The Seat Arona 1.0 TGI (90 hp) represents a unique offering within the second-generation Arona subcompact SUV lineup, specifically produced from June 2021 to February 2023. This variant distinguished itself by utilizing a dedicated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powertrain, catering to markets increasingly focused on alternative fuels and lower emissions. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, the 1.0 TGI aimed to provide a more economical and environmentally conscious alternative to the standard gasoline-powered Arona models. It falls within the broader context of the Volkswagen Group’s efforts to offer CNG vehicles across its various brands, leveraging shared technology and platforms.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Arona |
| Generation | Arona (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TGI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2021 |
| End of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) (CNG) | 4.1-6 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) (WLTP) | 103-107 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (CNG) (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 4.3 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (CNG) (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 3.1 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CNG) (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 3.5 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 96 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h / 110.6 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 AP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 129.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1800-3800 rpm / 118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DBYA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 / 60.96 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm / 2.93 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm / 3.01 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l / 4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1236 kg / 2724.91 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg / 3791.95 lbs |
| Max load | 484 kg / 1067.04 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 282 l / 9.96 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1162 l / 41.04 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 9 l / 2.38 US gal | 1.98 UK gal |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 13.8 kg |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg / 165.35 lbs |
| Length | 4153 mm / 163.5 in. |
| Width | 1780 mm / 70.08 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 1942 mm / 76.46 in. |
| Height | 1552 mm / 61.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2566 mm / 101.02 in. |
| Front track | 1513 mm / 59.57 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1495 mm / 58.86 in. |
| Front overhang | 809 mm / 31.85 in. |
| Rear overhang | 778 mm / 30.63 in. |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m / 34.78 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 256×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 228×42 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 92H; 205/55 R17 91V; 215/45 R18 89V |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 ET45; 6.5J x 17 ET48; 7J x 18 ET47 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Arona 1.0 TGI is the DBYA engine code, a 999cc three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine specifically adapted for both gasoline and CNG operation. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that enhances efficiency and reduces emissions. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, compensating for the relatively small displacement. When running on CNG, the engine management system automatically switches to the appropriate fuel map, optimizing performance for the alternative fuel. The engine produces 90 horsepower between 4000 and 5500 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque from 1800 to 3800 rpm. The engine features a timing belt and four valves per cylinder. The Arona 1.0 TGI came exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 TGI Arona delivers a driving experience geared towards economy and practicality. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 12.5 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 13.2 seconds, making it noticeably slower than Arona models equipped with larger gasoline engines. The turbocharger helps mitigate some of the performance deficit, providing reasonable responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The manual transmission requires more driver involvement than an automatic, but it allows for better control and contributes to improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds at highway cruising. When running on CNG, a slight reduction in power output is typically observed, but the lower fuel costs often outweigh this compromise.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 TGI trim generally occupied a mid-range position within the Arona lineup. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and upgraded interior upholstery. The interior design was consistent with other Arona models, featuring a functional and modern layout. Options such as a panoramic sunroof and navigation system were available, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Arona 1.0 TGI utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Arona 1.0 TGI was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. However, its relatively modest performance was a common point of criticism. Compared to the 1.5 TSI gasoline engine, the 1.0 TGI offered significantly less power and acceleration. However, it provided a compelling alternative for drivers prioritizing economy and environmental responsibility. The fuel economy advantage of CNG, coupled with government incentives in some markets, made the 1.0 TGI an attractive option for those with access to CNG refueling infrastructure. Reliability reports suggest that the DBYA engine is generally robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Legacy
The Seat Arona 1.0 TGI represents a significant step in Seat’s commitment to alternative fuel vehicles. While CNG adoption remains limited in some regions, the 1.0 TGI provided a viable option for environmentally conscious buyers. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their low running costs and reduced emissions. The DBYA engine, while not known for its blistering performance, has proven to be a reliable and durable unit when properly maintained. As the automotive industry continues to transition towards electrification, the Arona 1.0 TGI serves as a reminder of the role that CNG played in bridging the gap between traditional gasoline engines and zero-emission vehicles.
