SEAT TOLEDO Buying Guide & Reliability (2001-2019)

SEAT TOLEDO Overview The SEAT Toledo is a compact family car that has been in production from 2001 to 2019, with a total of 159 registered vehicles in the UK. This model has undergone several iterations, appealing to a diverse range of drivers looking for practicality and style.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

SEAT TOLEDO Overview

SEAT TOLEDO Overview

The SEAT Toledo is a compact family car that has been in production from 2001 to 2019, with a total of 159 registered vehicles in the UK. This model has undergone several iterations, appealing to a diverse range of drivers looking for practicality and style.

With a MOT pass rate of 78.4%, the Toledo demonstrates a reasonable level of reliability. However, common failures have been noted in various categories, including 'Other' issues (28 cases), tyres (24), brakes (16), suspension (15), and lighting (11). These statistics highlight areas where potential buyers should exercise caution.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the Toledo is predominantly available in diesel (104 units) compared to petrol (55 units). This suggests a preference among owners for the fuel efficiency typically associated with diesel engines.

Colour preferences for the SEAT Toledo show a notable inclination towards grey (37 units), followed closely by silver (35), blue (29), white (22), and black (20). This variety allows buyers to choose a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

The year distribution of registered vehicles indicates a significant presence of models from 2014 and 2013, each with 27 units. In contrast, the 2019 models are the least common, with only 2 registered vehicles. This trend may reflect the model's popularity during its peak years.

Regarding tax status, 84 vehicles are currently taxed, while 51 are untaxed and 24 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This data can be useful for prospective buyers assessing the vehicle's current status.

Overall, the SEAT Toledo offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it a viable option for many drivers. Please note that the data presented is based on current records and may be subject to change.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The SEAT Toledo, produced between 2001 and 2019, has a total of 159 registered vehicles in the UK. With an overall MOT pass rate of 78.4%, this model demonstrates a reasonable level of reliability, although it is essential for owners to be aware of common issues that may arise during testing.

In total, 1,660 MOT tests have been conducted on the SEAT Toledo, revealing several categories where failures are most prevalent. The most common reasons for MOT failures include 'Other' issues, accounting for 28 failures, followed by tyre-related problems (24 failures), brake deficiencies (16 failures), suspension issues (15 failures), and lighting faults (11 failures). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance and checks to ensure compliance with MOT standards.

When examining the fuel type distribution, it is notable that diesel variants are more prevalent, with 104 diesel vehicles compared to 55 petrol models. This may influence the choice of potential buyers, particularly those concerned with fuel efficiency and emissions.

In terms of colour distribution, grey is the most common colour for the SEAT Toledo, with 37 vehicles, followed closely by silver (35), blue (29), white (22), and black (20). This variety allows for personalisation, catering to different aesthetic preferences among drivers.

Regarding tax status, 84 of the registered vehicles are taxed, while 51 are untaxed and 24 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information can be useful for prospective buyers assessing the vehicle's history and current status.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current trends or individual vehicle conditions. Always consult a professional for specific advice regarding vehicle reliability and performance.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used SEAT Toledo, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure a sound purchase. With a total of 159 registration plates recorded, this model has been on the market from 2001 to 2019, offering a range of options across different years.

First, check the MOT history. The average MOT pass rate for the SEAT Toledo stands at 78.4%, which indicates that while many vehicles pass, a significant number may have issues. Pay particular attention to common failures, which include categories such as 'Other' (28 failures), tyres (24 failures), brakes (16 failures), suspension (15 failures), and lighting (11 failures). These areas are crucial to inspect during your evaluation.

Next, consider the fuel type. The distribution shows that 104 of the vehicles are diesel, while 55 are petrol. Depending on your driving habits and preferences, this may influence your choice. Additionally, the colour distribution reveals that grey (37), silver (35), and blue (29) are the most common colours, which may affect resale value and personal preference.

It's also important to review the vehicle's tax status. Out of the 159 vehicles, 84 are currently taxed, while 51 are untaxed and 24 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information can provide insight into the vehicle's usage and maintenance history.

Finally, consider the average annual mileage, which is approximately 8,411 miles. A lower mileage may indicate less wear and tear, while higher mileage could suggest more frequent maintenance needs. Always verify the mileage against the service history for accuracy.

