SPANISH TRY (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

SEAT's Arona still has an important role to play in the Spanish maker's model line-up. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at the latest version.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 35

This further refreshed SEAT Arona is a small SUV that still has something to offer in the compact crossover segment. Subtle updates are surprisingly effective in giving this Spanish contender a fresh lease of life.

Backgroundword count: 108

The Arona is SEAT's idea of a small sporty SUV and though it hasn't sold in particularly large numbers in the UK, it's found 750,000 buyers globally since its launch in 2017, with a first refresh back in 2021. This car was originally developed as part of the 900 million Euro investment set aside to create the fifth generation Ibiza and shares its oily bits with that Barcelona marque's supermini. It also shares this further Model Year 2026 update with that car and hopes to still suit people who want a small SUV that's a little more interesting and lifestyle-orientated than the norm. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experienceword count: 221

The Arona still shares its engine line-up with SEAT's Ibiza supermini, but there's now a slimmed-down range of options - at least for the time being. Mild hybrid eTSI petrol units are promised in 2027. For the time being though, as with the Ibiza, the line-up's primarily based around the usual VW Group three cylinder 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol unit, available in 95PS form with a five-speed manual gearbox or in 115PS guise with either a six-speed 'box or dual-clutch seven-speed DSG auto transmission. The third petrol choice is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder 150PS TSI unit with active cylinder deactivation technology, which is now exclusive to the Arona and has to be had with the DSG auto. Helped by its stiff, supple MQB platform, this Arona has always been one of the more entertaining small hatches to drive - and you'll find that little's changed in that regard. Body control's great and though the ride isn't quite as smooth as this model's VW T-Cross close cousin, it's not far off. Which means it's pretty good. The little 1.0-litre engine's a torquey cheerful thing. But the DSG auto can still be a little lethargic when you're pushing along - as the drive dynamics here might encourage you to do. All Arona models are front-driven: there's not much appetite in this segment for 4WD.

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