Car Statistics: Seat - Exeo Series 09 (3 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

Very familiar - especially in side profile - but effort has been made to make the Exeo look part of the Seat family, with a new grille and different lights at the front and rear.

Handling (3 stars)

Provided you opt for 'sport' suspension, the Exeo handles adequately and safely for a relatively large, heavy car.

Comfort (2 stars)

Ironically, the 'comfort' suspension package is actually very uncomfortable. That's because it bounces occupants around too much and allows too much body roll. The fully adjustable seats are good, though.

Quality (4 stars)

Seems strong, but some cheaper plastics are found low down in the cabin. Since it's based on the old Audi, the Exeo's likely to be reliable.

Performance (3 stars)

Seat's diesel engines turn in adequate performance but it's hardly spine-tingling stuff. Zero to 62mph takes 9.2 seconds in the 141bhp model. The 2.0-litre TSI petrol is quicker and more entertaining but much more expensive to run.

Roominess (4 stars)

We were impressed by the Exeo's passenger space and cavernous boot.

Costs (4 stars)

The diesels model will be relatively cheap to run, with 50mpg-plus fuel economy and competitive CO2 ratings. Both would be worth a look for private and company car customers.

Value (3 stars)

Generous equipment levels and Audi quality seems good for the money. But the Exeo could have been a much more enticing value proposition if it were closer to £15k.

Stereo (4 stars)

The stereo sound quality is good, and the sat-nav is modern and works well. Both have interfaces that make them easy to use on the go.