So here is the fourth and final part of my Ateca experience - the 1.6 TDI SE model. This should be relatively short and sweet as you should have a fairly idea of what I think of the SE models. If you've read this article first then it may be a good idea to start off with part one ;).
***UPDATE*** The video that accompanies this article is live and can be seen here.
What's the 1.6 diesel like?
Well on paper it looks to be sluggish - 62mph comes in a rather yawn-inducing 11.5 seconds and the top speed is exactly the same as the 1.0 litre TSI unit - 114mph. However, that's on paper, in the real world I found the 1.6 TDI was able to offer a good level of performance and pulling power. I found it was as smooth and refined as the 2.0 TFI and it sounded a little louder to me but it was still refined enough for me.
As with the other manual models the 1.6 TDI is fitted to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which as mentioned previously in pleasurable to use. it may be the slowest engine on paper but as a result it's also the most economical - 65.7mpg is offered from the 1.6 unit. Unfortunately when it came to driving the car the traffic had built up so it became difficult to get a decent mpg.
In fact the trip computer was sitting just under 40mpg towards the start of the journey which was not what I expecting but thankfully it did creep up as the trip when on. Despite taking it on a combined run I hit quite a bit of traffic and I didn't have much luck with the traffic lights either. In the end I finished on about 47mpg.
Conclusion
My day with the SEAT Ateca was definitely a positive one. This may be the first SUV for the Spanish brand but its done well the Ateca. It's clear that the firm has put a lot of money and effort in to the new model as its keen for the Ateca to become the 'third pillar' alongside the Leon and the Ibiza.
As much as I loved the 2.0 TDI XCELLENCE, I need to be realistic with the model I'd advise the paying public to buy as not everyone will want to stump up nigh-on £30,000. So with that in mind I would advise buyers to opt for the 1.6 TDI SE model. Yes it looks slow on paper but I hit no problems on the road and this model will also give the highest level of economy.
A good level of kit is on offer too and at a price of £21,015 it's bound to make people think twice before going straight for the keys of the Nissan Qashqai. If I was buying an SUV I'd certainly be interested in the SEAT Ateca, although it'll be interesting to see how sales compare with the new Skoda Kodiaq when that gets released.
My own photo I'll have you know, not one from a press release!