 4x4 means handling and traction are peerless.

It’s the little things that make the difference too. The boot – which could be larger – features a useful grab handle on the tailgate so you don’t ever have to get hold of a dirty rear end. Then there are two rails either side of the load bay with hooks. These are designed to secure the plastic bag handles so your shopping doesn’t spill out on the journey home. Simple but effective; love it.

Everything about the Yeti leaves you happy and wanting more. No wonder the Skoda is fast becoming a legend of mountainous proportions.

Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI CR
DSG 4x4 Outdoor

  • Engine: 2.0 turbo diesel
  • Power: 140PS
  • 0-62mph: 10.2 secs
  • Top speed: 116mph
  • Combined miles per gallon: 44.8
  • Transmission: seven-speed auto DSG
  • CO2 g/km: 164