SEAT TO EXPAND RANGE WITH NEW B-SEGMENT MODEL
SEAT's intention to continue its growth and offer 'auto emoción' in yet more market sectors has been demonstrated once again, with the announcement that it will produce two new models in the B-segment.
The B-segment, still one of Western Europe's largest market sectors with annual sales last year of 1,147,200 (source: AID), includes competitors such as the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 407 and Toyota Avensis. SEAT S.A. President Erich Schmitt has confirmed that the company will enter into this market in 2009 with two variants: a saloon and an estate.
As with all SEAT models (with the exception of the seven-seat Alhambra, which is manufactured in Portugal), the new models will be built at the Spanish firm's ultra-modern Martorell plant, located close to Barcelona. The company also has a substantial research and development facility at this location – the Martorell Technical Centre – employing around 1,250 highly qualified staff. No other car manufacturer based in Spain has the capacity to design, develop and produce its own vehicles in the country.
Commenting to Spanish media representatives in Martorell, at the announcement of the new models, Erich Schmitt said: 'The assignment of these two new models to the plant in Martorell is an historic step for SEAT. By these means, we enlarge our current product range, which not only gives our clients the possibility to grow with the brand, but also enables us to increase the profitability of our dealer network thanks to the availability of these new models.'
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
2009 Seat sedan
Sunday, May 27, 2007
New Seat Altea Freetrack
SEAT REVEALS FIRST DETAILS OF NEW ALTEA FREETRACK
• First all-road car from SEAT
• Four-wheel drive, increased ride height, tough-looking styling
• 200 PS petrol and 170 PS diesel engines
• Rear seat multimedia system fitted as standard
SEAT has released the first pictures and details of the rugged new Altea freetrack, which will make its world debut at the Barcelona Motor Show on 7th June.
The Altea freetrack is the first SEAT designed to be driven off-road, and as such features Haldex-type four-wheel drive, 40 mm of extra ground clearance and 4x4-inspired body addendum over and above the Altea XL, on which the new model is based.
Typically of SEAT and its sporty ethos, the newcomer will only feature powerful 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines – a 200 PS T FSI and 170 PS TDI – and promises to deliver a dynamic on-road driving experience.
Performance is brisk for a car of this type: the 2.0 T FSI has a maximum speed of 133 mph, with 0 to 62 mph taking 7.5 seconds, while the 2.0 TDI boasts figures of 127 mph and 8.7 seconds respectively. Despite their turn of speed, the two models' fuel economy is impressive, with respective provisional figures of 30 mpg and 41.5 mpg.
Visually, the Altea freetrack is very distinctive. The most noticeable features are the impenetrable-looking protective front and rear bumpers, which are linked to each other by a similar moulding that runs below the waistline. New and exclusive 17" alloy wheels and larger diameter tyres complete the exterior appearance.
The Altea freetrack's Haldex-type transmission features a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control. This flexible arrangement means that in normal use, power is fully transferred to the front wheels – but as traction deteriorates, up to 50% can be automatically distributed to the rear as required.
Not only is the new Altea freetrack sporty and capable when the going gets tough, it is also more than suited to an even harder challenge – the rigours of family life. With a capacious 593 litre boot, picnic tables and a split rear-seat that can slide back and forth by as much as 16 cm, the newcomer is perfect for the whole clan. And with a multimedia system fitted as standard, SEAT has even included the elusive 'mute-the-kids' button!
The Altea freetrack will be sold with just one trim level when it arrives in UK showrooms this September, featuring a very comprehensive list of equipment.
The multimedia system is the highlight, comprising a roof-mounted 7" screen with RCA connection that allows a link to a DVD player, video games, a laptop computer and even an MP3 player. This way the sound is transmitted through the car's stereo system.
Further standard-fit elements on the Altea freetrack include dual zone climate control, rain sensor wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, trip computer, light sensor headlights, and CD MP3 stereo with steering-wheel mounted controls. Rear door window blinds are also fitted as standard, which are stored neatly within the door when not required. Safety equipment includes ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), six airbags and a tyre pressure warning system.
