Launched in 2019, the Tarraco is a sibling model very different offerings from SEAT
What is it?
SEAT quickly grew its SUV line-up from nothing to having three very different offerings, ranging from affordable supermini-based crossovers all the way to large seven-seaters – and it's the latter we’re interested in here.
Launched in 2019, the SEAT Tarraco is a sibling model to the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, and brought style and a more enjoyable driving experience to the large family car class. Can a new FR version build on that appeal, though?
What’s new?
Though a SEAT with an ‘FR’ badge once signalled a sportier engine and dynamics, these days it just relates to predominantly design and interior changes.
That’s the case with the Tarraco, which gets the same engines as other models, but has a sportier look, including bucket-like seats, big 19-inch alloy wheels and a larger spoiler to make it stand out further.
What’s under the bonnet?
Though there’s no electrified Tarraco on the market yet, this Seat is available with a broad range of engine options, petrol and diesel, manual and automatic, front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive.
What’s under the bonnet?
Though there’s no electrified Tarraco on the market yet, this Seat is available with a broad range of engine options, petrol and diesel, manual and automatic, front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive.
Our test car here is the sportiest diesel engine on offer – a 197bhp 2.0-litre TDI unit that puts out 197bhp and 400Nm of torque, while using a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and 4Drive. The result is a 0-60mph time of 7.6 seconds, while it could do 130mph when maxed out.
Yet it’s not bad on fuel either for a big diesel SUV, with SEAT claiming between 40.4mpg and 42.8mpg, while CO2 emissions stand at 172g/km.
What’s it like to drive?
For a large SUV, the Tarraco is very impressive behind the wheel. It handles remarkably well, feeling involving and quite agile considering its size. SEAT has a knack for making everyday cars feel special to drive, and this is no exception.
The trade-off is that the Tarraco’s ride sits on the firmer end of the spectrum, though it’s by no means uncomfortable. Regular versions with the smaller 18-inch alloy wheels may be preferable, though, if this is a priority. This diesel is also a good fit, delivering plenty of performance combined with reasonable running costs, though we reckon the 148bhp diesel unit might be a better fit for those not as bothered about quick pace.
How does it look?
Even in standard form, the Tarraco is a smartly-styled SUV, with highlights being its LED headlights and full-width LED rear light bar on higher-spec models.
But the FR version really takes things up a notch, gaining more aggressive styling thanks to its sportier bodykit, incorporating a large rear spoiler, twin exhaust trim and diamond-cut 19-inch alloy wheels. A top-spec FR Sport brings even larger 20-inch alloy wheels, though these are at the expense of further ride comfort.
What’s it like inside?
The Tarraco FR’s interior also gets a sporty makeover, if not to the same extent as the exterior. Some smart part-leather seats are fitted, while a perforated leather flat-bottomed steering wheel also helps to add to this sporty appeal.
The rest of the cabin is well-finished, with good quality materials used, while there’s plenty of technology on display too – including a digital dial display, 9.2-inch touchscreen and touch panel for the climate control. Though the third row of seats in the Tarraco is best reserved for children, this remains a very roomy family car, with a huge boot when in five-seat mode and loads of rear seat space in the second row.
What’s the spec like?
The FR sits in the middle of the Tarraco trim line-up, above SE Technology versions but below the high-spec Xcellence.
The level of standard equipment is largely excellent, including full LED lighting, adaptive cruise control and an electric boot to name just a few highlights. The only two omissions that we reckon should be included are a reversing camera and heated seats – you’ll need to upgrade to the higher-spec FR Sport if you want these.
Prices for the Tarraco start from £31,980, but the FR comes in at £35,875. With this punchy engine under the bonnet, the prices came in at more than £42,000, so we reckon a more affordable engine might be a better bet.
Verdict
SEAT‘s Tarraco continues to be one of the best seven-seat SUVs on the market, managing to be spacious but offering what plenty of rivals can’t – stylishness and a good driving experience.
FR versions build on those latter two factors further, while a great mix of engines makes it a great choice as a large family car.
