Overview of available crossovers
The popularity of small crossovers in Russia, as well as in Europe, is growing rapidly. And the variety of models is so great that it is already impossible to cover them in one review. In this material, we will talk about the seven most affordable ones - from 700,000 to 900,000 rubles for a basic version.
CROSSOVERS made a revolution in the minds of motorists and created a powerful consumer incentive - this fact no one will deny. Born in the 90s as an evolutionary offshoot of off-road vehicles, they are often deprived of an all-terrain arsenal, but retained other advantages - roominess, comfortable ride, high seating position.
Crossovers have exploded in popularity since automakers began to produce affordable compact versions. It was these cars that most of all attracted the most significant part of motorists - the townspeople. “Lightweight” driver’s ergonomics and a sense of size, dynamics and maneuverability, fuel efficiency… And plus, a spacious interior, a softened suspension for unimportant roads and, importantly, the image of a significant car.
Restyling: no
Drive: front or full
Ground clearance: 17 cm
Dimensions: 441x182x166 cm
Trunk volume: 591-1.436 l
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT of the “ix35”, the company “Kia” spared no effort, no money, no time - for a car that replaced the super popular in the Old World, and we also have a “Hyundai Tucson” is a special bet. And to make the crossover even more “European”, work on design and fine-tuning was transferred to the German division of “Hyundai” in Rüsselsheim.
A new style of “flowing sculpture” was implemented in the car. The appearance really turned out to be spectacular - at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, the crossover gathered crowds of visitors around it. The German specialists managed to make the interior of the “ix35” just as expressive: the instrument panel, illuminated with a pleasant blue light and decorated with crescent-shaped metal inserts, looks spectacular, but not at all arrogant.
The technical stuffing of “ix35” is on top. The traditional passenger car chassis with McPherson struts up front and multi-link rear suspension offers a welcome compromise in comfort and handling. The new six-speed automatic transmission almost fully realizes the potential of gasoline and diesel engines. Buyers can choose between the more fuel-efficient front-wheel-drive "ix35" or the all-wheel-drive version.
“If the Tucson looked very pragmatic, I would even say simple, then in the guise of the ix35 the designers’ desire for beauty, if not pretentiousness, is noticeable.”
Dmitry GRONSKY, Klaxon No. 4 ‘2010
Crossovers "ix35" are equipped with petrol "2.0 MPI" or diesel "2.0 CRDi", and the turbodiesel on the older version with the same volume produces 184 hp. This, by the way, is one of the most dynamic modifications in the review.
The basic equipment does not look poor - it differs from the higher level “Comfort” only in that it has air conditioning instead of climate control, no roof rails, ESP stabilization system, some driver adjustments and electric drives for folding mirrors. The “Style” package adds Bluetooth, parking sensors, keyless entry and 18-inch wheels instead of 17-inch ones. The most luxurious version is “Prestige”. Leather, sunroof, chrome, deep tinted...
All-wheel drive “4WD ECU” automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles. The off-road qualities of the car are enhanced by the hill descent assistance system and the hill start assistant.
Among the features, one can note the presence of an air ionizer in the climate system, heated rear seats and a rear-view camera screen built into the saloon mirror.
The ix35 has been produced at the Kia Motors plant in Slovakia since the beginning of 2010. Models in the most popular configurations are available from dealers. The delivery time for a special machine can take up to four months.
Restyling: no
Drive: front or full
Ground clearance: 17 cm
Dimensions: 444x185.5x163.5 cm
Trunk volume: 564-1.353 l
ONE of the most long-awaited new products on the Russian market is the third generation “Kia Sportage”. For the first time, the car was presented to the general public at the Moscow Motor Show, and keep in mind: if you decide to place an order, then you should not postpone a visit to the Kia dealer. After all, the previous model enjoyed the fame of an unpretentious crossover with a very favorable price / quality ratio and therefore was in short supply. The novelty turned out to be much brighter and more interesting.
The technical base of the third "Sportage" is common with the above "Hyundai ix35". Therefore, both crossovers are very close in terms of driving habits and dynamics, the level of comfort and spaciousness. But outwardly, nothing indicates their relationship. The brainchild of Kia chief designer Peter Schreier turned out to be a little longer, wider and lower than a colleague. And against the background of its predecessor, the novelty generally looks like a kind of trendy coupe-crossover. The new front panel, divided horizontally into functional zones, is very functional. The instrument panel with sporty red illumination and large digitization also deserves praise. The steering wheel generally seemed to have migrated from some sports car.
