What's this then?
What you are looking at is the all-new SEAT Tarraco, the first large SUV from the Spanish car maker. The Tarraco joins the Arona and Ateca to become SEAT's flagship model.
It utilises the Volkswagen Group's 'MQB-A' platform, which underpins many other models such as the Audi Q2, SEAT Arona and Ateca, Skoda Karoq and Kodiaq, along with the Volkswagen T-Roc and Tiguan.
So, what's new about it?
Most noticeably, the grille and rear end. The grille is a new design and more upright and prominent than those found on other SEAT models. The familiar triangular signature headlights are retained, but they are now set further into the body to give a more focused appearance. This styling shows a glimpse of the future design language of new SEATs.
The rear features a new-to-SEAT light bar design that links both lights across the boot lid. All lights inside and out on the Tarraco use LED technology, standard across all trim levels.
Is it a seven-seater?
It is indeed. Buyers can opt for five or seven seats. In the five-seat model there is a 760-litre boot that can expand to 2,000 litres with the rear seats tumbled. If you go for the seven-seat version, the boot shrinks to 700 litres when the rearmost seats are folded. The middle row seats recline and slide forwards to make room for those sitting in the two rear seats.
Any cool new features in the cabin?
Do you consider gesture control cool? Yup, the Tarraco is the first SEAT model to get gesture control and it is also available with the optional Navigation Plus infotainment system.
There's also a swish 10.25-inch digital cockpit and an eight-inch 'floating' touchscreen where you can access information, entertainment and connectivity options.
Ah, but is it safe?
Depends on your driving. But there is plenty of safety technology to help keep you and other road users safe. As standard, all Tarraco models come fitted with Lane Assist and Front Assist including bicycle and pedestrian detection and Emergency Call, Pre-crash Assist and Rollover Detection. Systems such as ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), Blind Spot Detection and Light Assist will be available as options.
What's under the bonnet?
You can choose between two diesels, both 2.0-litre TDI units, with either 150hp or 190hp. The lesser powered engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual and front-wheel-drive transmission or a seven-speed DSG with 4Drive four-wheel drive, while the 190hp unit is paired with a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4Drive by default.
There are two petrol variants. The entry level is a four-cylinder 1.5-litre TSI engine with 150hp, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox powering the front wheels. If you need something more potent there is a 190hp 2.0-litre unit mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4Drive all-wheel drive.
What, no hybrid?
SEAT is planning on introducing a plug-in hybrid Tarraco down the line.
Any word on dynamics?
Buyers can opt for Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), allowing the driver to adjust the suspension for a sportier or comfortable ride, but the system can also adapt automatically, modifying the damping depending on the road surface and driving style.
Anything else I should know?
The Tarraco was designed and developed at the SEAT factory in Martorell, Barcelona, but will be produced in Wolfsburg, Germany.
Pre-sales of the SEAT Tarraco will start towards the end of the year and will enter the market in February 2019.
Melanie May - 19 Sep 2018
