• Classy and ergonomic cabin
• Plush materials up top and simple controls
• Digital instruments standard on all models

How is the quality and layout?

We found the SEAT’s relatively low slung and modern dashboard design gave us a great view forward, as well as helping make the Tarraco seem airier inside than its Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Skoda Kodiaq cousins.

The screen perhaps looks a little small, thanks to its chunky bezzle. But we love that the Tarraco still has separate air-conditioning controls, making it much easier to use these while driving than in later VW Group models where everything is integrated into the central touchscreen.

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Soft-touch plastics on top of the dashboard feel higher quality than the equivalent Kodiaq, but lower down the interior there are some scratchier feeling materials. The digital instrument cluster is fitted as standard on all Tarraco models, something that is not the case with its VW Group cousins.

Infotainment and tech

The entry-level SE models get an 8.25-inch version of the central infotainment touchscreen, but SE Technology and above are specified with the larger 9.25-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard on all models, taking the strain out of streaming, connecting and navigating.

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The SEAT system is packed with features, but they’re sometimes quite difficult to access, requiring a period of familiarisation. Overall, we think it’s still better to use than the very latest Volkswagen Group systems with quicker responses in use.

Comfort

• Supportive, adjustable seats in first two rows
• Engine and road noise well controlled
• Third row passengers aren’t so generously treated

The Tarraco is a hushed car with ample sound insulation – the engines don’t get too rowdy and wind noise is kept to a minimum (aside from some noise coming from the panoramic sunroof at speed). Add the supportive seats – which offer a good amount of adjustment in the first and second rows, and you’ve got a comfortable family car that will generate few complaints on long journeys.

Anyone stuck in the third row won’t feel quite so lucky – and if you are travelling seven-up plan in some extra stops so taller occupants relegated to the final pews can restore some leg circulation.