Such style differences will appeal to young buyers. Now "Kia Sportage" fully justifies its name.
“The temperament of the previous generation was almost more boring than its design. I’ll tell you right away, the new “Sportage” has become noticeably more dynamic.”
Yuri URYUKOV, Klaxon No. 10 ‘2010
In the future, "Sportage" will appear with small engines - a 1.6-liter 140-horsepower gasoline and a 1.7-liter turbodiesel with 115 hp. And modifications with two-liter engines will be the first to enter the market.
The debutant will be presented in five versions: “Classic”, “Comfort”, “Lux”, “Prestige” and “Premium”. All models are equipped with a rear spoiler. Starting with the “Comfort” level, everyone has heated front and rear (!) seats, a full set of airbags and curtain airbags, rear parking sensors and rain sensors. Top versions will receive 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, combined or leather seat upholstery.
Lighting technology is very “advanced”: all modifications are equipped with projection headlights and foglights with cornering light function. There are also LED sections.
Basic versions have only front-wheel drive. On machines with AWD, the rear axle is connected automatically using an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. It can be blocked - this will increase the off-road potential.
Starting September 1, Kia dealers will begin accepting orders for the new Sportage, and some dealers may even have cars in stock. The assembly of a model adapted to our climate has been established in Kaliningrad.
Restyling: no
Drive: front or full
Ground clearance: 19.5 cm
Dimensions: 429.5x177x162.5 cm
Trunk volume: 415 l
For THEIR small crossover, Mitsubishi did not invent its own name, but simply took the abbreviation “ASX” - “Active Sport X-over”. There is no revolutionary novelty in appearance either - the car received the already familiar “Jet Fighter” front end and a longitudinal side rib, which is now found on almost every new car. Nevertheless, this particular model has a chance to become a bestseller in the near future. If there were such a criterion as price/authority, then for “ASX” it would go off scale beyond all conceivable limits. After all, there has never been a more affordable crossover with three diamonds on the hood.
Its technical base can be considered a big plus of the Mitsubishi ASX: it was developed on the very successful Outlander XL platform and even retained its wheelbase and ground clearance. This, of course, left its mark on the design - the car has practically no overhangs. But this approach allowed Japanese engineers to maintain a very spacious interior with a lower body height. In the suspension, only the settings have been revised - the novelty turned out to be much softer on the go than the donor model. Among other advantages of “ASX”, it is worth highlighting a wide selection of trim levels, among which there are those that will inspire respect even among owners of premium class crossovers.
“None of the competitors has such a panoramic roof. At night, the edges are illuminated with orange LEDs - looks amazing.”
Vyacheslav KITSIS, Klaxon No. 9 ‘2010
The range of engines is by no means poor. Petrol "1.6 MIVEC" is combined only with a manual transmission. Known from the Lancer model, the 1.8- and two-liter MIVEC (only the all-wheel drive version is equipped with this engine) are paired exclusively with a CVT.
Already in the basic “Invite” configuration, the crossover is equipped with air conditioning, heated seats and mirrors, and full power accessories. The "Intense" version adds a color information display, alloy wheels and a set of seven "air bags". In "Instyle Plus" - turn signals in the mirrors, leather upholstery and power seat adjustment. But it's still not top. The most advanced versions are “Ultimate” and “Exclusive”.
The exclusive turquoise-blue color “Kawasemi” has been developed especially for “ASX”.
Versions with 1.6 liters are deprived of anti-slip and hold on the slope, which are on more powerful front-wheel drive CVT modifications. Four-wheel drive on two-liter models is realized through an electronically controlled clutch - the rear wheels are connected when the front wheels slip.
The machine is produced in Japan and delivered to Russia in an adapted form - with an increased capacity battery and an engine start system in severe frosts.
"ASX" is sold in the stores of the "Rolf" network (and only there) for only a month, and there are so many orders for the novelty that they were temporarily stopped accepting. Until December, everything is scheduled.
