Author:
ROBIN ROBERTS
If only SEAT engineers ran the Spanish economy you might see a turnaround in fortunes as we’ve seen with the car maker, and which is about to pull off another miracle.
Take two engines with reasonably different power outputs but a common emissions level. Impossible? Not for the latest SEAT Exeo Ecomotive.
It’s powered by a 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and in two states of tune: 120 PS and 143 PS. Despite the power difference, both emit just 117g/km of CO2 and return 62.8mpg on the combined cycle.
The addition of start/stop engine technology, an Energy Recovery system, Goodyear low rolling resistance tyres and lowered suspension help make the Ecomotive the cleanest, most fuel efficient Exeo ever.
Not only does that save drivers money at the pumps, it also places the car into VED Band C for the first time – bringing the annual tax bill down from £100 per year to £30 – and reduces its BIK rating to 17%.
It’s not to the detriment of equipment either, because the 143 PS Ecomotive is available with the full range of Exeo trim levels, comprising S, SE, SE Tech, Sport, and Sport Tech.
The 120 PS Exeo Ecomotive S becomes the most cost effective model in the range, with a starting price of £20,040 RRP OTR.
Yet with standard kit including 16-inch ‘Morfeo’ alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, cruise control, voice-activated Bluetooth and a multi-function steering wheel – as well as the exceptional build quality that the Exeo is already well known for – it’s hardly basic.
For those looking for even more luxury and technology, the SE and Sport models offer a cornucopia of kit. SE spec includes rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Sport adds front sports seats, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, tinted rear windows and gloss black dashboard inserts. All Ecomotive cars come with 16-inch alloy wheels, irrespective of trim level.
The popular Tech pack remains, available with SE and Sport trims, which includes satellite navigation, black leather upholstery and a BOSE stereo of startling audio clarity and punch.
Every Ecomotive trim variation is available in both saloon and ST body styles.
The new SEAT Exeo Ecomotive costs from £20,040 with the 120PS engine rising to a starting price of £20.800 for the 143PS and the range is topped at £24,120.
Seat Exeo Ecomotive is likely to be a popular model with small fleet operators and you can see how it stacks up against rivals in our company car tax allowance guide. And you can check out our own experience with the Exeo – it’s one of Our Business Cars.
