Seat Exeo (From Epsom Guardian)

Seat Exeo

4:21pm Thursday 12th November 2009

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Overall

rating: 3 stars

If Seat's family saloon looks familiar that's probably because it is. The Exeo is based on the last generation Audi A4: in fact, apart from the engines and the front and rear styling, it is almost identical.

This is Seat making the most of being owned by the VW Group. Sharing components, platforms and shipping in factory machinery from sibling brand Audi has allowed the Spanish marque to launch a new model into the family saloon market very quickly. The Exeo took just two years to develop.

But knowing the Exeo is a reworked version of something old shouldn't put you off. In fact, it may encourage you to look more closely at the Seat - because in some ways buying an Exeo is like getting an Audi on the cheap.

The Exeo has all of the old A4's refinement, its robust build quality and comfortable cabin, and it feels like a much more premium offering than you would ever expect from Seat.

So what's new? Along with the modified looks and a different badge, Seat has brought in the VW Group's latest engines, which all comply with current emissions standards.

The most popular models in Britain will be the two 2.0-litre TDI diesels, available with either 141bhp or 169bhp. Both versions are impressively fuel-efficient, the lower powered alternative returning 51.4mpg combined while still delivering adequate grunt. A spicier 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine will account for less than ten percent of UK Exeo sales, but delivers a much more impressive turn of speed than either diesel.

Like the old Audi it's based on, the Exeo pitches and rolls too much if you pick the wrong suspension option. Comfort spec is too soft. Sport is the only real choice for our rutted UK roads. It gives the Exeo significantly more body control and will prevent your passengers getting motion sickness.

Dynamically, the Exeo is beaten by thoroughly modern rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Mazda 6. So those looking for the occasional fast blast in their family car need to look elsewhere.

Instead the Exeo is a no-nonsense model that's solid, robust, efficient, safe, and different from a Ford or Vauxhall - but no more exciting than either.

What's to like

1. That it's an Audi on the cheap
2. Spacious interior and generous spec
3. Modern efficient and relatively clean engines

What's not to like

1. Unexciting looks
2. Lack of dynamic ability
3. That it offers nothing new

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