SEAT Tarraco Review 2024
SEAT Tarraco At A Glance
A seven-seat SUV is usually one borne out of necessity, not desire. But the SEAT Tarraco manages to bring a surprising amount of charm to the family SUV sector. It does face plenty of competition from the related Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, though.
In fact, the SEAT Tarraco is certainly not short of rivals, with the UK embracing SUVs in ever larger numbers. Along with the Volkswagen Group’s own in-house competitors, mentioned above, the SEAT Tarraco is also pitched against seven-seat alternatives such as the practical Peugeot 5008, the excellent Kia Sorento and the Hyundai Santa Fe.
It means that the Spanish option has to do something to stand out. Thankfully, the SEAT Tarraco does bring something different to the party in the form of driver engagement. Yes, the idea of a seven-seat SUV being fun to drive might seem unlikely, but it is true.
Before we get too carried away, the SEAT Tarraco is still a large SUV, so any sporting intent will inevitably be tempered by physics. Not to mention the potential complaints from your six passengers.
But, the SEAT Tarraco’s steering is responsive, with accompanying taut body control. The flipside is a ride that feels firmer than might be expected from a family SUV, with models on 19- and 20-inch wheels notably more fidgety.
Although the SEAT Tarraco’s handling is engaging, the engine options are now more mainstream. SEAT has condensed the choices down to just one 1.5-litre EcoTSI petrol and one 2.0-litre TDI diesel, both of them offering 150PS.
Depending on the trim level, buyers can pick between a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, and all versions are front-wheel drive.
Performance from both engines is similar on paper, but the extra torque of the 2.0 TDI diesel makes it feel quicker on the road. It also delivers better fuel economy, with up to 52mpg on offer.
Choosing a seven-seat SUV means you have prioritised practicality, though, and the SEAT Tarraco does not disappoint here either – even if its third-row seats are not the most accommodating around.
Space in the first two rows of the SEAT Tarraco is generous. A sliding bench in the second row, combined with a tilting backrest, means that adults can certainly get comfortable. However, having all three individual seats slide independently, like in the Peugeot 5008, would boost practicality further.
Space in the third row is tighter, though, and accessing these seats is also quite difficult. The Skoda Kodiaq boasts slightly more room in the back row, leaving the SEAT Tarraco’s rearmost seats best left to children only. The car’s luggage capacity is determined by how many seats you use, but the SEAT Tarraco is competitive.
Relatively affordable pricing, combined with generous levels of standard equipment, make the SEAT Tarraco something of a bargain in the large SUV sector. It undercuts its key Volkswagen Group rivals, while even the lower trim levels come with all the technology drivers will need.
A seven-seat SUV is never likely to be a car bought with your heart, but one chosen out of necessity. The SEAT Tarraco is still a sensible decision, but it manages to bring a little flair and excitement to the daily grind.