Debut: 2006 (“Qashqai+2” - 2008)
Restyling: 2010
Drive: front or full
Ground clearance: 20 cm
Dimensions: 433x178x161.5 cm (454.1x178x164.5 cm)
Trunk volume: 410-1.513 l (130-1.510 l)
An EXAMPLE of a perfect target audience is the Nissan Qashqai. From the point of view of discerning connoisseurs of dynamics, comfort and handling, this may not be the best choice. But for the average consumer, "Qashqai" is optimal for all reasons. This car is inexpensive, very reliable, economical, practical and, in addition, endowed with a very expressive appearance. And with the release of the elongated seven-seater version “Qashqai + 2”, spaciousness was added to the number of advantages. True, the seats in the “gallery” in this modification are not designed for adults.
Nissan engineers managed to eliminate all the weaknesses of the crossover in a restyled version. The equipment has expanded. Significantly improved sound insulation. The suspension settings have changed - the car can no longer be called shaky. The smooth and smooth ride brought the compact crossover closer in terms of comfort to the much more expensive Murano. Brought to perfection and the interaction of the variator with the motor. And although this version is not conducive to reckless driving with sharp accelerations and aggressive cornering, it saves a lot of fuel. On the highway at a speed of 120 km / h, the car really fits into the consumption standards of eight liters per “hundred”, and in the city - ten liters.
“I tighten my grip on the steering wheel, subconsciously prepare to take the blows and ... nothing like that happens. “Qashqai” calmly creeps forward, swaying smoothly on bumps.”
Alexey BARASHKOV, “Klaxon” No. 3 ‘2010
There are few engine-gearbox combinations. The 114-horsepower 1.6-liter gasoline engine is offered only with a manual transmission, and the two-liter 141 hp. - exclusively with a variator.
Although all configurations are fixed and do not require factory retrofitting, the choice is still very wide: the five-seat “Qashqai” is offered in 24 options, and the seven-seat “Qashqai + 2” - in 19. The simplest XE version is not available for all-wheel drive two-liter models with a CVT, and the highest LE+ equipment is excluded for 1.6-liter crossovers.
The “4WD” system with electronic torque control on demand “Torque on demand” also allows you to switch to a “2WD” or a drive with a locked differential. The latter will not be superfluous on light off-road.
The seven-seater model provides adjustments for the second and third rows of seats.
The “Nissan Connect” system, which combines the function of an audio system, hands-free and navigation, compares favorably with competitors at an affordable price.
Cars come to Russia from Great Britain. Adaptation to our conditions affects the suspension and power supply system. These parts of the car are reinforced.
“Qashqai” is no longer a scarce model, although dealers have far from all modifications available, but mostly expensive ones, in the highest performance. However, the order of other versions is executed quickly - from a month to three.
Restyling: no
Drive: front
Ground clearance: 19 cm
Dimensions: 430.5x183.7x163 cm
Trunk volume: 630-1.604 l
In EUROPE, this model appeared in 2009, but it came to Russia late and was presented just the other day - at the Moscow Motor Show. The first small crossover "Peugeot" is an original development, and not a clone of another model, such as the larger "Peugeot 4007". At the heart of the "3008" is the platform of the compact hatchback "308". Thanks to this, as well as the dynamic roll control system in the rear suspension, the model received very good handling.
“3008” looks more like a monocab - the design is made in a passenger style, fashionable oblique headlights almost reach the windshield. In addition, not such huge wheels are put on the car as those of competitors. And yet off the road he will not be helpless. The ground clearance of the “3008” reaches 19 cm, and the ESP system, which is customizable for various roads, significantly increases the cross-country ability even of the “1.6 THP” mono-drive model with “mechanics”.
As for the interior, "3008" has a high quality finish and comfortable chairs. The console that wraps around the driver's seat flows into a high and beautifully designed central tunnel (optional), like a real sports car. And for rear passengers, there are even adjustable air ducts. However, there is not as much space on the second row as that of classmates - these places are designed more for teenagers than for adults.
“Everything here is really like in an airplane: consoles with buttons, a display, toggle switches ... The one who designed the interior of the Peugeot 3008 is clearly not indifferent to aviation.”
Vadim OVSIANKIN, Klaxon No. 18 ‘2009
The 120-horsepower “1.6 VTi” is offered only with a manual transmission, and the choice of transmissions for the 156-horsepower turbocharged modifications “1.6 THP” has been expanded with a new six-speed “automatic”.
