SEAT Toledo Range

SEATs Toledo Has Evolved And How. Andy Enright Takes A Look At The Radically Changed Latest Model

Quite how the unapologetically family-friendly design of SEATs latest Toledo squares with their sporty aspirations has yet to become wholly apparent - to this observer at least. It was one thing to get an Altea mini-MPV with upright, practical styling but the Toledo had always been something a little more dynamic. It seems that SEAT have swapped dynamism for utility in their latest Toledo - but is this really a move to be lamented?

Think about it. The vast majority of cars in this sector arent bought by frustrated racing drivers. Theyre snapped up by people with families looking for value, safety and design flair. The problem as I see it is that the Toledo no longer knows quite what category its trying to compete in.

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From the exterior youd have to say its going up against mini-MPVs like the Renault Scenic, the Vauxhall Zafira and the Citroen C4 Picasso but the interior is nowhere near as spacious as any of these dedicated MPV-style vehicles. At first glance, it would appear the Toledo has managed to fall between two stools. Look a littler closer however, and you begin to see SEATs logic. In giving buyers of medium range family hatches that little bit extra without compromising too much on handling, SEAT could be onto something.

The styling of the Toledo is similar to that of the Altea (and indeed to the next generation Leon), and marks a departure from the model introduced in 1998 insofar as it features a hatchback as in the original 1991 car. SEAT have tried to combine the practicality of the hatch with the notchback styling of the Toledo to good effect. There even seems to be some elements of Mazda RX-8 in the rear three-quarter design. Like all of the latest SEAT models, it features the dynamic line, a design feature that runs from the front wheel arch along the doors and descends to the rear wheel.

"In giving buyers that little bit extra versatility without compromising too much on handling, SEAT could be onto something"

At 4.50 metres long and 1.77 metres wide, the Toledo is longer but narrower than the crop of proper mini-MPVs but features many of their attributes. A two-level luggage compartment boasts a hefty 500 litre capacity more than enough for a week away.

The parcel shelf can be configured in a couple of positions to offer added versatility. In high position, it houses a hidden compartment while if set low, you can create a hidden floor. Although its durability may be called into question, its a good way of keeping your valuables away from prying eyes. Side compartments with elasticated nets provide easy and safe storage for fragile items.

SEAT have worked hard to make the Toledo as innovative as possible and one such development is the fitment of Bluetooth technology. This allows a wireless connection between a mobile phone and the car itself. The multi-function steering wheel features buttons whereby calls can be accepted, disconnected and voice recognition. When using this function, the driver can verbally place a call to a number or name or save names and numbers to the phone book, all the while keeping both hands on the wheel.

The audio system is fully integrated into the centre console of the dashboard and features a slot for standard or MP3 format discs. As well as offering traction control, emergency brake assist and anti-lock brakes, the Toledo features a Bosch ESP stability control package. Six airbags are fitted as standard, comprising driver and passenger, side and head bags. There are also three-point seatbelts for all five seats with pyrotechnic pretensioners at the front and the ISOFIX child seat fixing system in the back.

Electro-mechanical power steering and the SEAT-developed Agile Chassis combine with a multi link rear axle to offer driving characteristics that are a cut above the usual mini-MPV fare. Prices start from £12,922 and there are three trim levels Reference, Stylance and Sport. Four engines are offered. The petrol powerplant is a budget 102bhp 1.

6-litre, while diesel buyers can choose from either a 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI or the entry-level 105bhp 1.9. The 2.

0-litre engine is offered with a six-speed manual gearbox or the option of the twin-clutch DSG 6-speed box. The interior is nicely detailed, if not quite so radical as the exterior. The instruments sit in deep cowls and are trimmed in satin aluminium effect, this trim extending to the high level centre console. Twinned with the three spoke steering wheel and figure-hugging seats, it gives a rather sporting feel that seems at odds with the elevated seating position.

The switches and minor controls feel up to the usual Volkswagen Group standard and its possible to specify a very effective satellite navigation system with colour LCD screen. The dash top is trimmed in a dimpled rubberised material and the whole of the upper dash is supported on Audi TT style metallic struts that in turn frame a neatly chunky gear stick. The windscreen pillars are a little too chunky for my personal taste but otherwise visibility is good. The SEAT Toledo is a car that may spark a whole host of copycats.

In offering a mini-MPV style silhouette and practicality with the dynamics of a normal family hatch, it will either significantly change this sector of the market or be a rather costly dead end for the Spanish company.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: SEAT Toledo range
PRICES: £12,922-£18,012 - on the road
INSURANCE GROUPS: 6-10
CO2 EMISSIONS: 149-200g/km
PERFORMANCE: [2.0 FSI] Max Speed 128mph / 0-60mph 9.7s (est)
FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.0 FSI] (urban) 26.9 (extra urban) 44.8 (combined) 36.2mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front, side and window airbags / ABS / EBA, ISOFIX child seat fixings
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Widthmm 4500/1770