The Seat Exeo ST 2.0 TDI (170 hp) is a station wagon that was produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer Seat between September 2011 and May 2013. This variant represents a facelifted version of the original Exeo ST, building upon the platform shared with the Audi A4 (B7) generation. The Exeo ST, in general, aimed to provide a more premium and spacious offering within Seat’s lineup, competing with established players in the mid-size wagon segment. The 2.0 TDI 170 hp model occupied a mid-range position, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and equipment levels. It was positioned above the lower-powered TDI variants and below the more expensive petrol-powered options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeo ST 2.0 TDI is the Volkswagen Group’s EA189 series common rail diesel engine, specifically the CGLB engine code. This is a 1968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement. The compression ratio is a high 16.5:1, typical for diesel engines. Engine oil capacity is 4.6 liters (4.86 US qt / 4.05 UK qt) and requires a specification adhering to VW standards. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.
Transmission
The 2.0 TDI 170 hp Exeo ST was primarily equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. While an automatic transmission was available as an option, the manual gearbox was the more common configuration. The 6-speed manual provides a good balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. Gear ratios are tuned to maximize torque utilization, providing strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The transmission is front-wheel drive, as with all Exeo ST models.
Driving Characteristics
The Exeo ST 2.0 TDI 170 hp delivers a respectable driving experience. The engine produces 170 hp at 4200 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque between 1750-2500 rpm. This torque band provides strong pulling power from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for overtaking and carrying loads. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.6 seconds, and 0-60 mph is achieved in around 8.2 seconds. The car has a top speed of 224 km/h (139.19 mph). Compared to the lower-powered TDI variants, the 170 hp version offers noticeably improved acceleration and overall responsiveness. While not as sporty as the petrol-powered Exeo models, the 2.0 TDI provides ample power for most driving scenarios. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, while the optional automatic transmission prioritizes convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Exeo ST 2.0 TDI 170 hp typically came with a good level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, an audio system with MP3 compatibility, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the Sport and Stylance, added features like automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a multi-function steering wheel, parking sensors, and upgraded upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, reflecting the Audi A4 origins of the platform. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and xenon headlights.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeo ST utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with independent suspension on all four wheels. The front suspension consists of a multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal lever design, also with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels (312×25 mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (255×12 mm). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Standard tire size is 225/45 R17 or 225/40 R18, fitted to 7J x 17 or 8J x 18 inch alloy wheels respectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Exeo ST 2.0 TDI 170 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Fuel consumption figures are rated at 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg / 38.7 UK mpg) in urban conditions, 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg / 64.2 UK mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg / 52.3 UK mpg) combined. CO2 emissions are 142 g/km. Compared to the lower-powered TDI variants, the 170 hp model offered a significant improvement in performance without a substantial penalty in fuel economy. Compared to petrol-powered Exeo models, the 2.0 TDI provided superior fuel efficiency and torque. However, some critics noted that the interior, while well-built, lacked the outright luxury of some competitors. Reliability was generally good, although the DPF could be a potential source of issues if the vehicle was primarily used for short journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Exeo ST |
| Generation | Exeo ST (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2011 year |
| End of production | May, 2013 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg / 38.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg / 64.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg / 52.3 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CGLB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1515 kg (3340 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 422 l (14.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4666 mm (183.7 in.) |
| Width | 1772 mm (69.76 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2642 mm (104.02 in.) |
| 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 |
Legacy
The Seat Exeo ST, including the 2.0 TDI 170 hp variant, represents a unique chapter in Seat’s history. It was the brand’s first foray into the mid-size wagon segment and demonstrated Seat’s ability to produce a relatively premium vehicle. While production was relatively short-lived, the Exeo ST has developed a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. On the used car market, the 2.0 TDI 170 hp models are generally considered to be a good value, offering a blend of performance and economy. The EA189 engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF. Properly maintained examples continue to provide reliable transportation, and the Exeo ST remains a practical and appealing option for those seeking a spacious and efficient station wagon.