The base model in the "Comfort Pack" version is endowed with air conditioning, ESP, all airbags and curtain airbags, a steering column with two adjustments and an electric parking brake. The Premium trim will include heated seats, fog lights, a tall leather-wrapped console, alloy wheels and climate control. Huge panoramic roof and two types of leather interior - for a surcharge.
In the class of small crossovers, the “3008” is the only one for which such an option as a projection on the windshield is offered.
In this model, the luggage space is well organized. A rigid additional shelf, installed in different positions, divides the already rather large volume in height into different parts. The folding side under the tailgate forms an absolutely flat and comfortable loading platform. And the left lighting cover is made removable and turns into an autonomous flashlight.
So far, only front-wheel drive “3008” will be presented in dealerships. However, these cars are prepared for Russian winters - they have a reinforced suspension with increased ground clearance, more powerful interior heating and ventilation, and are designed to start in frosts down to -37 degrees.
Restyling: no
Drive: front or full
Ground clearance: 18 cm
Dimensions: 422.3x179.3x169.1 cm
Trunk volume: 405-1.760 l
The FIRST in the history of “Skoda” crossover received a very extravagant appearance, but it was not built from scratch. The car is based on the trade wind platform "VW A5". Before the official release of the Yeti, many were wondering whether the novelty would inherit the characteristic stiffness of Volkswagen cars or would it receive a compromise handling? Czech engineers managed to get around all the problems - "Yeti" is comfortable and clearly controlled. This result - close to the benchmark for a small crossover - is achieved through a low center of gravity and a wider track. And by the way, “Yeti” is the fastest four-wheel drive car in the class. The “1.8T 4x4” version can accelerate to “hundreds” in less than nine seconds and reach a maximum of 200 km/h!
The second significant advantage of the model is the salon. It is impossible to find fault with the quality of finishing materials. No savings on soundproofing. The interior design is made in the traditional "Skoda" style - rational, simple, but not poor. Separately, it is worth noting the possibility of transforming the cabin. The “Varioflex” system allows you to slightly move the rear seats horizontally, change the angle of the backs, and if you remove the middle seat and move the two side seats closer, you get a spacious interior for four riders. The second row can not only be folded, but also removed from the car altogether - then the passenger station wagon will turn into a cargo van with a very decent capacity.
At first, motorists were distrustful of the 105-horsepower modification, in which the engine size seemed shockingly small - 1.197 “cubes”. But it is these versions that are now in the highest demand.
“If you additionally use the “off-road” mode, the hill descent control system is activated, the ESP starts simulating cross-axle differential locks.”
Yuri URYUKOV, Klaxon No. 10 ‘2009
The choice of “motor-box” options is still limited. Turbocharged gasoline “1.2 TSI” is offered only for two-wheel drive cars with “mechanics” or “robot”, and powerful “1.8T” - only with manual transmission and “4x4” drive. Deliveries of the turbodiesel model “2.0 TDI DSG” are planned.
The top version “Experience” is not available for the initial modification, but this does not change anything - “Yeti” and the middle version “Ambition” can be ordered with any options, including leather or Alcantara interiors. There are restrictions on retrofitting only for the budget “Active”.
Especially for Russia, 200 cars were produced in the “Limited Edition” version - with a DSG robotic gearbox, excellent equipment and sports-style trim.
The manual model doesn't include ESP, but it's still worth ordering. This system is able to simulate a differential lock and will seriously help on slippery roads or on light off-road conditions.
SKD “Yeti” has been set up in Kaluga, but since the plant is currently switching to small-knot assembly, the machines will be delivered from the Czech Republic on order. Term - 2.5-3 months. “Yeti” is available and in stock - dealers have stocks of all-wheel drive models and “1.2 TSI DSG Limited Edition”.
Restyling: 2008 and 2010
Drive: front or full
Clearance: 18-19 cm
Dimensions: 444.5x181.5x168.5 cm (462.5x185.5x172 cm)
Trunk volume: 410-540 l
By releasing a low-cost front-wheel drive version of the RAV4, Toyota has managed to attract the attention of buyers who previously thought that this popular crossover was beyond their means. And this summer the offer became even more tempting - Toyota dealers began to offer the latest restyled version, which already belongs to the 2011 model year.
