The 2021 SEAT Tarraco FR on test for Changing Lanes!Caroline drives the new SEAT Tarraco FR!
The SEAT Tarraco got its big Irish market launch back in 2019. Awards quickly followed for SEAT’s flagship SUV. The Tarraco was not just big in size, it also went large on design and quality!
Now it’s time to revisit the SEAT Tarraco, this time in sporty FR trim with a 2.0-litre diesel under the bonnet. The Tarraco is available in 5 or 7 seat models, with 7 seat versions starting from €41,295.
In Ireland buyers can choose from three well equipped trim levels: SE, Xcellence and FR. The FR models start from €47,365, building on the Tarraco’s healthy specification with even more features and a sporty makeover inside and out.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol with 150 hp or a 2.0-litre diesel with 150 hp – or 200 hp and four wheel drive.
What’s new for the SEAT Tarraco FR?
The Tarraco is a good-looking large family SUV, and it gets even better in FR trim. There have been a range of exterior enhancements, including special grille with FR logo, wider, black wheel arch mouldings, black roof rails and window frames, and side mirrors finished in Cosmo Grey. At the back the new Tarraco FR gets a new spoiler, an exclusive rear diffuser and the rear logo in a handwritten style. 20” alloy wheels complete the look!
The Tarraco is available with petrol and diesel engines with a plug-in hybrid to join the range shortlyInside the SEAT Tarraco FR
The SEAT Tarraco feels immediately sporty inside too with some very impressive sports seats. The Tarraco has a lovely cabin and it’s standing the test of time very well. The fit and finish is excellent, allowing the Tarraco FR to command its considerable list price without buyers feeling short changed.
The digital instrument cluster is crisp and modern, while an updated infotainment system with 9.2” screen in the centre of the dash looks glossy and offers good functionality and connectivity.
There’s also a new touch module for the climate control functions with illuminated touch sliders for fan and temperature control. It’s pretty simple to use once you get the hang of it.
The FR model lives up to its sporty billing with a leather sports steering wheel with FR logo, leather gear selector and aluminium pedals at your feet.
Other standard equipment features include keyless start and entry, power folding mirrors, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, rear view camera, drive profile selection, front heated seats, park assist, and parking sensors.
Sporty and comfortable interior for the Tarraco FRDriving the Tarraco
The Tarraco is a big car but easy to manage and control, whether on the road or in the car park.
There’s little to complain about in terms of space. This is a large, versatile family car whatever way you look at it! Space is more limited in the third row, but it goes with the territory. It’s handy to have these extra two seats available. When these two extra seats are folded into the floor, the Tarraco offers a cavernous boot with great width and height.
On the road the Tarraco FR proves to be comfortable and refined, with the DSG automatic gearbox offering an even more relaxed drive. The 2.0-litre diesel is a powerful companion with plenty of torque. It’s also economical considering the size of the vehicle, with our fuel consumption averaging at 6.5 litres per 100 km. Motor tax for this model is €270 per year.
Did you like it?
The SEAT Tarraco FR is an exciting addition to the Tarraco range, bringing more individuality to this large SUV once again. All models come well-equipped, which is reassuring. But this Tarraco FR surely has presence that brings SEAT’s flagship on another gear.
It is largely a cosmetic update inside and out, but equipment levels are high so you will want for nothing inside the cabin!
The Tarraco makes a great family car regardless, with a huge cabin and plenty of comfort and refinement on the road. No wonder it’s an award winner!
The Tarraco FR adds more character to SEAT’s flagship SUVCaroline Kidd
Model tested: SEAT Tarraco 2.0 TDI 150hp DSG FR
Price: €47,365
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
Power: 150 hp
Torque: 360 Nm
Top speed: 196 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 5.6-6.0 l/100 km
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 10.1 seconds
CO2 emissions: 148-157 g/km
Motor Tax: €270 per year