SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013) Review

SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013) At A Glance

4/5

+2.0 TDI surprisingly good to drive. Very economical. Exceptionally solid build. Multitronic auto option from 2011. Good value.

-Undistinguished looks both inside and out. Possible problems to come with piezo injectors.

Insurance Groups are between 21–28
On average it achieves 87% of the official MPG figure

Over the model life of the Audi A4 B6 and B7, what started out as an attractive, solidly built, yet sometimes unwieldy and hard riding car turned into quite a good one.

It was almost as if criticisms had been listened to and faults rectified as a result.

I particularly remember, having written off ‘S Line' models as internal organ re-arrangers, the last one I tried rode acceptably well. So I didn't necessarily think it a bad thing that VAG has shipped the production line down to Barcelona and given the car a second lease of life as the SEAT Exeo.

SEAT Exeo 2009 Road Test and Video

SEAT Exeo 2.0 TDI Multitronic 2011 Road Test

SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013) handling and engines

As well as a nose and tail job, and the insertion of the dashboard from the A4 cabrio, the Exeo gets VWG's current generation 2.0 litre 143PS TDI. Out went the expensive low-pressure pump and Pumpe Duse injectors. In have come the cheaper, much better high pressure common rail system with piezo controlled injectors.

The result is not only a quieter engine and a punchier engine from 1,750rpm, but also a much more useful engine at low revs. Those piezo injectors allow it to trickle down to 1,000rpm in 6th gear, yet still pull away on the flat in 6th from as little as 1,100rpm. And that, of course, makes it much more economical. I managed to average 49.9mpg over 620 miles at an average speed of 50mph. And, since VAG's miles are a little bit longer than most manufacturers, that translates so something like 51 - 52mpg in a Ford or a Citroen.

More impressive was the way the car covered those miles. Pleasingly relaxed on the motorway, yet with 70mph corresponding to peak torque of a serious 320Nm, there was always bags of grunt under the right foot should it be needed.

Cruising through the 16miles of roadworks on the M1, it was perfectly happy to drop down to between 40 and 50 in 6th, whereas in a PSA/Ford 2.0 litre diesel you'd normally need 4th.

Cross-country it showed it had a few more feathers in its bow. The engine may overhang the front wheels by a considerable amount, but whoever re-engineered the front suspension is a genius. Somehow the wheels contrive to grip and pull the car into apexes almost like a hard-driven quattro. And that on 225/45 R17 tyres that don't jiggle and jump on every cat's eye. I'm not talking limo-like ride here, of course. But ride that is absorbent and comfortable enough to be more than acceptable.

So it's a really good car. Quick with excellent ride and handling. Comfortable. Very economical. Extremely solidly built. The downside is that it's no looker.

But you can't see that from the driver's seat. So if you want a really good car that won't attract any attention to you, put the SEAT Exeo on your list. And try to take it on a really long test drive before finally deciding.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
2.0 TDI 54–63 mpg 9.2 s 117–136 g/km
2.0 TDI 120 59–63 mpg 10.5 s 117–129 g/km
2.0 TDI 170 50–52 mpg 8.4 s 142–148 g/km
2.0 TDI Ecomotive 63 mpg 9.2 s 117 g/km
2.0 TDI Multitronic 51 mpg 9.3 s 146 g/km
2.0 TSI 41 mpg 7.1 s 159 g/km

Real MPG average for the SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

87%

Real MPG

38–62 mpg

MPGs submitted

99

SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013) interior

Dimensions
Length 4661 mm
Width 1772 mm
Height 1430 mm
Wheelbase 2642 mm

Full specifications

The 460 litre boot is huge. They've indented the sides to take golf clubs. And under the floor with its nice chromed luggage tie downs you'll find a full size spare tyre. Not a 225/45 R17 on an allot, but a 205/55 R16 on a steel with the same rolling circumference as a 17 and no need to crawl along at 50 until you can get the puncture fixed.

