The New Seat Exeo

The new Seat Exeo, the car with which Seat is making its way into the mid-size saloon segment, made its debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Exclusive, elegant and sporty, the Seat Exeo represents a giant leap in quality for Seat, whose aim is to explore new markets and widen its already attractive model range.

Quality and precision manufacturing processes and materials were the underlying requirements when designing and producing the Seat Exeo, resulting in an extremely dynamic, safe and lively car.

Distinctive personality

Distinctive elegant styling abounds on the new Seat Exeo. On the exterior, both the front and rear ends are clearly indicative of the Spanish brand's image - it is sporty, with fluid forms, soft curves and prominent wings that heighten the car's athletic looks. Finally, the unmistakable grille, larger on this model, and the proportion of glass to vehicle body lend an even greater sporty look to the car.

The new Exeo's assertive personality is enhanced with spectacular 19-inch alloy rims that are hard to miss, as well as the twin tailpipe at either end of the bumper.

The extraordinarily ergonomic interior is particularly comfortable. At the front of the passenger compartment the dashboard lines flow towards the door panels and the driver-facing central console, creating a visible wrap-around effect. The two-tone instrument panel's great looks are completed with dark brown wood inserts.

The colour scheme used on the interior is particularly interesting. Called "magnolia", it creates a feeling of spaciousness with light tones. The comfortable leather seats and Alcantara lining on pillars and ceiling also combine to create a harmonic feeling of fluidity, style and roominess.

The Seat Exeo also provides an extremely comfortable driving experience. The front seats have four automatic positioning memories, and the seat length offers exceptional leg support. The rear sunshade can be controlled electrically to reduce incoming glare.

On hot sunny days the contents of the Seat Exeo's glove compartment can be cooled using the automatic climatiser. Temperature remains constant for a certain time even after the engine has been turned off after parking.

The bodywork construction includes a steel monocoque structure with integrated aluminium components. The further use of high strength steel helps reduce weight on the new car, guaranteeing excellent results in both occupant and pedestrian protection. These special elements are used on both the front-end structure and the passenger compartment of the Seat Exeo.

Seat's saloon also features ample boot space, with a volume of 460 litres, while the especially generous 1,000 mm loading width between the interior extrusions allows bulky objects to be loaded with ease.

Agile, dynamic and sporty

With the arrival of the Exeo, Seat is demonstrating its efforts to create and manufacture made-to-measure vehicles. Its compact size and greater manoeuvrability provides more comfortable performance in city driving and parking. This all contributes to making Seat's new saloon car complete, with the combination of effective city driving and exceptional long distance performance.

The design of the drivetrain on the new Seat Exeo is greatly responsible for the car's extreme driving comfort. Its excellent dynamic performance is the result of the definition of the coil ratings and the shock absorbers, as well as the analysis of the suspension's elasticity and geometric behaviour.

The front suspension setup is independent multilink with a trapezoidal link at the rear. There are several light alloy elements on both shafts that also considerably reduce the unsuspended mass.

On board the Seat Exeo, the driver immediately feels the vehicle's controlled behaviour when driving to the limit, with the car's body responding succinctly to the steering wheel and minimal roll. This ride comfort stems in part from the speed-dependent Servotronic power steering, where the degree of assistance depends on the car's speed, providing the driver with greater comfort and driving quality.

Technologically advanced

Driving enjoyment is at the very heart of the Seat Exeo and, as such, several solutions have been specifically added for both driver and passengers to experience the greatest comfort while motoring.

Besides all of the elements expected on a saloon of this category, the Seat Exeo also features double-thickness door windows, which significantly reduce noise inside the car and are also a theft deterrent. It is also equipped with a tilt sensor alarm and a solar roof, which provides enough electrical power to activate the car's ventilation system (which continues to work when the engine is turned off).

Seat's new car also features sweeping Xenon Plus headlights, including daylight driving lights, providing an intensely even beam in front of the car. The dynamic turning lighting system is made up of swivelling lights that illuminate the inside of a curve when the car is travelling at a speed of at least 12 km/h.

The twin-zone automatic climate control system is equipped with an air quality sensor, which not only provides independent climate control on the driver and front passenger sides, but also detects and avoids the entry of noxious gases, maintaining a constant atmospheric air quality for all the vehicle's occupants.

The new Seat Exeo also naturally features a sophisticated navigation system with two SD ports and MP3-type audio support player.

The best safety measures

The Seat Exeo is fully equipped with the most sophisticated occupant protection measures, including two front airbags, which deploy in two stages depending on the severity of the collision, two front side airbags, two curtain-type head airbags, driver knee airbag and rear side airbags.

The car also features active front seat headrests that protect driver and passenger from whiplash caused by rear-end collisions. The passenger and rear seats are also equipped with Isofix anchoring points for child seats.

Seat's new sedan is also equipped with essential active safety elements, including ABS, TCS and ESP +, EBA and low tyre pressure warning.

