IF YOU’VE BEEN considering buying a new mid-sized SUV, then the market just got more interesting with the arrival of the SEAT Ateca.

It is the Spanish car maker’s first proper SUV and even though it shares much of its underpinnings with its sister company’s Volkswagen Tiguan, the Ateca is a more affordable proposition.

There will be a choice of a 1.0- and 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, or on the diesel side there is a 1.6- and more powerful 2.0-litre TDI. There will be both automatic and manual transmissions available as well as front- and all-wheel drive models.

SEAT Ireland SEAT Ireland

SEAT has three difference specification grades available in the new Ateca; an entry-level S, mid-level SE and range-topping ‘Xcellence’. As standard, all models will feature alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, Hill Hold Control, Front Assist (which includes autonomous braking at low speeds), Bluetooth, and a leather multifunction steering wheel.

Niall Phillips, Brand Director at SEAT Ireland, commented:

We are thrilled with the reaction to the Ateca here in Ireland and really believe it will be a game changer for SEAT. The high level of growth in the SUV segment is there for everyone to see and there’s little doubt the Ateca will make a significant impact in this segment. We have worked very hard to get our pricing right for the Irish market and that coupled with appealing finance rates, high-quality design, innovative technology and excellent performance make the Ateca an extremely attractive proposition.

Pricing for the new SEAT Ateca starts at €24,750, and SEAT Ireland has various PCP finance packages available, with the Ateca S starting at €279 per month.

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