Skip advert
Advertisement

Seat Exeo 2.0 TDI

Is Audi-inspired saloon a hit on British roads?

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your SEAT Exeo
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The SEAT Exeo is by no means a groundbreaking car, but it gives buyers an interesting alternative to mainstream rivals such as the Ford Mondeo. It’s a likeable family model with classy looks and a prestige feel, while the diesel engine is great and the driving experience entertaining. But although the Sport-trimmed variant we drove is well equipped, it’s pricey. We’d advise buyers to look further down the range.

Advertisement - Article continues below

New from the ground up, the latest Mazda 3 (here) is a worthy rival for class leaders such as Ford’s Focus. But can you take a short cut to success? SEAT is certainly hoping so with its Exeo, which is based on the previous-generation Audi A4.

We were impressed with the newcomer when we drove it in Issue 1,052, yet how does it fare on UK roads? Well, while the Spanish firm has taken a lot of criticism for its approach, you can’t argue with the results.

On the move, the Exeo is very good, thanks to the VW Group’s latest 141bhp 2.0 TDI diesel. It’s an excellent engine, pulling smoothly from 1,500rpm, taking the car from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds and returning 51.4mpg combined.

Our Sport model is pricey and has a firm ride, but decent damping and superb handling with precise steering and composed body control. It feels like an old A4 – no bad thing.

Inside, the dash comes from the previous A4 Cabriolet, and is of better quality than in the saloon. Switchgear is a little dated and rear legroom tight, but the car is comfortable to drive and there’s plenty of kit to play with. The seats split/fold 60:40 to increase practicality, too. So while the Exeo may be a short cut to success, it makes sense.

Rival: Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI
In Elegance trim, this Skoda is £1,785 cheaper than the Exeo, but just as well equipped. It features the same engine and is more practical, too.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,295
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,361 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,763 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,733 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month
Cupra Terramar - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month

The Cupra Terramar is an appealing family SUV that looks stylish but offers plenty of practicality. It’s our Deal of the Day for July 5
News
5 Jul 2025
New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life
Volvo XC60 facelift - front tracking

New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life

This refreshed Swedish SUV focuses on familiar areas of strength to take on BMW and Audi
Road tests
4 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month
MG ZS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month

The MG ZS is an easy car to like and live with. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 July
News
3 Jul 2025