The new Altea freetrack was wholly designed and developed at the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell, and will be exclusively made at the Martorell factory, which is one of Europe's most modern and flexible automotive facilities.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Seat Leon Cupra (JE Design)
Following modifications for the newly launched Leon FR, JE DESIGN German Leingarten tuners, well-known refiners for SEAT, now resolve to take on the Spanish in the completion of the "CUPRA". While the "old" Seat Leon Cupra R (Typ 1M) has differed through its sporty and independent front and rear aprons from the Leon-vesions with less power, the new "CUPRA" threatens the driver into danger of confusion.
The SEAT specialist JE DESIGN recognised this and offers help in form of an individualized grand entrance. Specially developed for the CUPRA from the Leingarten, Germany, based tuners, is a downforcer insert for the centre of the series-produced front apron and which at the same time minimizes buoyancy. The same function is fulfilled with a diffuser insert that is applied to the series-produced rear apron. More sportiness is procured through a new front grille minus Logo including grid insert. Headlight covers gives the Spanish car a serious glance.
Sporty front spoiler corners complete with additional air channels provide the JE DESIGNed Leon CUPRA with more passing-lane prestige. The sides are optimised with a side sills set through JE DESIGN. The tuners create another attractive addition through the rear apron set. Last but not least a rear wing provides more downforce on the rear axle especially during higher speeds. Furthermore, a self-adhering JE DESIGN roof fin "Shark attack" is available in black matt.
For an extra charge, JE DESIGN laminates individual parts for example the radiator grill or mirror cover in Carbon-Look.
The core of modification is the performance increase of the 2.0 T-FSI Motor . Instead of just 177 kW (240 HP), it now renders an attention getting value of 210 kW (285 HP). The torque increases from 85 to 385 Nm. The change in motor management creates a better driving performance: 261 km/h top speed (series-produced: 247 km/h) and 5,9 seconds from 0 to 100 (series-produced: 6,4) placing pressure on many other sports cars. For that reason, JE DESIGN Leon „CUPRA" with its 250 km/h easily shakes off the electronic regular BMW M5 and Audi RS4. The power enhancement comes with TÜV parts endorsement. Included in the price is a 1-year guarantee on motor, transmission and gearbox. On request for additional price is the possibility to add a further year of guarantee.
Whoever wants acustical improvement for their Leon CUPRA, can order a 4-pipe end exhaust made of stainless steel with chromed end pipes additionally. This promises not only a sonor sound, but also optimises the motor performance through optimized exhaust flow.
JE DESIGN's wheel expertise
Four wheel sets are provided for customer choice. A highpoint offered in 18 and 19-inch is the complete wheel set „Multispoke" in chrome-look with the sizes of 8.0 x 19 ET 45 with tires 225/35 R 19 Y.
Optionally, the complete wheel set „Multispoke" can be ordered in matt black with polished rim flange in dimensions 7.5 x 18" ET 45 or 8 x 19" ET 45.
The Leon CUPRA of this press release - please take a look at the provided pictures (on CD) - rolls on wheel rims in sporty matt black with lacquered nearly complete white ring having a small gap tha includes the JE DESIGN logo.
JE DESIGN concerns itself that the Seat Leon power doesn't toss itself from the street. For this reason, a sporty spring set brings the Leon CUPRA approx. 30mm closer to the street, lowering the center of gravity for clearly improved handling and driving ability. Alternatively, the tuners offer a sportier driving performance through a coilover suspension that alters the fiery Spaniard providing a freedom from street between 35 and 65 mm.
A further technical as well as optically pleasing configuration level of the CUPRA with over 300 HP in a wide body version is currently in preparation for a world exclusive presentation at the SEAT Event from 24 - 26 August 2007 at the Technik Museum in Speyer, Germany. Further event information can be found at www.seat-event.info.
