SEAT Exeo lets the multitronic ‘box take the strain
The new Multitronic gearbox in Seat’s Exeo helps motoring writer IAN LAMMING put up with the traffic jams.
With an automatic gearbox, and an impressive diesel engine, the Exeo takes some beating.
THE market, that’s buyers like me and you, is a powerful driver. So when we say we want to see a particular model then manufacturers are only too happy to oblige to capture our hearts and wallets.
SEAT likes more than most to produce models for niches to keep customers happy and the latest is with the smart Exeo.
You don’t have to be behind the wheel for very long before you start wishing for an automatic gearbox; it’s just that sort vehicle.
Modern motoring makes anything with a clutch pedal a pain in the thigh as we creep along traffic choked roads.
But the great thing about the Exeo is that losing the manual box doesn’t have to detract from driver appeal as the Multitronic comes complete with sequential change and paddle shift when you fancy taking control.
Otherwise the changes are fast and seamless making the Exeo incredibly easy to drive, particularly through urban areas and over long distances.
Exeo is an excellent medium sized four door saloon. It shares the new SEAT look, attractive lines and generous proportions. It is stylish and contemporary with an angular twist and it looks low and sporty, squat and purposeful. It has nice big alloys too; that never fails to boost appeal.
The superb 143PS diesel edges the Exeo ahead of much of the opposition – unless of course it shares the motor with other models in the Volkswagen Audi family – in which case its bound to be the same but cheaper. I can’t stress enough just how good a motor this is because it boasts amazing performance and economy but also levels of refinement and character you would not expect to get from an oil burner.
Inside, the interior is functional and well specified with the trademark chunky steering wheel giving it a tactile, sporty feel.
Seats are excellent supporting well and keeping all concerned free from travel induced aches and pains, stiffness and sores.
Exeo is a great car to look at, drive and live with. The new automatic option, linked to the peerless diesel motor, makes it an even more attractive proposition and fills a niche among the buying public. Now what else can we ask them for?
Rating: 
THE VITAL STATISTICS
Model: SEAT Exeo TDI automatic
Engine: 2.0 litre, turbo diesel
Drivetrain: Multitronic
Power: 143PS
Top speed: 129mph
0-62mph: 9.3secs
Insurance group: 24
Miles per gallon: 48.7 (combined):
CO2 (g/km): 153
Price: from £23,315