Spain's Volkswagen division Seat has just launched the new Exeo saloon and ST estate here. The plan is to make an impact in the more conservative family car class with a stylish offering that comes with proven underpinnings.
Fuel economy and exhaust emissions, both important considerations for private and business buyers alike, are commendable. For example, depending on engine, the Exeo is capable of up to 51.4mpg (on the combined cycle ) with an official CO2 emissions figure of as little as 143g/km.
Safety and security are comprehensively catered for. ESP and EBA are universal features, in addition to active front head restraints, rear-seat ISOFIX points, six airbags, volumetric alarm with tilt sensor, and remote central locking.
Quality at every step of the car’s design and construction is a key advantage for the Exeo which recently made its debut here. Meticulous attention to detail, allied to that generous standard equipment, combine to give the four-door a touch of real luxury.
The new Exeo range includes all Euro V-compliant engines. The line-up includes three 2.0 litre common rail turbo-diesels producing 120bhp, with the saloon starting at €26,190 and Band B road tax of €156 pa. The ST estate starts at €27,745 with a Band C road tax of €302 pa. The diesel line-up is completed by 143bhp (Band B in saloon and C in the ST estate ) and 170bhp (Band C ) versions.
There is also a 1.6 litre (102bhp ) petrol model as well as a potent 2.0 litre, 200bhp turbocharged petrol. The 1.6 litre saloon and ST estate have starting prices of €26,690 and €28,245 respectively. Unfortunately, with CO2 values of 175 and 179g/km, both attract Band E road tax of €630pa.
They are all mated, as standard, to a six-speed manual gearbox and all endow the Exeo with spirited performance.
At launch, the 1.6 litre petrol model aside, the new Seat saloon’s 0 to 62mph times range from 9.2 seconds for the 143bhp TDI through 8.4 seconds for the 170bhp TDI. The 200bhp TSI petrol-powered version boasts a distinctly spirited 7.3 seconds.
Measuring 4.67 metres in length and boasting a boot capacity of 442 litres, the Exeo ST estate brings a good level of practicality, elegance and sporting style to its market segment. Seat uses the body of the previous-generation Audi A4 Avant, and the ST stands for sports tourer. The boot lid gives a wide opening for access.
The Irish distribution of Seat has been taken over by Volkswagen Group Ireland from distributor Hispano Cars. The arrival of the Exeo saloon and ST estate, as well as the earlier launch of the new Ibiza SC and five-door version, and the expected arrival of the face-lifted 2010 Leon next week, bodes well for better times ahead for Seat customers.
