Vehicle Description

The SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux (68 Plate) is a compact crossover that blends sporty performance with practicality, offering a stylish alternative in the highly competitive small SUV market. Combining sleek design, a punchy turbocharged engine, and a well-equipped interior, the Arona presents itself as an excellent option for those looking for a small family car with a little more flair and substance. Let’s take a closer look at what this model brings to the table.

Performance and Efficiency
Under the bonnet of the SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux, you’ll find a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 115 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission (though a 7-speed DSG automatic is available in other variants). The engine is energetic and responsive, making the Arona a lot of fun to drive, particularly in urban environments where its compact size makes it nimble and easy to maneuver.

The 0-60 mph time of around 10.5 seconds is respectable for this segment, and the engine offers enough power to comfortably tackle both city streets and faster motorways without feeling underpowered. The TSI engine is also impressively efficient, offering a combined fuel economy of around 50-55 mpg, making it an economical choice for those who do a lot of city driving or longer commutes. With low CO2 emissions (around 120g/km), the Arona keeps running costs reasonable, including road tax.

While the performance is generally smooth, the engine does get a bit noisy under hard acceleration, but it’s still a comfortable drive for most everyday situations.

Interior and Comfort
Inside, the SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux impresses with a well-thought-out cabin that combines comfort, practicality, and a touch of elegance. The Xcellence Lux trim is the top-of-the-line option, so you can expect a higher level of equipment, including premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a stylish design that makes it feel more refined compared to many competitors in this segment.

The front seats are comfortable, offering a good balance between support and comfort for both short and long trips. Adjustability is solid, allowing most drivers to find their preferred position. The rear seats, while spacious enough for a couple of adults, are best suited for short to medium journeys as legroom and headroom can be a bit tight for taller passengers.

In terms of practicality, the boot offers a 400-litre capacity, which is a good size for a small crossover and easily accommodates luggage for a weekend trip or a week’s worth of groceries. When the rear seats are folded down, the boot expands significantly, providing ample space for larger loads.

Technology and Features
The SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux is packed with technology, with a Media System Plus infotainment system that features a 8-inch touchscreen. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to easily connect your smartphone for hands-free operation and easy access to music, maps, and apps. The system is intuitive, quick to respond, and features clear graphics, making it easy to navigate on the move.

In addition to smartphone integration, the Xcellence Lux trim includes satellite navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera for added convenience while parking. The car also features keyless entry, a push-button start, and dual-zone climate control, which adds a layer of comfort and luxury to the driving experience.

While the infotainment system is generally user-friendly, it can feel a bit dated compared to some of its more modern rivals, but it’s still a solid offering for a car of this class.

Safety Features
The SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux comes with a comprehensive set of safety features to keep you and your passengers safe. Some of the key safety features include:

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): This feature detects an impending collision and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the impact.
Lane Keep Assist: Helps keep the car in its lane by providing steering assistance if the car starts to drift without signaling.
Front and Rear Parking Sensors: These sensors assist with parking, helping you avoid obstacles and ensuring a hassle-free parking experience.
Driver Attention Alert: This system monitors the driver’s behavior and provides a warning if it detects signs of drowsiness.
Cruise Control with Speed Limiter: This allows for relaxed driving on highways, while the speed limiter ensures you stay within the speed limit.
Additionally, the car is equipped with multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain) and ISOFIX child seat anchors for family safety.

The Arona has been rated 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests, proving that it is a safe and secure option in the small SUV segment.

Driving Experience
On the road, the SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux offers a comfortable and composed drive. The steering is light but precise, making the car easy to maneuver through tight city streets and parking spaces. On motorways, it feels stable and confident, with minimal road noise and good insulation from the outside world, allowing for a more relaxed driving experience.

The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and agility. It’s firm enough to provide stability through corners but soft enough to absorb bumps and road imperfections. The car feels nimble, and it’s easy to push through corners without feeling like there’s too much body roll. Although the Arona is not the most dynamic car in the small SUV segment, it offers a great mix of comfort, practicality, and handling that most drivers will find satisfying.

The automatic transmission (if chosen) is smooth and responsive, though the manual version is equally capable and more engaging for drivers who enjoy being more involved in the driving process.

Verdict
The SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux 5dr Hatchback (68 Plate) is a well-rounded and highly capable small SUV. With a combination of good looks, a practical interior, and a punchy, efficient engine, the Arona offers a great blend of style, performance, and value for money. The cabin is well-equipped, comfortable, and practical for families, and the car’s low running costs make it an economical choice for those who need a versatile daily driver.

The driving experience is composed and enjoyable, offering a great balance between comfort and agility. The 1.0-litre turbocharged engine provides enough power for most driving situations, while the car’s fuel efficiency helps to keep running costs down. The Xcellence Lux trim is well-equipped with a solid array of tech and safety features, making it a safe and convenient option for anyone looking for a small SUV.

If you’re in the market for a compact crossover that offers a comfortable, well-equipped interior, great fuel economy, and a fun-to-drive nature, the SEAT Arona 1.0 TSI 115 Xcellence Lux is certainly worth considering. It ticks all the right boxes for practicality, comfort, and style while remaining an affordable option in its class.