Quarter final 4

Entrants
WINNER: Skoda Superb (£16,665-£27,875)
WINNER Skoda Superb 

RUNNER-UP: Skoda Yeti (£13,990-£22,635)
Our choice: 1.2 TSI S

What a bad draw for Skoda! The Czech brand has two models in the quarter finals – and they’ve been pitted against one another. On the plus side, it does at least guarantee the company a presence in the semis… but which car will win through?

The Yeti is the underdog. It’s the firm’s first-ever compact SUV, although it doesn’t show. From its chunky looks and practical cabin to its attractive prices and interesting engines, the Yeti is set to become a common sight in the UK. The entry-level model features a 1.2-litre engine, but don’t be put off – the smooth TSI unit is a brilliant powerplant. In two-wheel-drive trim,it results in combined economy of 44.1mpg and emissions of 149g/km.

Its opponent has an equally talented squad of engines at its disposal, from the VW Group’s 1.4-litre turbo to its latest 2.0-litre common-rail diesel.

It’s big, too. Measuring 4.8 metres long, the Superb is huge inside. Rear legroom is even more generous than you’ll find in the Yeti, and the boot provides a massive 565 litres of space.

The twin-opening tailgate is a bit of a gimmick and opens as both a saloon or, at the touch of a button, a hatchback. The former method lets you access the load area without disturbing the calm of the interior, but it’s of limited value.

If there is clear air between the cars when it comes to space, there’s barely a cigarette paper between them on the road. The sharp car-like dynamics of the Yeti impress, and the Superb only trumps it for comfort and refinement.

Both are also available with 4x4 transmissions, and they share the same dealer network and reputation for customer satisfaction. So which car makes it through? In the end, the extra space and refinement of the Superb are enough, but the Yeti is unlucky – if it had met any of our other quarter finalists, Skoda could have had two cars in the semis…