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SEAT Arona - best crossovers and small SUVs

The SEAT Arona combines practicality with respectable driving dynamics to make it a great all-rounder

by: Auto Express team

23 Oct 2019

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So the SEAT Arona isn’t technically a 4x4, but it’s certainly an SUV and it’s one of the better ones too.

Rather than off-road capability, the Arona focuses on driving engagement and while not many SUVs are particularly fun to drive, the Arona makes a decent attempt to make you smile behind the wheel.

• SEAT Arona review

Two petrol offerings come in the shape of a 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder with 94bhp or 114bhp and there’s a diesel 1.6-litre unit also with 94bhp or 114bhp. There’s a 1.5-litre TSI with 148bhp, but the 1.0-litre three-cylinder models are more fuel efficient, cost less to buy and, with the non-FR suspension, are more comfortable.

The interior doesn’t boast the most exciting design but there’s plenty of equipment and the infotainment system is class-leading with even the most basic Arona getting a 5-inch touchscreen. In terms of space, the Arona is pretty average, with 823-litre boot when the rear seats are lowered. Headroom is great for rear passengers but they may short of legroom if the front passengers are tall.