Other variants to which the star rating can be applied:
Seat Exeo 1.6 'Reference' without knee airbag.
Adult occupant
The passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact. In the Netherlands, where the test cars were bought, a driver knee airbag is fitted as standard equipment: it is not available in all European countries. However, test results indicated that the airbag had not performed effectively and structures in the dashboard were still considered to present a risk of injury to the knees and femurs. The score is very similar to a car with no driver knee airbag and the star rating applies to cars which have the airbag and to those which do not. The car scored maximum points in the side barrier test. However, in the more severe side pole test, dummy rib deflections indicated weak chest protection. Marginal protection was provided against whiplash injuries in a rear-end collision.
Child occupant
Based on dummy readings from the frontal and side impact tests, the car scored maximum points for its protection of the 3 year infant. Forward movement of the head was not excessive and the dummy was properly contained by the restraint in the side impact, as was the 18 month infant. The passenger airbag can be disabled to allow a rearward facing restraint to be used in that seating position. However, information provided to the driver regarding the status of the airbag is not sufficiently clear. The label warning of the dangers of using a rearward facing child seat without first disabling the airbag is also unclear and is not permanently attached to the car.
Pedestrian
The bumper provided predominantly good protection to pedestrians' legs but the front edge of the bonnet scored no points. The bonnet offered marginal protection in those areas likely to be struck by a child's head but poor protection in the areas where an adult's head might hit.
Safety assist
Electronic stability control is standard equipment on all variants, as is a seatbelt reminder for the driver's seat. A driver-set speed warning system is also standard but it was not assessed fr the purposes of this rating.