SEAT Exeo

Expert Rating:

Introduction

SEAT moves into the junior exec market for the first time with the new Exeo. It's no secret that the Exeo owes more than a little to the outgoing Audi A4, but that's hardly a bad thing. Can German engineering combine with some Mediterranean flair to produce a surprise new contender?

What are its rivals?

Given its roots, SEAT may claim that the Exeo stands up to comparison with the premium marques in the form of BMW's 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz's C-Class and, somewhat ironically, the new Audi A4. However, SEAT has been more realistic in its pricing and in practice the second echelon, which contains the Mazda6, Ford Mondeo, Honda Accord and Vauxhall Insignia, is well within the Exeo's sights. Overall, it's no surprise that it falls a little short of the class leaders, but it merits favourable comparison with the majority of the class.

How does it drive?

SEAT has managed to persuade VAG's chiefs to hand over their latest common rail engines for the Exeo and reaped the benefits accordingly. The Exeo is smooth, refined, punchy and economical courtesy of the fresh powertrain and exceeds the efforts of the previous generation 'PD' turbodiesel engines.

In its preferred environment - namely the motorway - the more sporting bias in the suspension settings can make itself felt as the ride can be a little unsettled, but it actually feels like an improvement over the previous A4. On back roads the Exeo can be hustled as quickly as most would ever wish. The gearbox is slick and the steering, though heavy at low speeds, is accurate. At the limit, which arrives sooner than in the most accomplished of rivals, it does lose some composure and it tends to feel a little nose heavy. Thank the layout for that - the engine is quite far forward in the chassis.

What's impressive?

The quality the Exeo has inherited from Audi is evident just looking at it. From cabin finish and fit to the operation of the buttons on the dash the entire package has a high class feel that isn't common, even in this niche that oozes talent. Given the donor car, much is familiar with only minor changes to items like the font on the dials and the different gear knob and steering wheel trims being obvious changes; if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Given the completeness of the package the relative value of the Exeo shouldn't be underestimated. Some rival manufacturers strive for years to engineer what SEAT has cleverly obtained from its premium stable mate. The fact that it has managed the pricing structure so aggressively rubs salt into the wounds.

What's not?

When looking at the Exeo one has to bear in mind that Audi felt the need to replace the car upon which it shares its platform. In isolation the SEAT doesn't feel old, but the cabin - despite its quality - does feel slightly aged against fresher models. Also, as much as SEAT has gone to lengths to add its style to the A4 shape, it bears a remarkable resemblance to the old A4, particularly in profile. For some, this may be a negative.

Should I buy one?

Depending on your priority in life the Exeo may find itself ruled out instantly as it isn't the latest and greatest car in its class; it's contemporary, but nothing more. However, such short sighted perspective will deny prospective buyers the opportunity to own a car of sound breeding and good quality that all adds up to a well-rounded package at a bargain price.

Dave Jenkins