SEAT Arona vs. SEAT Ateca: which is better?
SEAT is well-known for high-quality SUVs, and in this comparison guide we take a look at two of the finest, the Arona and the Ateca, to determine which is best
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Comparing the used SEAT Ateca vs. used SEAT Arona and struggling to decide which is best?
Although they both have stylish designs and similar high-quality setups, there are a few key differences, including the size and how much you can fit in them.
Keep reading to find out which model is best suited to you.
Compare SEAT Arona vs. Ateca: style?
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Although they’re very clearly related, there’s a lot that separates the SEAT Arona from the SEAT Ateca.
For starters, the Arona is a smaller crossover designed for urban streets, and it has a shorter ride height that strikes the perfect balance between being manageable and giving the driver good visibility.
It has a fairly high shoulder line, which gives it the illusion of being bigger than it is, helping to give it more presence compared with some other small crossovers that look more like large hatchbacks.
Compared with the Arona, which has a softer and rounder front end, the Ateca has a sportier design that’s influenced by sharper lines and a wider grille.
The Ateca also looks a little more mature and refined than the Arona because of its dimensions and proportions.
There are some key similarities, however, including the distinctive triangular LED daytime running light and headlight signature that makes any SEAT model recognisable.
Is the SEAT Ateca or SEAT Arona better to drive?
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The SEAT Ateca is a larger SUV that’s well suited to longer trips like motorway journeys, where it’s stable and planted.
SEAT knows that many drivers tend not to leave town too frequently, so the Ateca has reasonably soft suspension to cope with potholes and bumps.
The Ateca is a smaller vehicle that’s easier to manoeuvre and park. Because it’s smaller and has a lower centre of gravity, it can also feel a little bit more engaging when nipping around side streets and mini roundabouts.
Both are available with some of the same engines, including punchy 1.0-litre petrols that we like and a quicker 1.5-litre unit.
SEAT no longer sells diesel versions of either, but you should be able to find some when browsing used.
Arona vs. Ateca interior
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The SEAT Arona and Ateca are two popular SUV models that share many parts with other Volkswagen Group products, and while they have their own unique SEAT flairs, they’re built on solid, reliable foundations.
Inside the Arona, the design is fairly simple and basic. The dashboard is sensibly laid out and the materials used are of good quality.
Even entry-level models come with the basics, like a good infotainment system, but high-spec models get bigger screens.
The Ateca has a more premium-feeling interior and is better compared to higher-end Aronas, while top-spec Atecas come with plenty of added luxuries and optional extras.
Space is good in the front of both cars, and while adults shouldn’t need to complain about sitting in the back of the Arona, there’s more rear headroom and legroom in the Ateca, making it a better fit for families.
SEAT Ateca vs. Arona: boot space
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Despite its compact dimensions, the SEAT Arona has a respectable 400-litre boot, which is more than you’d find in many hatchbacks like the SEAT Leon.
If you need to carry more, though, the Ateca’s 510-litre space is ideal. Its boot is about average for this size car, but models equipped with four-wheel drive have to make do with a slightly smaller 485-litre space.
SEAT Arona vs. Ateca: reliability and safety
SEAT is owned by Volkswagen in the same way that Skoda and Audi are, which means the Arona and the Ateca are built using tried-and-testing manufacturing processes and parts, helping to reinforce their reliability.
Although they’re not as popular as some other heavy-hitters, like the Nissan Qashqai, SEAT sells a lot of these models, and customer feedback has been positive on the whole.
The Arona was tested in 2017, and then again in 2022, by Euro NCAP. On both occasions, it was awarded the full five-star rating. The Ateca, which was tested when it came out in 2016, also got five stars.
SEAT Arona vs. Ateca dimensions
SEAT’s smallest SUV, the Arona, is 4,154mm long, which means it’s not even 10cm longer than the Ibiza, with which it shares many parts. It’s 1,942mm wide including door mirrors, and 1,537mm tall.
The Ateca is much taller, at 1,625mm, so you’ll notice the extra height. Its width (2,078mm) also helps to give it a more imposing stance, but because it’s 4,381mm long, you’ll have no trouble sticking it into a parking space.
Used SEAT Ateca vs. used SEAT Arona: which should you buy?
SEAT has a three-strong SUV range that goes from crossover to family SUV to seven-seater SUV (that’s the SEAT Tarraco), and the Arona and Ateca are some of the most popular. However, they offer entirely different propositions.
For example, if you need a family motor with space for passengers and luggage, an Ateca will make the most sense.
However, younger or older drivers who usually spend time alone in the car will be pleased with what the Arona has to offer – for less money.