Seat - Cordoba

1999-01  2001 onwards 

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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.

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	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

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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.