Buyer’s guide to the Seat Tarraco

Buyer’s guide to the Seat Tarraco

We take a look at Seat’s large seven-seat SUV, which is ideal for families.

Compared to other manufacturers, Seat was comparatively late to start producing SUVs. But thanks to models such as the Ateca and Arona, the Spanish firm has quickly became a force to be reckoned with when it comes to producing models in this class.

Now, a third model has joined the line-up – the seven-seat Tarraco. This is Seat’s largest SUV, which is mechanically identical to the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace.

Here’s what you need to know before buying one.

What engines are available?

The Tarraco is offered with a number of petrol and diesel engines to suit most buyers.

The entry-level petrol engine is a 148bhp turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired to a six-speed manual gearbox and with power sent to the front wheels. The other petrol option is a turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 187bhp. This variant comes with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive.

As for the diesel options, buyers can pick between one 2.0-litre TDI engine producing either 148bhp or 187bhp. The former will likely be one of the more popular engines in the Tarraco range, as it comes with the flexibility of both a manual or automatic gearbox, and front-or four-wheel-drive. The 187bhp engine is paired to the DSG gearbox, with the sole option of all-wheel-drive.

The most efficient engine in the range is the 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel, which is able to return up to 47.9mpg. Those wanting the quickest model can choose the 187bhp version of either the petrol or diesel models, which are both able to accelerate to 60mph in 7.8 seconds.

What trim levels are offered?

The Tarraco is available in four trim levels, with equipment highlights as follows:

SE – from £28,335

Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED front and rear lights and an eight-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration. It also comes with a digital cockpit, automatic lights and wipers and three-zone climate control.

SE Technology – from £29,345

On top of the SE, this comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows and satellite navigation.

Xcellence – from £30,425

Building on the SE Technology, Xcellence adds 19-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara sports seats, self-parking, adaptive cruise control and keyless start and go.

Xcellence Lux – from £32,150

Sitting at the top of the range, this version (on top of the Xcellence) brings 20-inch alloy wheels, leather sports seats, an electric driver’s seat, a panoramic camera and heated seats.

What about personalisation?

Seat is a company that deliberately offers its customers as few optional extras as possible – the aim being for buyers to choose the trim level that works best for them.

That said, buyers have the option of eight colours, with Dark Camouflage (green) being our favourite. All colours are free, too, which is unlike most manufacturers.

As for other extras, it’s really quite limited. The few options you can have on the Tarraco are a space saver spare wheel (£110), a full-length panoramic sunroof (£960) and a towbar, which costs £685 with full installation.