The "RAV4" needs no introduction - it's a legend among small crossovers. The modern third generation of “rafiks” has lost its three-door modification, but an elongated version has appeared, with a more spacious second row of seats and a trunk. True, her restyling did not affect.
"RAV4" is distinguished by high quality workmanship, endurance and an enviable level of comfort even when driving on broken roads. You need to try hard to “break through” its energy-intensive suspension on bumps. This quality is hereditary. After all, the first “rafiks” were created specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, which is reflected in the name of the model - “Recreation Active Vehicle”. And all the beginners of the class, described in our review, are still more “sharpened” for asphalt.
“Keeped “rafik” and its main advantage over competitors - accurate, predictable behavior on the road, worthy of passenger cars.”
Alexey AKSENOV, Klaxon No. 15 ‘2009
For the short wheelbase version, the standard is a 158-horsepower two-liter gasoline engine with a variable valve timing system “Valvematic”, and for an extended version, a 170-horsepower “2.4 VVTi” with a traditional “automatic”.
Restyled cars are offered in four fixed configurations. The rest are presented in two versions - the middle "Comfort Plus" and the highest "Prestige Plus". The latter has a leather interior, power seats, an advanced navigation system with a “hard drive” and a keyless entry system.
The choice of color options for the interior is not rich. But in the accessories section, you can pick up a sports steering wheel and gearshift lever, as well as various decorations. And externally, the car can be transformed by ordering stainless steel sills or stylish running boards - together with the spare wheel placed aft, they will give the crossover a real off-road image.
Edition Klaxon №16 2010 Photo photo of manufacturers
When choosing a car, it is very important to take into account all the factors that in one way or another can affect comfort, safety and functionality. To do this, it is best to conduct a comparative analysis of the two models of vehicles you like in order to understand which one suits the needs of a potential buyer better. If you choose what to buy a Skoda Yeti or Soul KIA, you need to consider the details that characterize them to one degree or another.
If we compare the KIA Soul and the Skoda Yeti, then the second vehicle will undoubtedly win, according to many motorists. This is due to the fact that a Czech-made car is rather boring. In this regard, the eye of an outsider has nothing to even catch on and nothing to consider. The only element of the exterior that one way or another can attract is the presence of round fog lamps. They somewhat dilute the fairly typical car lighting fixtures, which are a bit reminiscent of similar Skoda Fabia fixtures in their appearance.
Owner reviews about KIA Soul are also very positive. This car is distinguished by a rather large front optics. It connects the hood and bumper. Also, the raised front line of the radiator grille immediately becomes noticeable, which the designers decided not to paint in a dark color. The tailgate is shaped like a mailbox slot.
Thus, we can conclude that the Skoda Yeti is a less original car than the KIA Soul. In the second case, the developers really tried. It is worth noting that this vehicle belongs to a Korean manufacturer, but its assembly has been established in the Kaliningrad region of Russia.
The cost of the Skoda Yeti due to its characteristics and place of production is somewhat higher. Rather than KIA Soul. Some motorists believe that such a price is quite reasonable and correct.
Interior Features
Comparison of cars shows not only their quality characteristics, but also comfort and functionality. Most often, the driver encounters these concepts directly inside the car, evaluating and contacting the interior elements. If we talk about the KIA Soul, then its interior is quite rich, and the front panel trim is quite light and pleasant. If we note the miscalculations of the designer, then, probably, it is worth mentioning the dark spots of the deflectors of the airflow system. They are very striking even to those people who only looked into the salon out of the corner of their eyes.
Kia Soul interior
The center console installed in the KIA Soul car looks a bit dated. It has common features with Nokia smartphones, which were popular about 10 years ago. In addition, its design is based on hard and rather unpleasant tactile plastic. Despite this, the ergonomics of the placement of the buttons is observed at a high level. They are well-placed and have appropriate rather large signatures.
If we talk about the devices that the KIA Soul salon is equipped with, then they are quite well placed. Thanks to the available visors, they do not create unpleasant glare while riding. The seats are upholstered in leather and have many different modes of fixation, which allows you to feel comfortable behind the wheel, both for a large man and a fragile girl. Rear seating is also quite spacious. Such a scale is not expected from a hatchback of a similar size. Because of this, the trunk of the car is not very large.