Source: JE DESIGN
Related Posts
• 2009 Seat sedan
• New Seat Altea Freetrack
• SEAT Altea Freetrack at the Geneva Motor Show
• Seat Altea Freetrack concept
Thursday, March 8, 2007
SEAT Altea Freetrack at the Geneva Motor Show
PRESS RELEASE:
SEAT ALTEA FREETRACK PROTOTYPE
SEAT unveils its first 4x4 in Geneva
•A concept-car that previews the street model
•4-wheel drive and 240 hp 2.0 TFSI engine
•Shakira visits the SEAT stand tomorrow, exhibiting the León Pies Descalzos
•This morning, SEAT President Erich Schmitt has unveiled the latest creation of the Spanish carmaker in Geneva – the Altea Freetrack Prototype – a sneak preview of SEAT's first SUV, which will soon be seen both on-road and off.
During the presentation, Mr. Schmitt stated that "this prototype comes in response to the increasing demand for 4x4 vehicles, and opens the possibilities for SEAT in this segment". More importantly however, this SEAT vehicle goes several steps further. As the company President said, "the SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype is an excellent 4x4, a roomy family car with enormous load capacity and a true sportscar all rolled into one, both for its dynamic design and the powerful 240 hp 2.0 TFSI at its heart".
Adventurous spirit
The SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype is anauthentic sporty 4x4, ready to safely tackle any off-road path chosen. With a ground clearance of 310 mm, its angles of approach and departure and its ramp breakover angle are those of a true off-roader: 26°, 29°and 23° respectively.
The prototype exhibited at the SEAT stand combines the outward looks of a typical 4x4, with the Spanish maker's trademark dynamic, sporty silhouette.
Immediately visible is the powerful design statement, with a body that is 60 mm wider than the Altea XL. The oversized bumpers feature aluminium embellishers, while at the rear the triangular exhaust pipes are set directly into the bumper itself. Similar to most 4x4s, the rear also sports the spare wheel, topped by the SEAT logo and an original "4x4" symbol that emphasises the models all-terrain capacity.
Seen from the side, the first thing you notice are the imposing 19 inch alloy wheels, atypical on an all-terrain vehicle. Finally, the exterior is graced with exclusive matt white paint, enhancing the SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype's positive, open nature.
Eye-catching details on the inside
Once inside the SEAT prototype, you immediately notice the original 2+2 seating arrangement and bucket-style competition seats, as well as the broad panoramic ceiling. Its two-tone brown and white leather upholstery adds a touch of bright refinement which the floodlight ceiling greatly enhances.
The dashboard has been carefully designed and fitted, using leather and aluminium freely with a soft finish on the passenger side.
The remarkable central console features two screens at the top that deliver all navigation information, including all kinds of details required for off-road driving, and the climatiser at the bottom. The newly designed air nozzles are vertically positioned on the central console and arranged in circles at the sides.
Top-class engine
The same engine that powers the León Cupra, the 240 hp 2.0 TFSI, is responsible for making the SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype a roaring sportscar, thanks to its top-notch performance levels. This 2.0 TFSI transmits all its energy to all four wheels via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control that guarantees permanent, steady and precise power distribution.
Shakira and the SEAT León Pies Descalzos
The popular Colombian singer Shakira, whose tour is being taken across Europe by SEAT, will be on hand today at 13:45 at the SEAT stand to sign the León "Pies Descalzos". This model, which is also on display at the Motor Show, will be personalised by Shakira herself, and will be given away at a draw. The prize-winner will have donated money to the charity sponsored by SEAT to help needy children in Colombia.
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Seat Altea Freetrack concept
The new Altea Freetrack is design study that highlights the direction that Seat will be taking for a new crossover vehicle based on the Altea XL. The 4WD Freetrack concept picks up an electronically controlled multidisc system from Haldex and rides on a new suspension system that sits 310mm above the ground. A production version is expected to be revealed in the following months, which is likely to feature less radical styling and a lower ride height.