In summary, thorough checks on MOT history, common failures, fuel type, tax status, and mileage are essential when purchasing a used SEAT Toledo. Always ensure to verify the data accuracy with the seller and consider obtaining a professional inspection.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The SEAT Toledo, produced between 2001 and 2019, has a diverse range of specifications and running costs that appeal to various drivers. With a total of 159 registration plates recorded, this model has proven to be a popular choice in the UK automotive market.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the Toledo is predominantly available in diesel (104 units) compared to petrol (55 units). This suggests a preference for diesel among owners, likely due to its fuel efficiency and lower running costs. The average annual mileage for Toledo owners stands at 8,411 miles, which is relatively modest and may contribute to lower wear and tear over time.

The MOT pass rate for the SEAT Toledo is 78.4%, indicating a reasonable level of reliability. However, common failures have been noted, with the most frequent issues arising in categories such as 'Other' (28 failures), tyres (24 failures), and brakes (16 failures). These statistics highlight areas where potential buyers should exercise caution.

Colour distribution among the Toledo models shows a preference for grey (37 units), followed closely by silver (35 units) and blue (29 units). This variety allows buyers to choose a colour that suits their personal taste.

Regarding tax status, 84 units are currently taxed, while 51 are untaxed and 24 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for prospective buyers to consider when evaluating the overall running costs of the vehicle.

In summary, the SEAT Toledo offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it a viable option for many drivers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported and consider the vehicle's history before making a purchase.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details with a trusted source.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the SEAT Toledo, it may be beneficial to explore alternative models that offer similar features and performance. The Toledo, produced between 2001 and 2019, has a total of 159 registered vehicles in the UK, with a notable MOT pass rate of 78.4%. However, understanding other options can help you make a more informed decision.

One alternative to consider is the Skoda Octavia. Known for its reliability and spacious interior, the Octavia has a strong reputation in the compact car segment. It also boasts a variety of engine options, including efficient diesel variants, which may appeal to those looking for fuel economy.

Another model worth exploring is the Volkswagen Golf. The Golf is renowned for its build quality and driving dynamics. With a wide range of trims and engine choices, it caters to various preferences, making it a versatile option for many drivers.

The Ford Focus is also a strong contender. It offers a dynamic driving experience and a comfortable cabin. With a good selection of petrol and diesel engines, the Focus is a popular choice among UK motorists.

When considering alternatives, it's essential to look at common issues reported by owners. For the SEAT Toledo, common MOT failures include categories such as tyres (24 failures), brakes (16 failures), and suspension (15 failures). This data can provide insight into potential maintenance considerations for any vehicle.

In terms of fuel type, the Toledo has a distribution of 104 diesel and 55 petrol vehicles, which may influence your choice depending on your driving habits and fuel preferences. Additionally, the colour distribution shows a preference for grey (37 vehicles) and silver (35 vehicles), which might also affect resale value.

Ultimately, while the SEAT Toledo is a solid option, exploring alternatives like the Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Golf, and Ford Focus can help you find a vehicle that best suits your needs.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on current statistics and may not reflect future trends or individual vehicle conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the SEAT Toledo produced?

The SEAT Toledo was produced between 2001 and 2019, with various models released throughout this period. The model years include 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and later models from 2012 to 2019.

What is the MOT pass rate for the SEAT Toledo?

The MOT pass rate for the SEAT Toledo stands at 78.4%. This figure indicates the percentage of vehicles that successfully pass their MOT tests without requiring any immediate repairs.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the SEAT Toledo include issues related to tyres (24 failures), brakes (16 failures), and suspension (15 failures). Additionally, there are 28 failures categorised as 'Other' and 11 related to lighting.

What fuel types are available for the SEAT Toledo?

The SEAT Toledo is available in both diesel and petrol variants, with 104 diesel models and 55 petrol models registered. This distribution allows buyers to choose based on their fuel preference.

What colours are most popular for the SEAT Toledo?

In terms of colour distribution, grey is the most popular choice with 37 vehicles, followed closely by silver (35), blue (29), white (22), and black (20).

How many SEAT Toledo vehicles are currently taxed?

Out of the 159 registered SEAT Toledo vehicles, 84 are currently taxed, while 51 are untaxed and 24 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify details with official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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