The SEAT Ateca is a medium-sized SUV that sits above the SEAT Arona in the Spanish brand’s growing model range. Sure to be favoured by families, it’s a direct rival to popular models like the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008 and Skoda Karoq. Its trim levels are fairly straightforward, starting off with S and SE, while SE Technology and FR make up the middle ground and Xcellence is the range-topping model. Xcellence shuns the body-coloured lower bumpers of the sporty Ateca FR in favour of more rugged black trim, but it gets 18-inch ‘Performance’ alloy wheels and even projectors in the door mirrors that shine an Ateca welcome light onto the ground. Other distinctive touches include chrome exhaust pipes, aluminium roof rails, tinted rear windows and full LED headlights. Compared to the SE trim, Xcellence is distinguished inside with leather upholstery and sports seats, a black roof lining and ‘multi-colour’ ambient LED lighting along with aluminium door sills as you step inside. SEAT is hoping to become a leader for in-car technology, and the Ateca Xcellence shines here. Features like a rear-view camera, keyless entry and a wireless phone charger should make life that bit easier for owners in a hurry. There’s also a navigation system with 3D mapping and DAB digital radio. SEAT’s Convenience Pack (auto-dimming rear view mirror, automatic headlights and wipers) and Winter Pack (heated front seats, headlight washers and windscreen wash level) are thrown into the mix as part of the Xcellence package too.