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The SEAT Ateca, a well-rounded and competent SUV, has been a popular choice among UK car buyers since its introduction in 2016. In this in-depth review, we will explore the features that make this Spanish gem stand out in a crowded market segment. From its unique features to the most popular trims, we will cover everything you need to know about the SEAT Ateca.
Bold Feature 1: Distinctive Design
One of the key factors that set the SEAT Ateca apart from its competitors is its distinctive design. With sharp lines, angular features, and a bold front grille, the Ateca stands out on the road. Its modern styling is not only eye-catching but also functional, offering excellent aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
Bold Feature 2: Efficient Engines
The SEAT Ateca offers a wide range of engine choices, with both petrol and diesel options available. These engines are known for their efficiency and performance, making the Ateca an enjoyable and cost-effective drive. The Ateca's engines are also compliant with the latest Euro 6 emission standards, ensuring they meet stringent environmental requirements.
Bold Feature 3: Practical Interior
The Ateca's interior is well-designed and highly practical, offering ample space for passengers and their belongings. The boot space is generous, with a capacity of 510 litres, which can be expanded to 1,604 litres when the rear seats are folded down. The cabin is filled with storage compartments, making it easy to keep everything organised and within reach.
Bold Feature 4: Advanced Safety Features
Safety is paramount in the SEAT Ateca, which boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The SUV comes with numerous advanced safety features, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Traffic Sign Recognition. These systems ensure that both the driver and passengers can enjoy a secure and comfortable journey.
Bold Feature 5: SEAT Drive Profile
The SEAT Drive Profile allows drivers to customise their driving experience according to their preferences and the road conditions. With a choice of four driving modes – Normal, Sport, Eco, and Individual – the Ateca's handling and performance can be tailored to suit any situation.
Bold Feature 6: Connectivity
The Ateca is equipped with the latest in-car technology, offering seamless connectivity through its Full Link system. This system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, allowing drivers to access their favourite apps, navigate, make calls, and more through the central infotainment display.
Bold Feature 7: Off-Road Capabilities
While the Ateca is primarily designed for urban driving, it is also capable of tackling off-road terrain when equipped with the 4Drive all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent system constantly monitors and adapts to the road conditions, ensuring optimal traction and stability in all situations.
Bold Feature 8: Warranty and Reliability
SEAT is known for its reliability, and the Ateca is no exception. The SUV comes with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty as standard, providing peace of mind for used car buyers. Additionally, the Ateca has a strong reputation for reliability, with few reported issues from owners.
Popular Trim 1: SE
The SE trim offers a well-rounded package, with standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and dual-zone climate control. Additionally, the SE trim comes with rear parking sensors, cruise control, and LED daytime running lights.
Popular Trim 2: SE Technology
The SE Technology trim builds upon the features of the SE trim, enhancing the Ateca's technology offerings. It includes an upgraded navigation system, a larger 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and full-LED headlights. Furthermore, the SE Technology trim comes with front parking sensors and a more advanced connectivity suite, providing a more convenient driving experience for tech-savvy buyers.
Popular Trim 3: FR
The sporty FR trim brings a more dynamic look and feel to the Ateca. It features 18-inch alloy wheels, a sporty body kit, twin exhaust pipes, and sports suspension. Inside, the FR trim includes sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and ambient lighting.
Popular Trim 4: XCELLENCE
The XCELLENCE trim is the epitome of luxury and comfort in the Ateca lineup. It adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, and keyless entry. Additionally, it comes with advanced safety features such as a rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Popular Trim 5: FR Sport
The FR Sport trim takes the sporty FR package to the next level, adding 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive sports suspension, and a digital cockpit. The interior benefits from suede-like Alcantara upholstery and aluminium pedals, enhancing the sporty feel.
Reason 1: Value for Money
A used SEAT Ateca offers excellent value for money, with depreciation making it an affordable option for those in the market for a quality SUV. With a range of engine options and trim levels, there's an Ateca to suit every budget and preference.
Reason 2: Fuel Efficiency
The Ateca's engine lineup is known for its fuel efficiency, ensuring that running costs are kept low. This is especially important for UK buyers who are conscious of rising fuel prices and tightening emission regulations.
