Looking to buy a used Seat Arona - please review SEAT Arona (KJ7) (07.2017 - ...)

SEAT Arona is a great choice among compact crossovers! Here’s a concise guide to help you:
Reliability: The 2017 SEAT Arona is dependable if serviced regularly. Serious issues are rare with proper maintenance.
Comfort: Front seats are cozy, but rear seats can feel tight on long trips. Stylish design, good ground clearance, and a roomy trunk make it practical for everyday use.
Performance: Adequate dynamics for city driving and economical engines.
Common Feedback:
Pros: Spacious trunk, excellent visibility, modern design.
Cons: Stiff suspension on rough roads, average soundproofing, slightly higher fuel consumption than advertised, and basic interior plastics.
What to Check Before Buying:Service history and body condition (corrosion-prone areas), Suspension (shock absorbers, silent blocks)., Interior (seat and upholstery wear)., Electronics (test all systems).
Tip: Take a test drive and consider professional diagnostics before purchasing.

The Seat Arona is generally regarded as a reliable and practical small SUV, but there are some points to consider based on owner experiences and reliability data:

Reliability and Common Issues
- The Arona scored a 91% overall reliability rating in a 2023 survey, placing it mid-pack among small SUVs. It’s considered reasonably reliable but not as trouble-free as some rivals like the Toyota C-HR.
- Some recalls have affected the model, including issues with the handbrake adjuster, driver’s airbag inflation speed, and rear seatbelt buckles potentially unbuckling during emergency maneuvers. These have been addressed by dealers through free recall repairs.
- Infotainment glitches such as freezing or connectivity problems are commonly reported but often resolved by software resets or updates.
- A few owners have noted electrical anomalies and transmission issues (especially in automatic models) like rough shifting or delayed responses, which highlight the importance of regular servicing and fluid checks.
- Some minor annoyances include seatbelt clips breaking and occasional turbo hose noise, but these are usually fixable without major expense.

Unexpected Pros
- Owners appreciate the Arona’s practical size—it’s compact enough for city driving yet offers good interior space for passengers and cargo.
- The driving experience is generally enjoyable and efficient, with fuel economy around 45-50 mpg in real-world conditions, making it economical for daily use.
- The digital cockpit and customizable displays are well-liked for keeping essential info in clear view.
- The Arona shares many components with VW Group models, which can be a plus for parts availability and maintenance.

Unexpected Cons
- Some find the engine underwhelming at low revs, requiring higher revs for better responsiveness.
- The infotainment system can be frustrating due to occasional freezes or glitches.
- The handbrake and seatbelt recalls may raise concerns, but these are fixed under warranty if addressed promptly.
- The warranty is standard at 3 years/60,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors.


The Seat Arona is a solid, practical choice for a small SUV with good fuel economy and enjoyable driving characteristics. While it has some minor reliability quirks and recalls to be aware of, these are generally manageable with proper maintenance and dealer support. If you value a compact, efficient crossover with modern features and don’t mind occasional infotainment glitches, the Arona is worth considering.