The rear seatbacks also fold down 60/40, by the way, but, as with the A4 B7, they don't offer a lot of legroom. And you'll soon lose any friends you persuade to travel in the centre of the rear seat.

SEAT Exeo (2009 – 2013) models and specs

Dimensions
Length 4661 mm
Width 1772 mm
Height 1430 mm
Wheelbase 2642 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1505–1545 kg
Boot Space 460 L
Warranty 3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing 10000 miles
Costs
List Price £20,040–£25,400
Insurance Groups 21–28
Road Tax Bands C–G
Official MPG 40.9–62.8 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 4

On sale until June 2013

Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 4dr £20,800 62.8 mpg 9.2 s
SE 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 4dr £21,760 62.8 mpg 9.2 s
SE Tech 2.0 TDI CR 4dr £22,310 57.6 mpg 9.2 s
SE Tech 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 4dr £22,660 62.8 mpg 9.2 s
SE Tech 2.0 TDI CR Multitronic 4dr Auto £23,940 51.4 mpg 9.3 s
Sport 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) 4dr £23,950 52.3 mpg 8.4 s
Sport 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 4dr £23,220 62.8 mpg 9.2 s
Sport Tech 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) 4dr £24,850 52.3 mpg 8.4 s
Sport Tech 2.0 TDI CR 4dr £23,770 57.6 mpg 9.2 s
Sport Tech 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 4dr £24,120 62.8 mpg 9.2 s
Sport Tech 2.0 TDI CR Multitronic 4dr Auto £25,400 51.4 mpg 9.3 s

On sale until December 2012

Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive (120ps) 4dr £20,040 62.8 mpg 10.5 s
Sport 2.0 TSI 4dr £23,625 40.9 mpg 7.1 s

On sale until June 2012

Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE 2.0 TDI CR (120ps) 4dr £20,430 58.9 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until June 2011

Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR (170ps) 4dr £23,770 49.6 mpg 8.4 s
SE Lux 2.0 TDI CR 4dr £22,830 54.3 mpg 9.2 s

Model History

October 2008

Compact executive saloon launched Paris Motor Show

Boot space of 460 litres, with generous 1,000 mm between wheel arches. Front suspension set-up is an independent multilink, with a trapezoidal link at the rear. Light alloy elements on both shafts also considerably reduce the unsuspended mass.

Double-thickness door windows which significantly reduce noise inside the car and are also a theft deterrent. It is also equipped with a tilt sensor alarm and an innovative ‘solar roof’, which provides enough electrical power to activate the car’s ventilation system even allowing it to continue to work when the engine is turned off. Twin-zone automatic climate control system is equipped with a sophisticated air quality sensor, which not only provides independent climate control on the driver and front passenger sides, but also detects and avoids the entry of noxious gases, maintaining a constant air quality for the vehicle’s occupants.

Satellite navigation system with two SD ports, MP3-type audio player and hard disc, including a map database of the whole of Western Europe. The Exeo shown in Paris had a turbo-charged direct injection 200 PS 2.0-litre TSI. It delivers maximum torque of 280 Nm at only 1,800 rpm. Fuel consumption 36.6 mpg on the (provisional) combined cycle, with CO2 under 185 g/km.

May 2010

'Tech' models launched with £3,270 of satnav, black leather upholstery and BOSE sound system for £875 extra. Tech models join the existing Exeo line-up of S, SE, Sport and SE Lux versions, add thousands of pounds worth of extra standard equipment to the already well-specified models for the paltry sum of just £875.

Included as standard in the new SE Tech and Sport Tech cars are DVD-based colour screen satellite navigation, BOSE premium audio upgrade, luxurious black leather upholstery and an iPod connection in lieu of the standard glove compartment-mounted USB port.

Together, priced as options, these highly desirable extras would previously have cost an Exeo SE or Sport customer £3,270 yet the price of the same Exeo SE Tech or Exeo ST Sport Tech, featuring the enhanced specification, rises by just £875. Or, to put it another way, by opting for a Tech model the Exeo buyer is saving a very handy £2,395 RRP.

July 2010

Multitronic CVT automatic transmission announced for 2.0 TDI CR 143 diesel

This efficient automatic gearbox is mated to the 143 PS (105 kW) 2.0 TDI common rail diesel injection engine. With an average fuel consumption of only 5.8* litres per 100 kilometres (48.7 mpg), this variant combines SEAT's trademark refined dynamics and high efficiency with classic automatic ease of use.

The electronically controlled multitronic works with continuously variable ratios, enabling the engine to operate consistently at optimum efficiency. For dynamic drivers it offers both a Sport programme that results in gear shifts at higher revs, and a Manual mode controlled via steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Alongside comfort and dynamics the new multitronic ‘box delivers impressive economy. The mechanical efficiency and broad ratio spread of this hi-tech gearbox ensure low fuel consumption and emissions.

There have been other important changes to the Exeo range, too, which now make the cars even more roomy and comfortable. Small but significant revisions to the front seat back and rear bench designs result in an appreciably larger rear passenger compartment. Thanks to the redesigned front seats and rear bench, room in the back has now increased by 44 millimetres without any sacrifice in seating comfort or luggage space.

November 2010

120PS version of 2.0TDI CR offered, with 290Nm torque from 1,750-2,500rpm, but in fact plenty from much lower revs and is happy on the flat at 1,000rpm. Real Life Fuel Economy? We got 48mpg. Pricve of 2.0TDI CR 120 SE: £19,675.

August 2011

SEAT’s Exeo saloon and ST estate range is getting a new look, and some important new engineering upgrades. The revised Exeo ‘face’ with new xenon headlights and stunning LED daytime running lights (standard on Sport, optional on SE). The styling enhancements, boosted by smart new alloy wheel designs, further underline the high value Exeo range’s premium look, while upgrades to interior materials – including upgraded leather on the steering wheel and revised upholstery – create a matching premium feel.

Meanwhile, improvements to the high quality SEAT saloon and estate’s 2.0 TDI common rail powerplant now see emissions cut to as little as 129 g/km. Economy is similarly improved, too, with the Exeo saloon now being capable of as much as 57.6 mpg on the EU’s combined cycle.

February 2012

The executive class 2012 SEAT Exeo is now available in the Spanish brand’s UK showrooms nationwide with even more style, economy and refinement available to savvy saloon and estate buyers.

SEAT’s much-admired Exeo saloon and Exeo ST estate range boasts a new look and some important engineering upgrades. The 2012 cars’ revised ‘face’ – with new bi-xenon headlights and stunning LED daytime running lights (standard on Sport models and optional on SE spec’ cars) – ensures it once again cuts a real dash in the executive car park.

The styling enhancements, boosted by smart new alloy wheel designs, further underline the high ue Exeo range’s premium look while upgrades to interior materials – including improved leather on the steering wheel and revised upholstery – create a matching premium feel.

Meanwhile, improvements to the high quality SEAT saloon and estate’s 2.0 TDI common rail powerplant see emissions cut to as little as 129g/km. Economy is similarly improved, too, with the Exeo saloon now being capable of as much as 58.9mpg on the EU’s combined cycle.

The Exeo’s elegant styling upgrades, allied to SEAT’s ongoing commitment to improving quality and fuel economy, as well as reducing emissions, are already generating even more interest in the range. The luxurious saloon and estate car line-up is the Spanish brand’s third best-seller in the UK behind the perennially popular Ibiza supermini and Leon five-door family hatch.

As 2012 unfolds the Exeo family is set for even more upgrades, too, with the likely arrival of an Ecomotive version. SEAT’s cleanest, greenest cars all bear the Ecomotive moniker and are synonymous with environmental efficiency. The Ibiza Ecomotive, for instance, emits just 92 g/km of CO2 while the Leon Ecomotive is hot on its heels with a road tax- and London congestion charge-busting CO2 figure of just 99 g/km.

