Big, built upon quality genes, and relatively cheap. Is the SEAT Tarraco FR a success formula for the Spanish brand?

Big holdings like the VW Group bring good and bad things. One could say too much uniformity is forced upon some brands in these 'groups.' Making those brands lose part of their identity. Others might argue that projects like Bugatti might have never taken place without the vastness of the VW Group. The fact is that the shared platforms in these companies lead to advantages for the ones at the 'bottom' of the hierarchy. SEAT finds itself in one of those positions every now and then. Sure, they're not the first in line for innovations, but they do get the low-hanging fruit. That flip side of the coin turns pretty well for the SEAT Tarraco 2.0 TSI 4Drive FR and I'll run you through why down below.

What is it?

Call it an SUV, or a big crossover, or camouflaged MPV, the SEAT Tarraco is no small car. Measuring in at 4735mm in length, 1839mm in with, and towering 1658mm high, it even has an optional third seating row. That third row can be folded completely down to make the boot space a massive 700 liters (760 without that option). How can SEAT cook up such a car next to the Alhambra? Because it has a brother from another mother: the longer version Tiguan that is. That's the first advantage I'm pointing out.

Being an 'FR' version means this Tarraco comes with sporty looks and sporty body control (DCC). It's a similar setup to the new Leon FR we reviewed earlier this year. The same styling for the seat upholstery, steering wheel, and similar exterior styling has been equipped. This also means full-LED front and back, with the latter having a full horizontal bar as standard <3 Last but certainly not least is the set of 20-inch rims that are optional on the FR. Wearing a matte finish, these look quite imposing with their 255 width.

Size is what matters

If size is high up on your list, the SEAT Tarraco FR should fit right in your alley. In terms of size, the big SEAT has a lot to offer objectively and subjectively. That last mentioned has everything to do with the panoramic roof, a must-take option that makes the interior feel spacious. Look at it objectively and the dimensions speak for themselves. Those proportions don't make it too big for city use. I found it relatively easy to parallel park, despite it not having a 360-degree camera (again a must-take option). The turning circle was acceptable too, but there were some butt-clenching moments when I wasn't too sure whether or not I was steering clear of the curb. Onlookers seemed properly intimidated by the size too, which is an important feature for most city inhabitants.

Don't get the petrol version

Another benefit the Tarraco FR enjoys from being in the VW Group is that it can offer many drivetrains. Diesel, petrol, and PHEV are on the menu. All in different power trims, coming in AWD or FWD flavor. The PHEV will only be offered in one, AWD iteration. DSG or no DSG options depend on the market you’re shopping in. SEAT Belgium’s press car is equipped with the 190 horsepower 2.0 TSI that is hooked to 4Drive, SEAT's name for AWD, and has DSG. It is capable of making the Tarraco hit the 100 kph-mark in 8 seconds flat. It is offering enough power at low revs and plenty of torque throughout the entire range. But I won't ever choose the petrol version if I were to buy one. Weighing just a bit more than 1600 kilograms, a big frontal surface, and having AWD makes it a thirsty car. My consumption didn't drop below 9l/100km overall, and there was plenty of highway miles.

Contrary to revving not be rewarding, riding on the 320 Nm of torque is enjoyable in this car. The entire driving experience is quite rewarding in fact. Feedback is a little bit vague but sharp enough during spirited driving to keep you confident. But, for a car its size, it has very little body roll. Responses from the chassis are predictable and it is capable of cornering faster than you'd guess at first. Understeer happens only when you're acting like a complete idiot. Believe me, I tried.

Interior genes

Inside the biggest FR you're again seeing the benefits from SEAT having a big family. Items like the infotainment, upholstery, and gear selector are all family heritage. You're not getting the highest form of quality in the family bloodline, but there's no budget stuff served anywhere.

Those FR branded seats are a gem to look at and in terms of seating, they offer more than decent support. Sadly, they can't be adjusted in too many ways. You'll have to move up in the family for that it seems.

Concluding

Another run in an FR model from SEAT means another positive impression. SEAT might not be the premium kid in the family, it does get more than decent building bricks and performs surprisingly well with them. For the SEAT Tarraco FR that means a lot of 'bang for buck' as this trim would set you back around 50 thousand euros in Belgium, depending on the options.

An enjoyable drive, good looks, an optional third seating row make for a recipe that is bound to sell plenty. The only thing I'd change is the engine: wait for the PHEV, or get a diesel.

Bang For Your Buck: SEAT Tarraco FR