Skoda Yeti interior
If we compare the interior of the KIA Soul and the Skoda Yeti, many car owners think that the first vehicle is the best. Despite this, some motorists also rate the Czech car quite well. In general, we can say that the Skoda Yeti is distinguished by a certain simplicity and even primitivism. The developers decided to install a traditional center console, which has nothing remarkable. The interior uses only gray and black plastic. The steering wheel is four-spoke, with fairly large gaps near the hub. Despite this, the driver feels quite confident behind the wheel. Such a decision of designers does not indicate poverty, but expresses conciseness.
The controls in the Skoda Yeti are arranged according to ergonomic rules - they are located conveniently and logically. Even though plastic doesn't look very good aesthetically, its processing and workmanship make up for it.
Devices in the Skoda Yeti are distinguished by the ability to easily read information. This is ensured by the fact that the principle of radial digitization is used. This method implies the arrangement of numbers in an inclined form, depending on the location of certain marks on a circular scale. The readings of the instrument computer are easier to view in the Skoda Yeti than in the KIA Soul.
The front seats in a Czech-made car are very comfortable. The range of their adjustments is also large, so that any driver can feel as comfortable as possible in the car. Due to the fact that the manufacturer decided to make the trunk quite large, the rear seats do not differ in any way. They are very close to the middle of the vehicle.
luggage compartment
For many car owners, their main and very important part is the trunk. That is why it is worth comparing how it differs in the Skoda Yeti and KIA Soul. The first vehicle in this regard can receive the highest mark. The volume of the luggage compartment is as much as 410 liters. At the same time, it is worth noting that the manufacturer left the possibility of shifting the rear seat, which can add an additional hundred liters to the trunk. If you completely fold the rear seats in the car, you can get a full-fledged cargo compartment, which can fit quite a lot of things. Its volume will exceed 1500 liters. In addition, in the Skoda Yeti, dismantling is much faster and easier than in the KIA Soul. It is also worth mentioning that in a Czech car, each of the three parts moves separately from the others.
KIA Soul, like many Asian cars, is quite compact. It has a narrow and not very comfortable rear door, which does not allow large items to be placed in the cabin. The capacity of the luggage compartment in the maximum form is only 222 liters. The rear seats can be folded but not removed. Therefore, in any case, they will by themselves occupy a certain amount of internal space. If this is done, then the compartment is still half as large as in the Skoda Yeti - about 700 liters. In addition, in this regard, it is also worth noting the convenience of removing the spare wheel. At KIA Soul, it is necessary not only to raise the floor, but also to remove the tool box. Only after that, a replacement wheel can be pulled out of a very deep niche.
Technical details of machines
In order to evaluate what is more reliable to purchase - KIA Soul or Skoda Yeti, it is also worth comparing their design features and details.
KIA Soul refers to cars with a hatchback body type, while Skoda Yeti is a crossover. Each car has five seats. They also have the same type of drive - front.
There are different types of cars. That is, the buyer can choose for himself exactly the one that suits him best. It is best to compare the maximum performance. The engine capacity of the KIA Soul is 1591 cubic centimeters, and the Skoda Yeti is 1197 cubic centimeters. At the same time, the first power unit is capable of developing a power of 130 horsepower at a speed of 6300 units per minute, while the second is only 105 "horses" at 5000 rpm.
The average acceleration to 100 kilometers per hour for KIA Soul and Skoda Yeti is also different - it is 10.8 and 12 seconds, respectively. Both cars run only on A-95 gasoline fuel. They spend about the same amount. The fuel consumption of the Skoda Yeti in urban conditions is about 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers, and outside the city - about 6 liters per 100 kilometers. KIA Soul, according to the manufacturer, consumes 8 liters in the city, followed by 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers. At the same time, the tank, despite the consumption, has a different capacity for vehicles. The Skoda Yeti has a volume of 60 liters. At KIA Soul, in turn, gasoline will fit in just 48 liters.
The dimensions of the cars are almost identical, except for the clearance. The length of the Kia Soul is 4120 millimeters, while the Skoda Yeti is 4223 millimeters. The width is approximately the same - 1785 and 1793 mm, respectively. The height is slightly different, as the Skoda is 81 millimeters taller. At the same time, it also has more ground clearance - 180 millimeters compared to 164 millimeters of KIA. That is, the operation of Skoda in many cases will be more profitable and convenient for the driver.
