Skoda Yeti I facelift (5L) (2013 – 2017)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Skoda Yeti I phase 2 (Type 5L), facelifted at the end of 2013, loses its original round headlights to adopt a more angular front fascia, in line with the brand's new style. It is then available in two versions: an urban version (painted bumpers) and an 'Outdoor' version (black plastic protections, skid plates). This compact SUV shines with its exceptional roominess and modularity inherited from MPVs, notably thanks to the VarioFlex system of independent and removable rear seats. Mechanically, the 2013-2017 period marks a crucial transition: the gradual shift from Euro 5 engines (EA111 generation for petrol, EA189 for diesel) to Euro 6 engines (EA211 for petrol, EA288 for diesel) during 2015, which has a major impact on the model's overall reliability. Data from ADAC and TÜV confirm tha

✅ Strengths

Exceptional modularity (independent, sliding, and removable VarioFlex rear seats)
Very positive overall reliability record according to TÜV (14% defect rate at 3 years, among the best compact SUVs)
Robust build and finish quality, aging very well
Excellent all-round visibility thanks to vertical glazing
Efficiency of the 4x4 transmission (5th generation Haldex system)
Safe and secure road handling

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the 1.8 TSI engine (oil consumption, piston rings)
DSG7 automatic gearbox (dry-clutch DQ200) temperamental and fragile on smaller engines
Soundproofing could be improved on the highway (wind noise due to the cubic profile)
Firm suspension, especially with 17-inch wheels
Average boot volume (416 liters) if the rear seats are pushed back to the maximum

🎯 Verdict

The facelifted Skoda Yeti is an extremely appealing, practical, and overall very reliable compact SUV, as evidenced by its excellent scores with ADAC (2.2 breakdowns/1000 veh/year) and TÜV. However, the choice of engine is absolutely crucial. We highly recommend the 1.2 TSI 110 hp petrol versions (post-2015, EA211 engine) for daily use, or the very robust 2.0 TDI (140 or 150 hp) for high mileage drivers and all-wheel drive enthusiasts. On the other hand, you must avoid the 1.8 TSI due to its serious piston ring problems (excessive oil consumption), and be extremely vigilant about the condition of the DSG7 (DQ200) automatic gearbox on smaller engines. Prefer a manual gearbox or the DSG6 (paired with the 2.0 TDI and 1.8 TSI 4x4 engines).