The concept vehicle comes with 19in wheels shod with 255mm rubber, and a spare wheel mounted on the rear door. It has seating capacity for four passengers and a full leather lined interior. The dash layout resembles that of a production car except for the electronic screens mounted in the instrument cluster that controls the navigation, audio and air-conditioning.
Powering the new Seat Altea Freetrack is the 240hp 2.0L TFSI motor from the Leon Cupra, while a production version is expected to get several gasoline and diesel engines ranging in displacement from 1.6 to 2.0L.
This year, SEAT has once again succeeded in surprising visitors to its stand in Geneva with a concept car that showcases the look of a forthcoming road-going model: the Altea Freetrack Prototype. Far from being a mere styling exercise for the Technical Centre in Martorell, the SEAT concept car unveiled at the Swiss show gives a preview of the styling and technological innovations of the Altea Freetrack that will soon be making its debut both on our roads and off them.
The Altea Freetrack Prototype has an aggressive look which is fully in keeping with its adventurous character, along with sporty and dynamic lines, to reflect the character of the Spanish brand. Every detail of its interior exudes luxury. Thanks to both the design and materials used, the Freetrack Prototype is ready to offer passengers a first-class journey.
185 mm higher than the Altea XL, the Seat Freetrack Prototype achieves excellent figures for its angles of approach and departure and its ramp breakover angle. These features, combined with its full four-wheel-drive system, make the Freetrack Prototype a genuine off-roader, with the vehicle also incorporating a 240 hp 2.0 TFSI engine and six-speed manual gearbox. This goes to show that the Altea Freetrack Prototype does not just have sporty looks: it is an authentic sporty 4x4 in its own right.
Moving inside, the model's 2+2 layout and racing-style bucket seats immediately demand attention. In addition, there is a practical storage area situated between the rear seats.
Multi Driving Concept (MDC) has been consolidated
This prototype represents the culmination of SEAT's Multi Driving Concept (MDC) first launched four years ago with the Salsa concept car and later consolidated with the Salsa Emoción, both of which had their origins in the new generation of SEAT models. This concept promotes the traditional MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) from its predominantly family niche to the status of an all-terrain vehicle with sporty, aerodynamic lines as well as a level of interior versatility and spaciousness that satisfies all demands. This is a vehicle for non-conformists who are looking for that little bit more.
The use of the Multi Driving Concept marks out the Freetrack Prototype as a model offering the loading capacity and interior space of a family vehicle, the technology and preparation of an authentic 4x4, and the thrills and performance of a sports model.
Ready for anything
The Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype's styling takes its cue from the Altea XL. However, a raft of modifications has been incorporated to adapt the new model's performance to the terrain it will be tackling.
The principal change is a chassis with 310 mm of ground clearance. The Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype measures 1,766 mm in total, making its angles of approach and departure and its ramp breakover angle those of a true off-roader: 26 , 29 and 23 respectively.
The vehicle's width has also been increased by 60 mm, mainly to accommodate the imposing 255/50 mixed-size tyres mounted on 8J x 19 wheels.
The boldly styled oversized bull bars leave no doubt as to the robust nature of the Altea Freetrack Prototype. The same goes for the plastic side guards with aluminium inserts, which protect the body against knocks from rocks and other obstacles.
At the front end of the vehicle, there is an attention-grabbing exclusive bumper with hexagonal grille air intakes, a totally new feature in the SEAT range. The bumper itself is totally smooth with no moulding or edges, while the lower section incorporates two LED fog lights with aluminium casings. Bi-xenon headlights with AFS technology display the number 4 inside the chassis, highlighting the car's off-road character.
At the rear of the vehicle, the most eye-catching feature is the spare wheel which is fitted into the hatchback, and is covered with a plastic trim printed with a SEAT and an originally "4x4" logo. The Freetrack's boot is accessed by opening the spare aluminium wheel holder, which incorporates the model's name.