More horsepower than g/km of emissions

The Seat Exeo displayed in Paris was equipped with a powerful petrol engine, the turbo-charged direct injection 200 hp 2.0 TSI. It delivers a maximum torque of 280 Nm at only 1,800 rpm, providing excellent performance. This engine's combined fuel consumption figure is 7.7 litres, and its CO2 emissions fall beneath 185 g/km.

The New Seat Altea Freetrack

The Seat Altea Freetrack was created by taking the family-oriented Seat Altea XL, and blending it with the concept of a crossover vehicle - more specifically, one designed for off-roading pleasure without sacrificing the tremendous practicality compact cars offer in more urban landscapes. As such, the Seat Altea Freetrack offers the maximum possible amount of space for both travelling with the family and enjoying the great outdoors.

Off-road looks

Based on the Altea XL, the first ever crossover vehicle to come from SEAT takes on a distinctly off-road air, including the trademark plastic guards found on all models of this genre. Far from just adding aesthetic appeal, these guards protect the body against damage when drivers venture off the beaten track.

Further distinguishing features of the Seat Altea Freetrack are new 17-inch wheels fitted with special, larger diameter tyres, plus an extra 40 millimetres of ground clearance compared with the Altea XL, further enhancing the new model's crossover capabilities.

The Seat Altea Freetrack interior is characterised by an appealing two-tone colour scheme. This combines the black that runs throughout the Altea range with a brown that is reminiscent of the type of forest track the new model is destined to tackle.

Four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive

The Seat Altea Freetrack is no pretend crossover - it comes complete with four-wheel-drive. The power in the 200 hp 2.0 TSI and the 170 hp 2.0 TDI is transmitted to all four wheels via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control to ensure that the tractive force is distributed in a progressive and precise manner. The engine 140 hp 2.0 TDI is commercialized with front-wheel drive.

Concerning the Haldex, under normal conditions drive power is directed entirely to the front wheels but, when circumstances dictate, as much as 50% can be sent to the rear axle.

The Haldex coupling is basically a multi-plate clutch system which governs the difference in rotational speed between an input and an output shaft. The shaft which leads from the gearbox serves as the input shaft, while the output shaft is connected to the rear axle via a propshaft.

The electronic control is programmed so that under normal driving conditions the Seat Altea Freetrack behaves like a conventional front-wheel-drive vehicle, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption. However, the values of multiple dynamic parameters (difference in rotational speed between the shafts, signals from the ABS/ESP sensors, torque and rev speed variables, etc.) set in progress the electronic control for the distribution of drive. So they are permanently monitored to allow the distribution of drive power to be adapted to any driving conditions, with up to 50% of total power able to be directed to the rear wheels.

In order to accommodate this four-wheel-drive system without impinging on the spaciousness of the vehicle interior, it was necessary to adapt both the rear axle and the rear axle suspension. It was also necessary to modify the fuel tank, although the capacity of 55 litres is unchanged from that of the Altea XL.

Thanks to this system of power transmission and the higher ground clearance compared with a standard Altea XL, the freetrack achieves an angle of approach of 17.6 degrees and an angle of departure of nearly 23 degrees.

New suspension

The suspension of the Seat Altea Freetrack furthermore features shock absorbers with a larger reservoir of oil than those fitted in the XL. This allows the suspension to handle more severe operating conditions without any alarming increase in temperature.

The Seat Altea Freetrack is equipped as standard with TCS traction control which intervenes in the engine management to prevent the wheels from spinning when accelerating on slippery surfaces. The latest generation of ESP (Electronic Stability Program) also makes up part of the standard specification. This teams up with the Driving Steering Recommendation (DSR) system, which detects the quality of braking at each axle and takes corrective action where required, by transmitting a small impulse to the steering wheel to keep the vehicle on the correct course. EBA (Emergency Brake Assistance) can likewise come to the driver's aid by boosting the brake pressure to system capacity during emergency braking.

Last but not least, the ESP system fitted to the Seat Altea Freetrack also incorporates the TSP Trailer Stability Program, which is specifically designed to enhance vehicle safety when towing a trailer. TSP helps to stabilise the trailer should it ever jeopardise the vehicle's safe handling as a result of, for example, adverse weather conditions, a poor road surface or emergency braking.

Engines of high-level

Three engines - two diesel and the other one petrol - which are renowned for delivering high performance. After all, the two four-wheel drive engines are the same power units encountered in, for example, the Seal Leon FR: the 170 hp 2.0 TDI and the 2.0 TSI developing 200 hp. They are followed by the 140 hp 2.0 TDI. With these engines to propel it along, the freetrack can claim to be the sportiest family crossover in its segment.

With the 170 hp 2.0 TDI unit under the bonnet, top speed is 204 km/h and the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is over in 8.7 seconds. Powered by the 2.0 TSI, meanwhile, the Seat Altea Freetrack records a top speed of 214 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. Concerning the 140 hp 2.0 TDI the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is in 10.2 seconds, the top speed is 196 km/h and the average fuel consumption is 6.1 l/100 km.

