SEAT Cordoba

By Craig Cheetham

March 2003

• Latest deal price: from £6,433 to £9,606

Priced ΂£9,995, the 1.4 S is the starkest model in the new range, but it still has plenty of tempting features. Standard kit is generous, and includes twin airbags, ABS, emergency brake assist, electrically operated front windows, air-conditioning, a single-slot CD player and remote central locking. Compare that with the similar Rover 45 1.4ie, for example, and you'll soon see that the SEAT provides a much more comprehensive package for the money - bringing the ΂£9,995 Rover up to a comparative specification would set you back an additional ΂£2,060.

The argument falls further in the Cordoba's favour when you consider the driving experience. The engine isn't particularly lively, nor is it noisy, yet it's refined at speed and responsive round town. Factor in the light but precise steering and a ride quality you'd expect from models in a higher class, and the car looks terrific value for money.

We've noted in the past that some models in the Cordoba line-up seem overpriced compared with the competition, but the base car isn't among them. Its build quality, enormous boot, affordability and wealth of standard features make it our favourite in the range.