Skoda launches new Yeti at Rs. 19 lakh; to revamp its after-sales services

Czech automaker Skoda, on Monday, launched a refreshed model of its SUV, Yeti, and said it plans to focus on its existing catalogue of Rapid, Octavia, Superb and Yeti over the next two years without entering any other segment. Skoda had phased out its compact car Fabia from India last year.

The company is also looking to revamp its after-sales service network to boost its image and sales. Over the past few years, the company has been facing many service related complaints.

Skoda officials said they have recognised the problems and have taken steps to solve them. "Starting next year, we will go for really big change, which every customer coming to our service workshop will see. We will revamp the dealership to make it more service oriented," said Pawel Szuflak, director, sales, service and marketing, Skoda Auto India.

The new Yeti will be priced at ₹ 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom) Delhi for the 4x2 variant while the all-wheel drive version will cost ₹ 20.54 lakh. The SUV has undergone several cosmetic changes on the outside, including new front and rear bumpers, bixenon headlamps. On the inside it includes safety features such as six airbags, cruise control and anti-lock braking system.

The SUV will have only one variant called Elegance as more and more of its customers are buying top-end models, The company said, and added that the focus going ahead would be on 'value luxury' products and that would take precedence over driving volumes.