Seat Arona - (almost) perfect crossover
The fashion for SUVs and crossovers is tiring. Each manufacturer boasts of new products in these segments, there is a constant arms race, although “weapons” should be replaced by the word “personalization”. It is the individual character of such vehicles, their maximum versatility and unique, attractive appearance that are the most important issues in the design of such vehicles. The market for high-clearance vehicles worldwide is growing at a dizzying pace. Having the opportunity to test many such designs throughout the year, it is easy to divide them into more and less successful ones. But the question is, which crossover and SUV is better? And why? In fact, each driver could name his own set of qualities that his dream car from these two segments should have. When we recently traveled to Barcelona for the presentation of the new Seat Aron, we didn't expect anything special - just another crossover. None of us had the feeling that "Ibiza on Springs" would give us such a big surprise. And it's true that we can't give the "perfect crossover" label, but in our opinion, there wasn't much to do with this title.
Seat DNA at a glance
Since the introduction of the current generation of Leon models, the Seat brand has been perceived as a manufacturer of cars with a sporty character. A dynamic, but not too complicated line catches the eye, and sporty accents that appear here and there are not controversial, but even muffled. After the successful Leon, a new Ibiza very much like him, it's time for Aaron.
The Seat crossover had to follow the market trends: it offers the possibility of a two-tone body color, with a choice of roof colors in three different versions. There are as many as seven upholstery designs, including a combination with Alcantara, as well as six 16-inch on 18-inch alloy wheels - although this model has more wheels installed, the more attention it draws to its appearance.
The silhouette bears a strong resemblance to the smaller Ibiza, but thanks to the 19 cm increase in ground clearance and distinctive features such as the chrome X badge on the C-pillar, the two models are unmistakable. Arona's silhouette is full of energy. It looks great in bright colors like red and orange, which emphasizes that this is a car for active people looking for positive experiences. The triangular headlights, which have been Seat's hallmark for several years, underline the dynamic character. The front bumper itself, compared to other SEAT models, is made in accordance with the stylistic conventions of the brand, and the lower edges of the bumpers and doors are protected by black plastic lining. The window line runs regularly from the A-pillar and rises to the height of the tailgate handle, giving it a more dynamic look without restricting visibility when manoeuvring. The roofline, although slightly sloping from the B-pillar, is very flat, which has a positive effect on the amount of headroom for rear passengers. The tailgate has a spoiler integrated into the roof, and the rear bumper in the FR sport version we tested has a silver aluminum look and twin trapezoidal tailpipes that are also imitations. Despite the fact that there is some "pretense" here, it all adds up to a surprisingly beautiful, harmonious whole. Arona it has its own charm - it looks racial and at the same time brings a smile to the face. It doesn't look like a toy car either. This is a really big crossover.
Tough but carefully done
Arona adopted most of the stylistic decisions in the interior from Ibiza, although not everything is exactly the same. Finishing materials are tough, but neatly folded. AT FR version some details of the dashboard and door panels are stitched with red thread, but this is definitely not leather.
The eight-inch display, already familiar from Ibiza, is placed in an optimal location, from where it is easy to control its functions. However, the number of functions and the logic of the menu take some getting used to.
What was missing? For example, the virtual cockpit type digital clock, which is increasingly used even in cars in this segment. The digital display between the clocks, even for an additional fee, cannot be in color. Unfortunately, even in the highest version, with Alcantara upholstery, the driver's seat does not have adjustable lumbar support.
The upside, however, is the height adjustment of the passenger seat, the wireless induction charger, the choice of black headlining or the car's signature BEATS® branded audio system. Inside, there is surprisingly plenty of room for the driver, front passenger, rear seats and a 400-litre boot. For the Seat Aron, going on a week-long vacation with luggage is a real challenge. As in the case of VAG vehicles, the list of additional equipment for this model is also very long, which allows us to freely choose the options that we need for everyday use of the car. The car offers a satisfactory interior quality, a large amount of space in front and behind, a roomy trunk and a fairly extensive equipment. And such a set of advantages surprised us a lot.
When driving - the more the better
When we got behind the wheel of the FR version with 1.5 HP 150 TSI engine and manual transmission, we expected a very positive driving experience. Our enthusiasm cooled when we learned that neither the FR version nor the 1.5 engine would be available in Poland during the opening of this model. So we decided to drive a short distance with this equipment, and then change it to one that you can buy.
The FR version is additionally equipped with the Performance Package - 18-inch wheels and the SEAT Drive Profile system, which changes the way the car is used. And if someone is planning to buy Aron some time later and can spend about PLN 100 on this car, such a “setup” will surely satisfy him. The little crossover is literally ready to drive, cornering very boldly and accelerating very efficiently. Running at high speed doesn't involve annoying noises coming from under the hood, and despite being front-wheel drive only, the Arona is predictable and turns a dynamic look into a truly dynamic ride. If we were to buy the Arona, it would be in the FR version and with a 000 TSI engine.
But let's get back to the ground, to what is available "for now". The next choice was a 1.0 TSI engine with 115 horsepower paired with a manual transmission. And although it is quite enough for economical city driving, already at speeds above 120 km / h there is a noticeable lack of one cylinder, especially after switching from a very good 1.5 unit. However, we recommend paying extra for the SEAT Drive Profile package, which allows for a more positive car experience. Engine 1.0 in the 115 hp version. will also be the only one available with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. A 1600 cc diesel will also be added to the offer after some time, but due to the high price and relatively poor fuel economy, especially in the case of city driving, it probably will not gain much popularity in Poland. To sum it up: the 1.0 engine has 115 hp. enough, but we recommend that all lovers of faster driving be patient and wait for the FR 1.5 TSI version.
We're not the cheapest, but we're not the most expensive either.
The Seat Aron price list opens with the Reference version with a 1.0 TSI engine with 95 hp. and a five-speed manual transmission. To become the owner of this car, you need to spend a minimum of PLN 63. At this price we get, among other things, Front Assist, Hill Hold Control, 500 airbags, power windows and mirrors, manual air conditioning.
And what are the prices of competing models? The base version of the Hyundai Kona costs PLN 73, the Opel Mokka X starts at PLN 990 and the Fiat 73X should cost a minimum of PLN 050. Arona in the basic version is in the middle of the stake. Currently the highest version of the Xcellence with a 500 TSI 57 hp engine. and DSG automatic transmission starts from PLN 900, and after a complete upgrade it can cost more than PLN 1.0. However, then it is equipped with full keyless entry to the car, navigation with a map of Europe with free updates, a BEATS® audio system or 115-inch alloy wheels and two-tone bodywork.
We're looking forward to the price list for the FR version, which, like the other models, will probably cost the same as the Excellence version. We are also waiting for offers for a version with a 1.5 TSI engine. And it is a pity that it will not be with an automatic transmission.
Spanish temperament lingered higher
Arona will surely find many fans - she looks fresh, dynamic and energetic. It's done in such a way that one can't blame too much, especially when we remember our origins from the city of Seat of Ibiza. Even with the TSI liter engine, the Seat crossover offers decent performance, and the upcoming 1.5-liter engine will offer capabilities that far outstrip the competition. An all-wheel-drive version of this car is not to be dreamed of, but in fact, all-wheel drive would probably make up only a small percentage of all orders. Most importantly, the Arona rides as well as it looks, offers plenty of space and grabs the attention of passers-by. As for the commercial success of the crossover, this Seat model seems to be destined for it. The only question is, will Polish buyers, thinking of a "crossover", want to think of a "Seat Arona"?
