SEAT Exeo ST 1.8 TSI 120 CV, first test drive (Part II)

We continue with the SEAT Exeo ST that we tested with the 1.8 TSI 120 CV petrol engine, during a brief first drive we saw how the car behaves and above all how its petrol engine performs, which corresponds to the entry-level version in the range. In the first part of the test we covered all of this.

Now in the second part of the test we will focus on the design, equipment and our assessment of the model. As for its interior, we must add that we already tested an Exeo 2.0 TDI 143 CVsome time ago, so the impressions can be extrapolated between both models, with the only difference being the cargo space, as this is an estate model.

Exterior and interior design

Externally our model had no additional extras; it was the Reference trim level, which already comes with alloy wheels. As for the lines, we find regular shapes and a conservative look (its heritage Audi shows), but that design still remains fairly current today.

Meanwhile, in its interior we find correct materials, with good touch and a comfortable driving position. It is a large car externally, but we did not notice this detail too much inside, because the space in the rear seats is somewhat tight, even with the changes made to the new units of the Exeo, which now offer a little more rear seat space.

The boot capacity is 440 litres, a figure surpassed by other models such as the Renault Laguna (508 litres) or the Opel Astra Sports Tourer (500 litres), but at least it has regular shapes that make loading easier.

Equipment and price

Within the standard equipment we find a dual-zone climate control, the CD-MP3 radio with USB input which has good sound, or Bluetooth for the phone, in other words quite complete standard equipment. It also has a 230 V socket in the central console, a very practical detail for plugging in small things such as a laptop (up to 150W).

The starting price for the SEAT Exeo ST 1.8 TSI 120 CV is 20,394 euros

(18,800 euros for the saloon, promotional price). A fairly competitive price in terms of value for money and above all standard equipment.

Overall assessment

The Exeo ST is an interesting car for someone looking for a prestige saloon, with good finish and a notable performance on the road, at a fairly competitive price. Its main drawback is the space both in the rear seats and in the boot, and in its favour is the standard equipment, very complete for an entry-level version.

The 120 CV petrol engine has seemed more than adequate to move the Exeo ST, even when travelling with the family and luggage, since it is a powerful engine, derived from the 160 CV, but electronically limited to 120 CV. In short, an interesting entry-level version of the Exeo range.

Photos | Test team