The suspension of the car also plays an important role. In this regard, as tests have shown, the Czech manufacturer also wins. As for the gearbox, it has a robotic seven-speed. Korean developers decided to equip their vehicle with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Specifications are important details that can give a potential buyer an idea about a car. It is best to pay attention to them first of all, so that later you do not need to frequently repair the purchased car. After that, it is worth evaluating the reliability of the body. First of all, this applies to those cases when the vehicle will be operated in difficult road conditions.
Conclusion
When choosing which car to purchase - KIA Soul or Skoda Yeti, it is necessary to conduct a comparative analysis between them. It helps to identify all the most important distinguishing features of each of the vehicles. This is important in view of the fact that this choice depends on how the car will correspond to the parameters declared by the manufacturer, as well as the desires and needs of the buyer. Be sure to conduct a test drive before purchasing, which can make it clear much more than just viewing the car.
Video footage
Video wiring - car comparison
Anton Vorotnikov test drive Kia Soul
More test drive about Kia Soul
So and so production about Skoda Yeti
Review of the pre-styled Yeti from Academician
“Yesterday, five were very big. And today there are three, but small. Now imagine the experiences of the hero of the famous miniature Mikhail Zhvanetsky about crayfish, if "large" and "small" cost the same. Our case! The new Nissan Qashqai and the updated Kia Sportage are more compact than the MazdaCX-5 and Toyota RAV4 - the difference in length is from 10 to 19 cm. And the "small" Skoda Yeti is four decimeters shorter than the largest. But the starting prices for all-wheel drive versions of all five crossovers with gasoline engines of about 150 hp practically the same. Unless those that are smaller will be richer equipped. However, the key issue is the same as in the case of cancers. Which is better: those of today or those of yesterday?
The bigger the car, the more spacious? Yes, but... On the one hand, Toyota is out of competition in this quintet: you sit in the back like in a business class. You can also take a nap, tilting the back of the sofa back like an airplane, you can cross your legs. The remaining four are tighter. But thanks to the vertical landing, the most compact Skoda in terms of space for passengers is no worse than Mazda, Nissan and Kia - a person with a height of 176 cm behind the same driver has a margin of more than ten centimeters in front of his knees!
Moreover, if it is comfortable to sit in the CX-5 and Yeti, then the Qashqai and Sportage, as they agreed, offer a low landing like a grasshopper, with knees up.
The new Qashqai is like a diet hamburger: it looks appetizing, but it tastes bland
0 / 0
And the trunks? We measured their volumes with the help of "calibrated" balls, and ... Here the connection with the length of the body is direct: Skoda holds only 343 "ball" liters and can only be compared with Nissan (404 l) and Kia (413 l), only if move forward or completely dismantle the three rear separate seats. By the way, only Yeti has such an opportunity, as well as an optional folding front seat.
"Fat!" - the highest praise for Qashqai from the aggressively progressive youth. A bizarre composition of pliable plastic, glossy decor and "fittings" of the new Teana looks rich
But even having infringed on the freedom of passengers to the limit and having received the treasured 447 liters under the curtain, you still cannot load as much belongings into Skoda as Mazda (540 l) or Toyota (537 l) allow. Moreover, the RAV4 has an optional fifth door electric drive, and the loading height is significantly less. Since the spring of this year, Russian “rafiks” have been equipped with a dokatka: the trunk floor has lowered, there is no longer a hump of a full-size spare wheel.
Without a week 3 years ago, I moved to this car. The age is small and, as it turned out, not critical in terms of reliability, at least for my copy.
In mid-April, the dealer had a suspension diagnosis, which did not reveal any problems. I was pleasantly surprised by this circumstance. The suspension has a good safety margin.
Also, the dealer eliminated the chirping in the glove compartment from the fuel pipes (a little annoying childhood sore). Connected vag-com a few weeks earlier and looked for errors. Nothing! The car is in perfect order.
Strengths:
- I consider the main advantage that the Skoda Yeti for these 3 years has not bothered me at all. Good car!
Weak sides:
- 2010 and 2011 build years cars have a lot of "childhood sores". In my case, the local dealer successfully fought them.
Review of Skoda Yeti 1.2 (Skoda Yeti) 2011 Part 4
It's been a year since the last review. Mileage has already exceeded 45,000 km. Despite the reviews of all the spiteful critics about the products of the VAG, the car did not bother with problems, although it also failed to avoid “childish” sores. Perhaps I'll start with them.
