Volkswagen T-Roc vs SEAT Ateca: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Volkswagen T-Roc and SEAT Ateca, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 162,281 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Volkswagen T-Roc edges ahead in this comparison with a 93% MOT pass rate versus 91% for the SEAT Ateca. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volkswagen T-Roc has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the SEAT Ateca may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volkswagen T-Roc
93%
MOT pass rate
96,787 tests
More reliableSEAT Ateca
91%
MOT pass rate
65,494 tests
Full Comparison: Volkswagen T-Roc vs SEAT Ateca
| Category | Volkswagen T-Roc | SEAT Ateca |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 93%Winner | 91% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 7%Winner | 9% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +11 ptsWinner | +9 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (diesel, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,510 | £1,510 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 15-25 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,500-£3,000 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.9L | 1.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 34,278 miWinner | 42,537 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 96,787 | 65,494 |
| Model Years | 5 years | 8 years |
| Best Year | 2019 (94%)Winner | 2019 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 2018 (92%)Winner | 2021 (90%) |
| Reliability Trend | Stable | Stable |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Volkswagen T-Roc: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
SEAT Ateca: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Volkswagen T-Roc vs SEAT Ateca FAQ
Can I compare a Volkswagen T-Roc and SEAT Ateca by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Volkswagen T-Roc or SEAT Ateca?
The Volkswagen T-Roc has the higher MOT pass rate, 93% compared to 91% for the SEAT Ateca (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Volkswagen T-Roc or SEAT Ateca?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Volkswagen T-Roc costs around £1,510 in fuel, while the SEAT Ateca costs around £1,510 (our estimates for diesel versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Volkswagen T-Roc or SEAT Ateca?
The Volkswagen T-Roc edges ahead in this comparison with a 93% MOT pass rate versus 91% for the SEAT Ateca. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volkswagen T-Roc has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the SEAT Ateca may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volkswagen T-Roc Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
SEAT Ateca Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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