BADGE snobbery is endemic in the UK and it can be a drawback for sometimes it means motorists overlook a bargain.

The new SEAT Exeo Sport Tech, 2.0-litre TDI CR, 143PS Multitronic is a prime example.

Sharing a platform and more than 50 per cent of its DNA with Audi's A4, this Spanish built executive model offers excellent value for money.

Where else could you get German technology wrapped up with Spanish flair for just £24,215?

Or to put it another way. Where could you get a 'veritable' Audi for this price?

Yet while it shares the German zeal for top drawer quality, and wears its common engineering identity with pride, make no mistake, this is a SEAT from its 18-inch alloys upwards.

Over more than 60 miles of undulating roads I found this well appointed and rather spacious vehicle to be totally relaxing.

It handled tight twisty lanes with great aplomb and along dual carriageways quickly settled into a smooth cruise that would make it an ideal choice for any long distance touring exercise.

On top of this with the ability to reach 62mph in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 129mph, it has a hint of sports performance about it.

Its suspension is on the firm side, but it is not harsh. Its steering is nicely balanced, and with seating and steering wheel rake movements allowing individual drivers to choose their most suitable driving position, it offers an enhanced driving experience.

Under acceleration its straight line speed is true and under braking there is no hint of slip or slide. It is definitely a positive handler with no nasty surprises to catch out an unwary driver.

Another important ingredient in its make-up is its extensive list of standard fittings which include DVD-based satellite navigation system with colour screen and SD card slots.

BOSE premium audio upgrade, rain sensors, automatic headlight sensors, cruise control, ESP and EBA, remote central locking, bluetooth hands free phone system, leather upholstery, tyre pressure monitors, and a host of other items combine to make the cabin one with more than a touch of luxury about it.

This car will tempt retail buyers by the score, but it will also attract hosts of fleet buyers who want reasonably priced, highly specified models like this.

SEAT obviously has had all this in mind when designing this new Multitronic version with its continually variable transmission - again as used in the Audi.

Not only does it have a bite about its performance, but it boasts executive luxury throughout and yet still finds room to offer owners environmental friendly and economical running costs.

Gear changes are smooth and accurate and helps boost fuel economy. Its urban fuel cycle is 37.2.mpg, the extra urban figure is 58.7mpg and the combined rating 48.7mpg.

With CO2 of 153g/km it falls into the VED band of G (£165 in the first year) and for business users has a BiK rating of 23 per cent.

When the Exeo was first introduced a couple of years ago it was impressive value for money and this latest auto diesel with its refined make-up, sporty performance, and high end finish, is light years ahead of the early models.

It is a rising star in SEAT's already extensive portfolio of popular and rather fashionable models.