SEAT Exeo Saloon (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 21 February 2011
The Exeo (pronounced ex-ay-o) is SEAT's first executive-sized saloon but if you're thinking it looks familiar then you'd be right. It is based heavily on the 2005 Audi A4, but that's not a bad thing. It means the Exeo is good to drive, rides comfortable and is well built. The interior is actually taken from the A4 Convertible and adds an upmarket edge to the four-door saloon, while a decent-sized boot makes it a good option as a family car. The range of engines isn't huge, but the main 2.0-litre diesel is available in three different power outputs, providing a choice for those wanting outright economy or extra performance. It's well equipped and good value too, giving it an edge over more established saloons.
4 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Buying new

The Exeo is competitively priced and when compared to premium saloons from BMW and Audi looks an attractive package, especially considering the generous standard equipment levels. If you can't quite stretch to an A4, it's a good compromise. It's still worth aiming for a discount or alternatively try and get some options included in the final price.

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4 out of 5

Buying used

The most common model is the 2.0 TDI 143bhp Sport, which gets plenty of kit including parking sensors, cruise control and 18-inch alloys. It also get sports suspension, although this could have been deleted in favour of a standard suspension set-up. Few buyers opt for this but its worth checking - a lower ride height will be the biggest indication. If you don't intend to cover large distances, the petrol engine could be a cheaper alternative.

  • Boot/Load Space SEAT Exeo Saloon (09 on)
  • Interior SEAT Exeo Saloon (09 on)

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See 71 used SEAT Exeo Saloons for sale, starting at £6,995

3 out of 5

Selling

SEAT has a growing reputation, especially among younger buyers, for sporty cars. It's not had a saloon like the Exeo before though, so a lack of awareness may be the biggest hurdle when finding a buyer. The fact it's based on an Audi A4 will be a great selling point, as will the high levels of standard equipment.