The Tarraco is Seat's first step into a large SUV, and is offered in the UK only in a seven-seat guise.
Named after the Spanish city of Tarragona, the Tarraco sits above the Ateca, and is for those who want size and practicality without compromising on aesthetics. This model's sculptured exterior design and sportiness is unlikely to see it mistaken for other closely allied platforms within the VAG parent company.
There are two petrol and two diesel options, each packing 150hp and 190hp, with a plug-in hybrid expected to follow this year. Transmission options include six-speed manual and seven-speed DSG - the latter gearbox bringing Seat's 4Drive traction to both axles, and the ability to flick between off-road and snow modes, in addition to normal, eco, sport and individual driving modes.
We tried the 190hp diesel engine, which offers effortless pulling power, and comfortably handled the Tarraco's bulk. In the corners, that bulk cleverly disappeared, thanks to a firm and sporty ride that was only occasionally upset by those 19-inch alloy wheels.
Light steering helps you to thread the Tarraco along twisty country lanes, and it is refreshing to find that those large wheels and tyres do not always bring a lot of road noise to the cabin.
Progress is only marred by the seven-speed auto's hesitance, and a reluctance to change down sooner. It is a trait that can be rectified by putting the transmission into Sport mode, but then it keeps the 2.0TDi working too high up the rev range, negating the effects of its 400Nm of torque.
You do sit relatively high in the Tarraco - on it, rather than nestled in it. Though its Baza grey cloth sport seats with brown alcantara inserts did little to lift an interior that needs a little more excitement adding to it.
Adjustment of seat and steering wheel is generous, and our test model's Xcellence specification boasts a host of safety and tech-related features, in addition to a 10.25in digital cockpit display and an 8-inch central display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto capability.
A rear view parking camera and front parking sensors help to negotiate tighter spaces.
There are handy storage spaces up front, and the Tarraco's second row of seats slide and recline, giving generous leg room for rear seat passengers. And with the option of folding 40/20/40, it is possible to through-load longer items and still accommodate two rear seat passengers.
The third row of seats however, is much more confined, and best for occasional use only, and preferably by small children. Though these seats are light and easy to fold, and lay flat enough to avoid obstruction when loading large, heavy items. And if you don't order a spare wheel, the under-boot storage is usefully generous too.
Verdict
Largest of Seat's SUVs provides ample space for five plus two occasional chairs, with reclining and optional load-through rear bench a bonus.
