It's been a while since I drove the SEAT Toledo. Indeed, I ran a long-term one for a few months a while back so I knew it well enough to not feel the need to drive another. But this week I ended up at the wheel of the latest version equipped with the iTech pack for a few days and it was a good reminder that we motoring journalists really should revisit cars later in their lives rather than just writing about them when they're brand new.
The Toledo has a few clear-cut advantages and disadvantages. First up, despite appearances, it's based on the Volkswagen Polo's chassis, so it's narrow and nowhere near as refined as the Golf or SEAT Leon. The 105hp diesel engine in our test car is uncouth and idles roughly, though it is impressively economical and has plenty of performance, if you can put up with the noise to rev it. However, there's a lot to appreciate about this car. Have you looked into one? The rear seats, while not very wide, have massive legroom and behind those seats is a simply massive 550-litre boot. And it can transport four people and their luggage in real comfort too thanks to soft, compliant suspension.
The iTech pack costs €151, which is a bargain given that it brings with it touchscreen satnav, dark grey 16-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara upholstery and some extra metallic trim accents.
None of that changes the inherent character of the car, but it gives the owner a sense of having got a lot for their money. The Toledo may be the most un-SEAT-like car in the SEAT line-up right now, but this will make a great second hand buy in years to come.
Key tech specs:
- Pricing: €17,435 to €21,725
- Engine options: 1.2 TSI petrol (86- or 105hp), 1.6 TDI (90hp with DSG auto, 105hp with manual gearbox)
- Emissions from: 114g/km
Further reading:
First drive of the SEAT Toledo
Irish road test of the SEAT Toledo