Used SEAT Ateca FR

What is the SEAT Ateca FR?

The Ateca was SEAT’s first venture into producing SUVs. It was released in 2016 at a time when compact crossovers – sitting between a hatchback and SUV – were gaining popularity. The FR trim brings added sportiness inside and out. It builds on the tech of the SE Technology trim, making it smart as well as athletic.

The Ateca FR is popular with families and couples keen to get decent space for luggage thanks to its large 510-litre boot. It is similar to the SEAT Leon hatchback, but with a higher stance and roofline, giving occupants a more spacious-feeling cabin and drivers a good view of the road. With its FR trim, this version appeals to those who want to travel in comfort and who crave some sports styling.

SEAT created the Ateca FR based on the Volkswagen Tiguan. It is a smaller model, making it similar to the Škoda Karoq, which is built from the same foundations. It also competes with the Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 3008.

SEAT Ateca FR history

The SEAT Ateca, designed by the renowned Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. As a new car, it was awarded the Crossover of the Year by Auto Express. Following this success, the brand has sold 300,000 models, all of which fall under one generation.

Since its 2016 release date, all FR versions of the SEAT Ateca have been given a 1.5-litre 148bhp turbo petrol engine that can achieve 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds. This unit is the mid-level option in the Ateca range.

In 2020, the Ateca FR received a significant facelift. Exterior changes across the Ateca range were modest. They included a new grille, redesigned bumper, LED lights and the handwritten style logo you’ll see on a number of SEAT models. Given the refreshed bumper, the 2020 facelifted models are 18mm longer than previous ones. The FR, however, received additions such as LED rear lamps and dynamic indicators to elevate its smart look.

It is inside where the Ateca FR gained a significant overhaul during the 2020 facelift. A 9.2-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard gives drivers full smartphone connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Those who opt for the 2020-facelift version of the Ateca FR can also charge compatible smartphones wirelessly and use in-car apps via the screen. The driving instruments are displayed on a 10.25-inch digital screen in models from 2020 onwards. You can also view the sat nav on this screen, which helps keep your eyes on the road. The engine also had an upgrade in 2020 with added technology to use just two cylinders where possible, making it more fuel efficient.

The SEAT Ateca is due to cease production in 2024.

Where does the SEAT Ateca FR sit in the range?

The FR is a mid-level trim for the SEAT Ateca. It borrows the comfort and relaxing driving additions from the SE Technology and adds sporty touches like sports seats and different driving modes. These additions set it apart as an athletic trim, yet it retains the smart simplicity and practicality of the Ateca crossover that families value. Higher up in the range are the FR Sport, which takes the performance detailing up a level, along with the Xperience, which has premium comforts like heated seats and a camera to support with parking.

What features and equipment does the SEAT Ateca FR have?

The Ateca FR’s sportiness is evident from the exterior. Features like the rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and black roof rails give it a more performance-inspired look. Inside, the sporty feel continues with aluminium pedals and front sports seats.

As well as athletic extras, the Ateca has smart touches for a more professional feel. Keyless entry and rain-sensing wipers make every journey simpler. Ambient lighting also sets a comfortable mood during evening drives.

One of the most notable features in the FR trim is the addition of SEAT’s Drive Profile. You can switch between Normal, Eco, Sport and Individual driving modes depending on your journey preferences. The Sport mode gives more feedback from the accelerator pedal and alters the sound of the engine. Eco reduces throttle response and limits air conditioning usage to help save on fuel. With Individual, you can select the different driving components you prefer.

All these features build on the trims lower down in the range. That means you get these features on top of the 9.2-inch touchscreen, sat nav, voice controls and high-resolution instrument display.