With the car as a four-seater, luggage space is tight, despite the space-saver-only beneath the load platform. The loftier-than-average front seats support well, making up for the suspension’s indifferent response to poorer road surfaces. Under-seat metalwork robs the one behind the driver of footspace, but kneeroom is improved. Provided they’re not too lanky, these passengers find their seats comfortable enough, too. The sheer size of the doors can be a parking problem, but they and the front seats ensure surprisingly easy passage for rear occupants. We found ventilation a problem, however, because the facia vents’ aim is poor and there are neither hinged rear quarter windows nor a sunroof. Handset central locking, seat and wheel adjusters and a driver’s airbag. There may be no options available currently, but the S trim now features A change-up advisory light would be a good idea. However, the driver must capitalise on this 1.4TDi’s willingness to run slowly – at 40mph, for instance, there’s an eight per cent mpg advantage in fifth (running at 1500rpm) compared with fourth. So we have here an engine that gives identical mpg to the Lupo 1.7SDi, but leaves it behind in both overtaking ability and mechanical manners.
This impressive mechanical refinement is partly due to the three-pot engine (fewer firing pulses at any speed), but mainly because its contra-rotating balancer shaft prevents the vibes that beset many four-cylinder diesels – including VW’s.
It offers tremor-free, low-rev response, plus clatter-free starting and higher-speed cruising ability that makes longer trips no trouble at all. What you do get, however, is arguably the best small diesel currently available. Like the options list, engine choice is wider on the VW – you can’t have ABS or air conditioning on this (cheaper) 1.4TDi Arosa, but the price is £1000 lower than for the Lupo equivalent. Current Arosas all have the firmer suspension settings found on some Lupos, while the 1.4/60bhp petrol version of the Arosa now comes with auto-only transmission. HE ONLY REAL DIFFERENCE between the Arosa and VW’s Lupo is in equipment, engine availability and the resulting price. Overtaking ability Space/practicality Controls/displays Safety Handling/steering Comfort Fuel economy
Seat Arosa Featured model: 1.4TDi S AT A GLANCE considering size, price and rivals
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