| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Few British buyers see the point of the Ibiza-based Cordoba compact saloons and estates. These tough, practical, reliable but rather bland cars are a cheap choice as a result. |
| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Best Models |
| 1.9 TDi .cool |
| Worst Models |
| None |
|
| Road Test |
| Seat have produced some fine cars recently. Ibiza, Leon and Toledo are all good to look at and enjoyable to drive. But in Britain, Cordoba is the also-ran, even though it makes sense as reliable budget family wheels. It has lots of Golf DNA in its genes and it's compellingly good value. Cordoba imparts a strong feeling that it's a no-frills offering, built to a price. Model choice is limited; petrol versions lack ABS; and air conditioning is standard only on the oddly badged .cool cars. It's more spacious than its size suggests. The saloon's boot is big, while the rare Vario estate is a capable load-lugger. Comfort and refinement are more than adequate. Cordoba won't appeal to the keen driver - the long-lasting, workmanlike engines aren't powerful enough - but it's well mannered, stable, easy to drive and feels safe. Its little sister Ibiza gained three stars for NCAP crash tests. |
| Positive Points |
- Volkswagen heritage and technology guarantees durability
- Roomy, practical and well constructed
- Competitive running costs
|
| Negative Points |
- Dull, lumpen, uninspired, boring styling
- Most British buyers don't like small saloons
- Minimal image, so difficult to resell
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