The main problem is swelling of the door paint below the molding. The first time was on the driver's side. The dealer did the work without problems, but they did not stick the protective film well. On a second appeal, they said that this was a problematic place, but they re-glued it at their own expense. In mid-April 2013, after washing already gasped. Those doors that were painted looked deplorable. Plus, I found bubbles on the passenger side, but their appearance was in perfect order. Why did you paint? Went back to the dealer with my problem. Everything was filmed, everything was agreed. Additionally, they reported that the action will replace the door seals, which rubbed the paint on the racks. A couple of weeks later I went for a week to ride on a replacement Fabia. They did everything well. This time there were no problems with the protective film.
The second sore is the timing chain. In the spring, several times when starting the engine, a loud roar appeared. A couple of weeks before the end of the warranty came with a problem to the dealer. He spoke about his suspicions. They said they would let you know. A week later, a call - come tomorrow. They took the car without inspection and performed work on replacing the timing chain with a modernized one. When I picked up the car, the manager said that the work is being done at the first request of the client, there is no general action.
Strengths:
- Still a crossover, albeit a front-wheel drive
- Nimble 1.2 TSI engine
- Good running characteristics
- compact city car
Weak sides:
- Lots of childhood pain
Review of Skoda Yeti 1.8 (Skoda Yeti) 2012
I went to myself on a diesel pajero.
2005 mileage 180 thousand. Didn't rejoice. Traveled for 6 years. But he started to get tired. Big, vibrating. I'm getting old. Hard. Yes, and I straightened it from all sides. I don't want to do any repairs. I wanted something small, light and gasoline. Well, I took a yeti. The test drive seemed to take an hour.
On this machine, too, traveled for a long time. 1.8 4na4. 43 thousand kilometers. At first, everything seemed to be as it should be. Design, interior, handling, ergonomics are just wonderful. Road holding is great. Light, torquey. Short-turn around without problems BUT! The suspension is stiff and feels flimsy. Any crack sticks into the back seat and gives all over the body. There is no strength buzzing. (Rubber-studded Pirelli). Made a double vibration-noise isolation (40 thousand rubles). A little better, but not by much. Just changed the tone of the hum. Became lower. On an ideal road, everything seems to be fine, but the rumble still gets it. And you leave the city and that's it .... a rattler.
Strengths:
- Controllability
- Pickup
- Ergonomics
- Excellent road holding
- Good interior build
Weak sides:
- Rigid. Feels like a flimsy suspension
- Poor vibration isolation
- Takes a long time to warm up
Review of Skoda Yeti 1.2 (Skoda Yeti) 2012
Hello everyone, I finally got to the computer and decided to write my review about my typewriter.
I'll start with how I decided to purchase this beast. I have little driving experience, this is my second car in my life, and I consider it necessary to say a few words about my first miracle, it was a 2006 Chevrolet Lanos. I chose and bought it myself, and at that time I knew absolutely nothing about cars, as a result I bought a copy beaten in a circle in a terrible technical condition, I owned it for three years, during this time I drove 8000 km and invested 200,000 rubles in it , after all the torment, the car was sold and vowed to himself never to mess with used cars again.
And now I am looking for a new horse, I did not make any special requirements, but there were a number of parameters when choosing: high ground clearance and a price of no more than 1,000,000 rubles and the absence of a clutch pedal. Quite a few cars fell into this category, but the main options were the time-tested cat, an attractive hover 5 diesel with a gun, and a yeti with a robot. Frankly speaking, my wife and I wanted to buy a hover until the very last moment, there were only two doubts - this is that the main drive is rear-wheel drive and this is China. Although a test drive and just an inspection of the car gave her 100 points, but it was in Moscow, upon arrival from vacation in Murmansk, it turned out that while the hover was driving, it went up by 50,000 rubles and its price with all the necessary preparations for the car became 970,000 rubles. In this regard, right from the Great Wall salon, I went to the Skoda salon and four months later, exactly by the end of November 2012, I took from the salon of my white Bigfoot 1.2 TSI DSG ambishin configuration with dopami.
Strengths:
- Small on the outside, spacious on the inside
- frisky motor
- Great robot
- Interior transformation system
- High-quality materials finishing and assembly of the car
Weak sides:
