At Car Articles, we are avid fans of all motors. We are definitely not brand or badge snobs and we firmly believe there is merit to be found in most cars. This is the reason why we bucked the trend of choosing something exotic and hugely expensive. This year, we genuinely thought of what people could reasonably afford, that has appeal and is a capable all rounder. For this reason, we have named the SEAT Ateca the Car Articles Car of the Year 2016!
It the first SUV from the Spanish marque, but what a starter for ten. It is a great family car, offering practicality, value and style in abundance. Few other cars in the segment can match the Ateca across these areas so consistently. Handy new tech is also fitted, including a wireless phone charger, Full Link technology for seamless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree parking camera and a Virtual Pedal, which allows the boot to be opened, and closed hands-free, simply by waggling a foot underneath the rear bumper.
There are four trim options available as standard, including the S, SE, Xcellence and First Edition cars. Each one comes with a further upgrade than the last, but even basic trim levels come with alloys, air con, daytime running lights a touch screen, split-folding rear seats, plus a leather steering wheel and gearknob. What’s not to like?
Five engines round off the options list for this Leon based SUV, including two petrols and three diesels. Our pick of the bunch would remain the 2 litre diesel with 190 BHP – this should ensure more than enough shove to provide fast passing on motorways. The 1.6 diesel however is worth considering to keep those emissions down.
SEAT has long been known for offering cars with strong driving dynamics and the Ateca is no different to the norm. It has a firm but supple ride that offers genuine involvement for the driver. This is achieved through steering inputs that are precise and fast to react to input. It is a genuinely appealing proposition.
Prices on the road for the SEAT Ateca begin at around £18,000 and go up to £30,000 for a high spec model. It may be another SUV, but it is a particularly good, particularly reasonably priced one that offers something for every drive. We absolutely recommend it.
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