2003 Seat Cordoba SE TDI 130 review from UK and Ireland

No faults yet after 10 months of intensive motoring!

The new shape Cordoba, based on the latest Ibiza, offers tremendous value for money.

The refined, powerful 'pump duse' TDI Turbo Diesel provides slingshot acceleration to shame many compact executives and 'hot hatches' - Lexus IS200 and the like offer no challenge to the latest Cordoba!

60mpg is an everyday occurrence unless full use of the performance is made.

The cabin is exceptionally solid and well made, but a little gloomy until night falls and the glorious deep red illumination lifts things to Audi-like standards.

As you would expect from a VAG product that borrows heavily from the Polo/Golf/A2 and A3 this is a very well finished car.

Unlike its Audi/VW counterparts, however, the Cordoba is very well equipped and this SE packs Climatronic climate control, electrics all round, CD player and twin airbags.

The handling and ride are on the sporty side and the all round disc brakes are backed with ABS and EBA brake assist.

The cabin is very roomy and, as with the previous Cordoba the boot is simple huge - the main reason I purchased this Cordoba in preference to a Leon is the massive boot that allows me to fit all of the pro video equipment required for my job without folding the rear seats which, if ever needed, are split-folding!

My dislikes are the lack of availability of a Sport version as available in the Ibiza. Although this SE offers smart alloy wheels and nice upholstery, the Sport Ibiza has bigger wheels and a much nicer steering wheel, with 'recaro' style front seats.