Another couple of attention-grabbing details at the back of the Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype are two triangular-shaped tailpipes integrated into the bumper. The tail lights, meanwhile, are made with transparent glass, allowing the inside to be seen. Both the tailpipes and rear lights give the model a distinctly sporty feel.
Viewed side on, the impressive 19 inch wheels, which are by no means a typical feature on this type of vehicle, really stand out. The design of the five twin-spokes shows off the Altea Freetrack Prototype's brake discs, with callipers of eight and four pistons. Another design touch worth mentioning are the plastic guards located on the lower part of the doors - and the same protection can also be found on the wheel arches. These additions give the Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype the undeniable air of a 4x4, while aluminium headlamps add a touch of elegance.
A further noteworthy element are the door mirrors, featuring integral indicator lamps as well as an absolute first for any SEAT model: their location on the doors and not on the A pillar.
The Altea Freetrack Prototype has been designed to enable customers to enjoy the great outdoors and reach areas which are out of reach for most vehicles. The model offers a stunning panoramic tinted roof, to make the most of the view, while it can also prevent too much sunlight from entering the vehicle and overheating the interior. The luggage rack, exclusive to this model, is also located on the roof. The Altea Freetrack Prototype also differs from other SEAT models in that it has no roof-mounted aerial; instead, it is integrated into the rear window.
The final feature requiring a mention - and one that cannot be missed - is the colour used for the concept car: an exclusive matt white finish which was developed exclusively for this prototype. This hue marks the Freetrack out as having a positive, open character with an affinity for nature. However, at the same time it still has an aura of sportiness that is inherent to this colour.
The excitement of a real adventure
It is quite evident that the SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype is a fully-fledged all-terrain vehicle. However, the robustness of the vehicle's drivetrain and its exterior is in stark contrast to an interior that has been styled to ensure maximum enjoyment of all the vehicle's features. Enjoy the great outdoors and a sense of adventure without having to compromise on comfort in any way.
The two-tone brown and white leather upholstery produces a level of elegance and brightness inside the car which is further emphasised by the aforementioned panoramic roof. The robust feel of its exterior is mirrored in the interior by individual bucket seats which are designed to provide their occupants with an added sense of safety, thanks to their excellent hold. Furthermore, there is a storage area between the rear seats.
The 2+2 seating arrangement allows each of the passengers in the Freetrack Prototype to enjoy the pleasure of travelling in individual seats. Each seat is the personal micro-habitat of its occupant.
Special attention was devoted to the concept car's dashboard, both in terms of design and materials. The driver's section is covered in dark brown leather, while the instrument binnacle hood is white. The same hues are used on the exclusively designed steering wheel, which apart from brown and white leather, also features aluminium.
The passenger section of the dashboard has a soft, light finish, which is both pleasant to touch and pleasing on the eye, making for a top-quality interior.
The centre console really catches the eye. Two screens concentrate driving information in the upper section, including data for off-road driving, and air conditioning information in the lower section. The air diffusers are a new design, exclusive to Freetrack, and have an original vertical layout on the centre console, and a circular layout on the sides.
The instrument panel is also exclusive to this model, with two dials located on the right-hand side and a multi-function screen to the left.
Finally, the absence of a luggage tray for the boot adds to the feeling of space inside the vehicle. The boot also offers a clever solution to the problem of shifting luggage: a panel on a guiding wire holds bags in place.
Top-class engine
The Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype comes with the same power unit under its bonnet as the new León Cupra: the 240 hp 2.0 TFSI, which is perfectly equipped for whatever the journey ahead holds in store, be it over asphalt roads or dirt tracks. The 2.0 TFSI engine's power is directed to the four wheels via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control, to ensure that the tractive force is distributed permanently in a progressive and precise manner.
As such, the Seat Altea Freetrack Prototype represents the definitive solution for anyone who wishes to explore the roughest and most challenging off-road terrain with the whole family, but is also looking for a high-performance vehicle that allows them to enjoy on-road motoring to the full.
VW AG