SEAT Toledo buyer’s guide
Family hatch flies under the radar; here’s how to bag a bargain
YOU could be forgiven for not even realising that the fourth-generation SEAT Toledo ever existed – not because it was a bad car, but because it was one of those invisible models that came and went without anybody really noticing.
Indeed, the three previous generations of Toledo were hardly big sellers, so SEAT’s decision to introduce a fourth take on the formula didn’t seem like the most logical move. Sure enough, the Mk4 sold in relatively small numbers, even though it was reasonably priced, inoffensively styled and offered a healthy dose of practicality.
When you throw in the car’s VW Group running gear and build quality, it’s clear that there is still plenty to like about this midsized family hatch, despite its low profile.
History
THE Toledo Mk4 arrived back in October 2012, with 74bhp 1.2, 84bhp and 104bhp 1.2 TSI, or 104bhp and 120bhp 1.4 TSI petrol powerplants. There was also a 104bhp 1.6 TDI diesel; 18 months later, an 89bhp 1.4 TDI was added. The 1.4 TSI came only in DSG auto form.
In October 2013 the S gained rear electric windows and parking sensors, while the SE got navigation, DAB radio and privacy glass. In June 2014 the Toledo i-Tech was slotted in at the top of the range; this was replaced by Style in June 2015, then in September 2015 the Toledo Connect arrived with SEAT’s Full Link smartphone-friendly infotainment.
A 1.0 TSI arrived in spring 2017, and in August 2018 SEAT launched its Easy programme, which saw all options dropped. Buyers simply picked the engine, trim level and paint colour they wanted.
Which one?
MOST of the engines are excellent, yet the 1.2 petrol and 1.4 TDI aren’t very perky. The DSG automatic works well, but the manual box is also slick. Diesel buyers who live near or regularly enter a Clean Air Zone will want a Euro 6-compliant engine if you buy diesel (see Need to Know, opposite).
The base Toledo is best avoided because it’s pretty spartan by modern standards, although it did come with electrically adjustable and heated mirrors, Bluetooth, air-conditioning and a six-speaker hi-fi. The SE added 16-inch alloys, a five-inch touchscreen display, climate control (with refrigerated glovebox) and cruise control. I-Tech had Alcantara and leather trim; Style featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen.
Alternatives
SKODA’S Rapid is pretty much the same car as the Toledo, but with different badges. It’s more readily available (not that you’ll be spoiled for choice), and the Spaceback version gives the option of a more estatelike silhouette. Other fine small family
hatches include the Ford Focus, Peugeot 308 and Vauxhall Astra, all of which are great value and plentiful, while the same is true of the Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30.
The VW Golf is related to the Toledo, but although there’s a huge number for sale, you will pay more. We’d also suggest that you look at the Mazda 3, because it’s well designed, good to drive and has a great cabin.
Verdict
THE Toledo’s problem was that it didn’t lead the class in any way – it just got on quietly in the background doing its job, while more charismatic rivals received all of the attention. The thing is, while the SEAT is unexciting, so are some of its competitors, which invariably sold in bigger numbers. Relatively few Toledos were shifted, despite a wide range, so there aren’t many used cars to choose from. You might have to travel to buy the right one for your needs.
However, if you want a model that’s user-friendly, cheap to buy and run, made to a high standard and (generally) well equipped, it makes a lot of sense.