New Exeo ecomotive arrives

SEAT might be a brand synonymous with dynamic, design-driven cars, but that doesn’t mean its buyers aren’t environmentally savvy too. And the numbers prove it, because SEAT’s UK year-to-date sales show that take-up of cars featuring Ecomotive Technology is at an all-time high: 41.3% of all cars sold. That’s a slight increase (1.2%) compared to the proportion of cars with Ecomotive Technology sold across all of 2011 – but with the new Exeo Ecomotive joining the line-up this month, things are only going to get greener for SEAT. The Exeo Ecomotive, available to order now, is powered by a 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and in two states of tune: 120 PS and 143 PS. Despite the power difference, both emit just 117g/km of CO2 and return 62.8mpg on the combined cycle. The addition of start/stop engine technology, an Energy Recovery system, Goodyear low rolling resistance tyres and lowered suspension help make the Ecomotive the cleanest, most fuel efficient Exeo ever. Not only does that save drivers money at the pumps, it also places the car into VED Band C for the first time – bringing the annual tax bill down from £100 per year to £30 – and reduces its BIK rating to 17%. It’s not to the detriment of equipment either, because the 143 PS Ecomotive is available with the full range of Exeo trim levels, comprising S, SE, SE Tech, Sport, and Sport Tech. The 120 PS Exeo Ecomotive S becomes the most cost effective model in the range, with a starting price of £20,040 RRP OTR. Yet with standard kit including 16-inch ‘Morfeo’ alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, cruise control, voice-activated Bluetooth and a multi-function steering wheel – as well as the exceptional build quality that the Exeo is already well known for – it’s hardly basic. For those looking for even more luxury and technology, the SE and Sport models offer a cornucopia of kit. SE spec includes rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Sport adds front sports seats, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, tinted rear windows and gloss black dashboard inserts. All Ecomotive cars come with 16-inch alloy wheels, irrespective of trim level. (Full specifications are available at www.seatpress.co.uk) The popular Tech pack remains, available with SE and Sport trims, which includes satellite navigation, black leather upholstery and a BOSE stereo of startling audio clarity and punch. Every Ecomotive trim variation is available in both saloon and ST body styles. “We’re really excited about the arrival of the Exeo Ecomotive in the UK, said SEAT Product Manager James Buckell. “The day-to-day financial benefits are obvious in terms of improved fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions, leading to cheaper annual VED, but it also means that the Exeo becomes an even stronger proposition for fleet and business users, by lowering its BIK rating significantly. “And the fact that the Ecomotive is available with all the Exeo’s usual, highly specified trim levels makes it even more enticing for buyers,” he added. From motorin