Reason 3: Practicality and Versatility
The SEAT Ateca is a practical choice for families or those in need of extra space. With a roomy cabin, ample boot space, and numerous storage compartments, the Ateca is ideal for those who need a versatile vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Reason 4: Safety and Reliability
The Ateca's five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and strong reliability reputation make it an appealing option for those who prioritise safety and dependability in a used car. The SUV's advanced safety features and solid build quality ensure that drivers and passengers are well-protected.
Reason 5: Stylish Design
The SEAT Ateca's distinctive design sets it apart from other SUVs in the market, making it an attractive option for those who want a stylish and modern vehicle. The Ateca's sharp lines and angular features give it a sporty and contemporary appearance that is sure to turn heads.
Alternative 1: Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai is a popular alternative to the SEAT Ateca, offering a comfortable ride, attractive design, and a range of efficient engines. The Qashqai is also known for its practicality and user-friendly technology.
Alternative 2: Ford Kuga
The Ford Kuga is another strong contender in the SUV segment, boasting a spacious interior, engaging driving dynamics, and a wide range of engine choices. The Kuga's reputation for reliability and its extensive dealer network make it a popular choice among UK buyers.
Alternative 3: Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan shares some components with the SEAT Ateca, as both vehicles are part of the Volkswagen Group. The Tiguan offers a more premium feel, with a high-quality interior and a refined driving experience, but it typically comes with a higher price tag.
Alternative 4: Peugeot 3008
The Peugeot 3008 is a stylish and distinctive choice in the SUV market, with a futuristic design and an innovative digital cockpit. The 3008 also offers a comfortable ride and a range of efficient engines, making it an appealing alternative to the Ateca
Alternative 5: Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage is a well-rounded option for those considering alternatives to the SEAT Ateca. It offers a comfortable and spacious interior, a range of efficient engines, and an impressive seven-year warranty. The Sportage's appealing design and competitive pricing make it a popular choice among UK buyers.
In conclusion, the SEAT Ateca is a versatile, stylish, and practical SUV that offers a range of features that make it stand out in the crowded UK market. With a selection of efficient engines, various trim levels, and a reputation for safety and reliability, a used Ateca is a great purchase for those in search of a quality family vehicle. While there are several popular alternatives available, the Ateca remains a strong contender and should be on any car buyer's shortlist.
A Short History of the SEAT Ateca
The SEAT Ateca, a compact SUV from the Spanish car manufacturer, has quickly become a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and practical vehicle. Since its inception, the Ateca has offered drivers a unique blend of performance, technology, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the competitive SUV market. Let's take a brief look at the history of this beloved car.
2016: Launch of the SEAT Ateca
The Ateca made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, marking SEAT's entry into the compact SUV segment. Named after a small village in Spain, the Ateca was based on the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, which it shared with vehicles like the VW Tiguan and the Skoda Karoq. The Ateca's sharp lines and distinctive design set it apart from its competitors, while its spacious interior and practical features made it an instant hit with families and urban dwellers alike.
2016-2018: Expansion of the Ateca Range
Following the initial launch, SEAT expanded the Ateca range to offer more options for buyers. In 2017, the sporty FR trim was introduced, boasting a more aggressive appearance, sports suspension, and exclusive alloy wheels. Later that year, the Ateca XCELLENCE trim was also unveiled, featuring luxury amenities like a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and advanced driver assistance systems.
2018: Introduction of the Ateca Cupra
In 2018, the performance-focused Cupra brand, previously a part of SEAT, was spun off into its own separate entity. The Ateca became the first model to wear the new Cupra badge, featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 296 bhp, all-wheel drive, and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of just 5.2 seconds. The Cupra Ateca offered performance-hungry drivers an exciting alternative to traditional hot hatches while maintaining the practicality and space of an SUV.
2020: Facelift and Enhanced Technology
In 2020, the Ateca received a mid-cycle facelift, bringing subtle design updates, new LED headlights, and an upgraded infotainment system. The interior also saw improvements, with higher-quality materials and new connectivity features, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the Ateca gained enhanced safety technology, including adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and blind-spot monitoring.
The Ateca Today
As of 2023, the SEAT Ateca continues to be a popular choice for drivers seeking a stylish and versatile compact SUV. Its blend of practicality, performance, and affordability has made it a beloved option in the UK market, and the Ateca remains a strong contender against rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008, and Ford Kuga. With its dynamic design, feature-rich offerings, and continuous improvements, the SEAT Ateca's future looks promising.