The Skoda Yeti Outdoor is the more expensive of the two Yeti versions on test this year. This model, with its 168bhp engine, four-wheel drive and the Direct Shift Gearbox, is close to the top of the range.

With plenty of muscle for towing, the Yeti Outdoor runs some of the more expensive cars in this class close for performance. Pulling a caravan from 30-60mph took just 12.4 seconds, although you hear the engine working loudly.

High-speed stability is reassuring, with our test drivers finding the Yeti secure at 60mph and only moving slightly between 60mph and 70mph in crosswinds. The lane-change test was rather tougher, with both car and caravan sliding around on faster runs on damp tarmac. It’s worth noting that our test car was fitted with all-season tyres. It may have found more grip on summer rubber.

The Yeti was more at home in the hill start. The handbrake held without excessive force and the Skoda pulled to the top of hill with ease.

In day-to-day driving the Skoda’s ride is on the firm side, although the trade-off is nimble handling. Few crossovers of this size are as much fun to drive as the Yeti.

A bigger boot would have helped the Skoda’s practicality score.