IF versatility, practicality, style and performance are all key factors when looking for a new car then the Skoda Yeti might be the perfect option.

Add in the razzmatazz of the all-singing, all-dancing Monte Carlo spec and you could have the perfect all-rounder.

In fairness, the multi award-winning Yeti is a great looking car in standard format but the extra kit that Monte Carlo models introduce cannot fail to impress.

It boasts 17-inch black alloys, bi-xenon headlights with cornering function, a black roof and door mirrors, a black front spoiler and rear diffuser, a black grille, LED daytime running lights, black-looking front fog lights, stainless steel tailpipe trims and plenty of distinctive Monte Carlo badging.

Step inside the five-door model and you are greeted by a stylish cabin packed with techno treats such as an easy-to-use sat nav system, heated front seats, a three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with red contrast stitching, dual zone air conditioning with humidity sensor, a six-CD changer and radio with MP3 compatibility, sports seats with Monte Carlo upholstery, cruise control and plenty more besides.

The interior is incredibly spacious and can easily accommodate four adults (five at a push) and luggage restrictions need not apply either as the generously-sized boot can cater for 416 litres of luggage - a capacity that can easily be increased to 1,760 litres thanks to 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats.

Elsewhere there are plenty of handy storage options scattered throughout the cabin, including practically-sized cup holders, deep door pockets capable of holding large water bottles, a central bin and a concealed tray on top of the dashboard.

So the Yeti Monte Carlo certainly looks the part and is packed with creature comforts, but how does it perform when put to the test? The answer is very well indeed.

Powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, it can sprint from 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and tops out at 122mph. According to official figures, it can achieve combined fuel efficiency of 44.8mpg with carbon emissions of 164g/km.

This Yeti featured a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox which was beautifully smooth and responsive and a Sport setting cranked up the excitement by sharpening up the car's handling and driving dynamics.

Despite its size the Yeti is deceptively agile and the road-holding is also impressive meaning sweeping country lanes pose no threats.

In busy city centres the high seated driving position is a real bonus as it offers the driver excellent all-round visibility and parking is also made simpler thanks to rear parking sensors.

Then out on faster roads, the Yeti is a capable performer and can easily keep pace with fast-moving motorway traffic. There is a little wind noise from the door mirrors when moving at a pace, but engine and road surface sounds are kept to a minimum - which again is impressive for a vehicle of the Yeti's size.

Comfort levels are excellent and the high roofline, along with large rear windows mean back seat passengers are treated to lots of light and space.

As one would expect, the Yeti is kitted out with a comprehensive array of safety specifications and it's also worth noting that the test car boasted 4x4 capabilities which will be vital during those cold winter months if Mother Nature gets her way.