SEAT Arosa Hatchback (1997-2004) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 36 - 64 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Cheap insurance on all apart from the Sport. Fuel consumption can be as good as 50mpg from the 1.0 petrol and 65mpg from the diesel. Depreciation is okay (losing 50% in three years), but not up to VW standards.

Arosa performs very well on the eco front. With an average of 148 g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are comparably low for a mini hatchback. Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.0-litre petrol, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is impressively frugal, averaging 47 mpg.

Mechanically it’ll be sound, but SEAT interior trim doesn’t have the same quality or longevity as parent company VW. Give everything a tug if buying used.