Used Seat Exeo Saloon 2009 - 2013 review

What's the used SEAT Exeo like?

The Seat Exeo is based on the previous-generation Audi A4, so it grips well through bends and feels stable on the motorway. That said, the standard suspension allows too much bounce over high-speed dips and crests. Sport models have a stiffer set-up that negates this, but it's combined with 18-inch wheels, so the ride becomes unforgiving. The steering isn't ideal, because it's heavy around town and light at speed.

The Exeo is reasonably well insulated from road noise, but there's some wind noise to be heard on the motorway. The diesel engines aren't as hushed as the class best, and you feel too much vibration through the steering wheel, pedals and gearstick.

Overview

The Seat Exeo is based on the previous-generation Audi A4, so it's not in the first flush of youth. It's a high-quality car for the money, though.

Pros

• Compact executive luxury for family car money. It's also loaded with luxury and safety kit, while the engines are strong

Cons

• The ride and handling could be better, many rivals are more spacious and refinement is poor

Used cars available now

In partnership with

SEAT Exeo

2.0 TDI CR SE Tech Euro 5 4dr

£519

SEAT Exeo

2.0 TDI CR SE Euro 5 4dr

£990

SEAT Exeo

2.0 TDI CR Sport Euro 5 4dr

£2,500

See all available cars

There is plenty of space up front, but the rear seats are decidedly tight on both head- and legroom. The boot doesn't measure up to the biggest in the class, but it's a decent size, well-shaped, and has split-folding rear backrests as standard.

Every Exeo has stability control and electronic braking aids to help you avoid trouble. Front, side and curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag and active anti-whiplash front head restraints are all on hand in case a collision becomes unavoidable. Deadlocks, an immobiliser and an alarm help to deter thieves.

Our recommendations

Which used SEAT Exeo should I buy?

Exeo buyers can choose from four 2.0-litre turbo engines - 118-, 141- and 168bhp diesels, or a 197bhp petrol. Our favourite is the 141bhp diesel because it provides the best balance between performance and affordability. It's also the only engine that can be specified with an automatic gearbox.

Entry-level S trim gets alloys, climate control, four electric windows, cruise control, Bluetooth and an MP3 input socket. SE adds automatic lights and wipers, parking sensors and front-seat lumbar adjustment, while Sport brings sports seats, tinted rear windows and different trim. SE and Sport can be upgraded with a Tech pack, which has sat-nav, leather upholstery and an upgraded stereo, while range-topping SE Lux cars feature everything from leather upholstery to bi-xenon headlights.

We think the best value engine and trim paring is the 2.0 TDI 140 in SE trim, which offers decent power, respectable economy and all the kit you're likely to need.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here