Seat - Cordoba |
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Few British buyers see the point of the Ibiza-based Cordoba compact saloons and estates. These tough, practical, reliable but rather bland cars are a cheap choice as a result.
| Volkswagen heritage and technology guarantees durability | |
| Roomy, practical and well constructed | |
| Competitive running costs | |
| Dull, lumpen, uninspired, boring styling | |
| Most British buyers don't like small saloons | |
| Minimal image, so difficult to resell |
Seat have produced some fine cars recently. Ibiza, Leon and Toledo are all good to look at and enjoyable to drive. But in Britain, Cordoba is the also-ran, even though it makes sense as reliable budget family wheels. It has lots of Golf DNA in its genes and it's compellingly good value.
Cordoba imparts a strong feeling that it's a no-frills offering, built to a price. Model choice is limited; petrol versions lack ABS; and air conditioning is standard only on the oddly badged .cool cars.
It's more spacious than its size suggests. The saloon's boot is big, while the rare Vario estate is a capable load-lugger. Comfort and refinement are more than adequate.
Cordoba won't appeal to the keen driver - the long-lasting, workmanlike engines aren't powerful enough - but it's well mannered, stable, easy to drive and feels safe. Its little sister Ibiza gained three stars for NCAP crash tests.
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