Introduction

It’s called the Ateca and it is Spanish firm Seat’s contender in the mid-sized SUV marketplace, a burgeoning segment that is chock full of talented vehicles vying for consumer attention. It leverages know-how from Seat’s parent company, the Volkswagen Group, and is therefore based on the German company’s Tiguan underpinnings. As a result, the Ateca is an extremely strong contender which blends impressive driving manners with great looks, a well-equipped, comfortable interior and reasonable pricing.

Did you know? Like all Seat models, the Ateca is named after a Spanish locale – in this instance, a small village west of Zaragoza.

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

It took Seat some time to take the plunge into this lucrative market. But the Ateca was well worth the wait, because it’s one of the most well-rounded, likeable and great value SUVs in the sector. Specify the Ateca correctly and you will end up with a very realistic claimant to the coveted title ‘Best SUV in Class’. Only the Skoda Karoq betters it for value, as well as practicality and dynamic fitness for purpose, although the Skoda doesn't handle with quite the Seat's verve. Ultimately, the Seat is about the most fun SUV at this price point and st...