Which is more comfortable and quiet, the SEAT Ateca or Volkswagen Golf Estate?

My 10 year old Peugeot 307 SW, which I have enjoyed, needs replacing. Both the new SEAT Ateca 1.4 petrol DSG (18-inch wheels) and the new Volkswagen Golf Estate 1.5 petrol DSG (16-inch wheels) suit my needs on paper as regards to space and driver assistance packages. I've driven the Ateca and I'm waiting to drive the Golf. Apart from space and specs, a quiet comfortable ride is very high on my needs list. Without the ability to test drive the two vehicles "back to back" on the same roads I expect to find it hard to compare between them. Logic suggests that on wheel/tyre size alone the Golf should be the winner for comfort and quietness although there are clearly other factors that effect ride comfort. I would very much value your opinion as to which vehicle is likely to be the most cosseting.

Asked on 23 June 2017 by Ray

Answered by Honest John

SUVs have bigger wheels than cars, usually by an inch or two, but what's important is the amount of tyre between the rims and the road. Atecas can come on 16-inch ‘Design’ alloy wheels with 215/60 R16 tyres; 17-inch ‘Dynamic’ alloy wheels with 215/55 R17 tyres or 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels with 215/50 R18 tyres. But the big thing here is that the Golf as VAG's latest 1.5 ECO engine and though the 1.4 TSI 150 is good, it isn't the latest engine. The Golf will probably be on 16-inch wheels with 205/55 R16s.

Tags: ride comfort buying a new car wheels and tyres buying and selling road noise consumer advice spacious quiet cabin

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Related models

Peugeot 307 SW (2002 - 2008)

Makes sense of the 307. Up to seven forward-facing seats. Good to drive. Decent diesels.

Volkswagen Golf Estate (2013 - 2020)

Good looking, well thought-out design. Quality interior. Refined at speed.

SEAT Ateca (2016 on)

Probably the best handling car in its class. Lots of room for those in the back along with a large boot. Good value for money. Range of economical and swift engines.