SEAT Arosa (1997 - 2004) 1.0 S 3d (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Thats i dont like to buy the obvious cars (corsa, fiesta etc), i like something a bit different.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They think its good, fun little car. Though with a small boot.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, since i bought this one i have owned the 1.4TDi version, which was fantastic, though i find the 1.0S excellent fun to drive.

What are you likely to buy next?

Currently have a Citroen C5, though thinking of changing now, no idea to what, maybe another small VW group car - you cant beat a small basic car for fun and reliability.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,700

When did you buy the car?

December 2004

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, it was very cheap, still had over a years warranty as it was only 20 months old.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Really liked the looks, spec and quality, perfect for my first car.

What was the dealer like?

Very helpful and friendly, though has now stopped trading.

What's it like to drive?

Brilliant, its only a 1.0 with 50bhp so its not going to be a ball of fire, but its great and not as slow as you might think. Cruises perfectly at high motorway speeds and its reasonably refined, but the engine revs high at 80+. Its great on country roads, keep the speed up, dont slow and just hang on for the corners! It grips very well and its body control is good, as is steering feel, its a really good fun if you know how to get the best from it. Better to drive than similar spec Lupos, feels more sporty!

What's it like to park?

Excellent, one of the smallest cars around, no rear overhang, a tiny bonnet and excellent visablity = very easy to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes, there has been a few issues, though mainly down to useless Seat dealers who couldnt find the faults. Owned now for 5 years and its still in the family, its been great, still looks, feels and drives like new, everything still works.

What's most practical about your car?

Access plus front seats, they jump forwards and upwards to let people in the back. One of the easiest 3dr cars to get into - only on the S and above specs. Rear seats tilt slightly for larger items or fold almost flat for much bigger items. You would be amased at what you can actually get in! Its actually very very spacious in the front, im 6ft2 and have no problems sitting in it all day.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Electric windows and remote locking, quite a high spec for a 1.0 car and has very nice 14" alloys wheels.