July 2012

SEAT now offers low tax Ecomotive versions of its Exeo saloon and Sport Tourer, powered by a 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. It comes in two states of tune: 120 PS and 143PS. Both emit just 117g/km of CO2 and return 62.8mpg on the combined cycle, so are Band C £30 annual VED and have a BIK rating of 17%.

The 143 PS Ecomotive is available with the full range of Exeo trim levels: S, SE, SE Tech, Sport, and Sport Tech.

The 120 PS Exeo Ecomotive S is now the most cost effective Exeo with a starting price of £20,040 RRP OTR. Standard kit includes 16-inch ‘Morfeo' alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, cruise control, voice-activated Bluetooth and a multi-function steering wheel - as well as the exceptional build quality that the Exeo is already well known for - it's hardly basic.

SE spec includes rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Sport adds front sports seats, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, tinted rear windows and gloss black dashboard inserts. All Ecomotive cars come on 16-inch alloy wheels, irrespective of trim level.

The popular Tech pack remains, available with SE and Sport trims, which includes satellite navigation, black leather upholstery and a BOSE stereo of startling audio clarity and punch. Every Ecomotive trim variation is available in both saloon and ST body styles.

What to watch out for

09-03-2013:

Production ended in 2013.

11-05-2013:

Since production ended, depreciation has been shocking. Bad news for owners. Brilliant news for taxi drivers.

06-05-2014:

Standard VAG ATE Teves Mk 60 Brake Pressure Sensor fault occured on 2009 Exeo. Advised to refer to ECUtesting.

27-11-2016:

Report of SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI returning from SEAT dealer after EA189 Nox remap. Within 24 hours the engine management light has came on.

27-11-2016:

2nd report same day of problems after emissions remap on SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI 143PS. MPG of this one 5-10% worse.

19-01-2017:

3rd report of EA189 SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI 170 ST messed up by VAG NOx emissions 'fix'. Glow plug light flashed continuously, dangerous 'limp mode'. Two further visits to SEAT dealer, replacement of solenoid, alleged "bill of clean health", and real bill of £200 futile. Car only drinks BP or Shell super. Used for minimum of short trips and treated to longer unecessary ones to keep DPF soot burned off.

19-09-2017:

Report of SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI cutting out at high speed and then refusing to start after having the emissions recall.

07-03-2018:

Report of EA189 problem with 2012 SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI at 80,000 miles. VW emissions fix carried out a year ago. Flashing glow plug followed by engine management light followed by limp mode. Main dealer claimed crankshaft sensor faulty and replaced it for £700 (in spite of owner's insistence that the symptoms do not match the diagnosis). Exact same symptoms the day after the car was returned, so returned to the dealer for 2 weeks of tests. They absolutely refuse to consider that the EGR may be faulty and insist that the fault code does not suggest an EGR problem. Owner got car back yesterday and they said they had reset the ECU (ie probably 'flashed ' it and then carried out the software rewrite again). This morning (2.5 degrees) exactly the same thing: flashing glow plug followed by engine management followed by limp mode. Owner thinks EGR valve is sticking on cold mornings and that the fault code is not showing up on the ECU. Instead a load of other misleading fault codes are appearing.

22-03-2019:

SEAT Exeo 2.0TDI automatics have a transmission oil cooler situated in the radiator. Report of this failing in a 2012 SEAT Exeo ST 2.0TDI auto at 32,000 miles depositing a mixture opf transmission fluid and water on the owner's driveway, but more seriously fluid in the transmission contaminated with coolant. Owner offered a fresh radiator and heat exchanger and a cooling system and transmission flusj for £1,000, but no guarantee of success. SEAT offered to contribute £2,500 to £10,000 replacement of the transmission.