Maximised space

Despite all of its performance credentials, the Seat Altea Freetrack maintains the outstanding levels of spaciousness and cargo volume associated with the Altea XL. With its 593 litres of boot capacity, the freetrack offers enough room for everything the whole family needs to enjoy their leisure time to the full. Furthermore, load capacity can be increased again to 1,562 litres by folding the rear bench seat flat.

One of the fortes of the Seat Altea Freetrack interior is its tremendous practicality and functionality. For example, SEAT is premiering handy overhead storage spaces in its new model which run lengthways and also house the 7-inch TFT screen (as standard equipment with 4WD, optional with 2WD).

Window blinds in the rear, with a facility that allows them to be stored within the doors when not in use, are also included as standard. Another feature included as standard, and bound to be appreciated by families with pets, is the partition net. This net separates the passenger compartment from the luggage compartment and can easily be removed whenever it is not required.

Multimedia system as standard with the four-wheel drive

Apart from its roomy interior, one of the strongest selling points of the Seat Altea Freetrack in its capacity as a family car is the inclusion of a new multimedia system like in the Seat Altea and Altea XL as standard equipment with 4WD (optional with 2WD). This system comprises a 7 inch TFT screen housed in the vehicle's roof, along with an RCA connector for linking up a DVD player, games console, laptop or even an MP3 player, as the sound from the connected source is played through the vehicle's own audio system.

Other items which can be found in the Seat Altea Freetrack as standard include twin-zone climate control, automatic headlight activation and rain sensor, parking sensor, cruise control, trip computer, as well as a radio/CD system with MP3 and steering-wheel audio controls. On the safety front, meanwhile, the ESP electronic stability program, six airbags, electromechanical power steering (EPS) and a tyre pressure warning lamp are just some of the features that come as standard.

Yet another less usual feature included as standard in the Seat Altea Freetrack are the electrical pre-fittings for a trailer hitch. These pre-fittings include a connection for the TSP system that combines with the ESP to help stabilise the trailer.

Customers can also choose optional extras for the Seat Altea Freetrack like dynamic navigation system with 6.5" colour screen, Bluetooth telephone preparation, AFS bi-xenon directional headlights or side airbags in the rear for example.

The New Seat Leon Cupra

The new Seat Leon Cupra is hitting the roads - a vehicle in which SEAT has implemented all of the knowledge gained during the current successful World Touring Car Championship season; the Spanish make is, in fact, one of the favourites for the WTCC constructors and drivers championship. For SEAT, whose goal is to create sporty cars with cutting-edge design and the latest technology, the arrival of the new Seat Leon Cupra is not just a source of satisfaction and pride; it is also essential.

The new Cupra is also a record-breaking car: it is the most powerful SEAT passenger car to date. With 240 hp, the new model sits at the top of SEAT's sporty range. The Seat Leon Cupra's advanced engineering, allied to its agile chassis, looks set to create a stir in the increasingly competitive hot hatch market.

Winning looks

One outstanding feature of the Cupra series has been its powerful and aggressive styling compared with the rest of the range. This is also the case for the new Seat Leon Cupra.

From the outside, the Seat Leon Cupra demands attention. Its exclusive front bumper has larger air intakes than usual in order to enable sufficient airflow to cool the 240 hp engine, which purrs away under the chiselled bonnet.

An outstanding feature at the rear of the car is the lower section's black finish, which emulates the Leon WTCC's diffusers. Another unique Cupra feature is the polished steel oval exhaust pipe. The word "CUPRA", which appears below the rear logo, marks out the new model from other versions. In profile, the Cupra's most striking feature is its stunning, exclusively designed 7.5J x 18" wheels, as well as the 'ébano' black door mirrors.

But to really appreciate the feeling of being in a true sports car, you actually need to step into the new Cupra. The ultra-sporty seats are the first feature which catches the eye. In fact, the Cupra's seats are so focussed that they could genuinely be racing car seats. They surround the body and include an integrated head restraint.

The second feature that sets the Cupra apart from other versions of the Leon is its black interior. The car's pillars and roof are black instead of the usual cream-grey combination. The Cupra's interior colour scheme perfectly sets off its key features: the striking leather perforated steering wheel against a red background, the gear stick, the white instrument panel and the sporty metal pedals. Each and every one of these parts bears the unmistakable Cupra logo.

A racing car at heart

Now let's turn to the Seat Leon Cupra's key feature, the reason why customers will go for this model over any other: its spectacular 2.0 TFSI 240 hp engine. This is the most powerful engine ever installed in a SEAT production car.

With this engine, the Seat Leon Cupra achieves performance worthy of a WTCC track car with a top speed of 247 km/h, or 153 mph. The Cupra accelerates from 0 to 100 in only 6.4 seconds. Furthermore, it covers the first 1000 metres in only 26.4 seconds. In terms of in-gear acceleration, the Seat Leon Cupra goes from 80 km/h to 120 km/h in fifth gear in 6.4 seconds. In sixth gear, this takes 8.2 seconds.

Even though the car's performance is highly sporty, it is also capable of returning impressive fuel consumption, with an average of only 8.6 litres per 100 km (around 32.8 mpg). (Performances and consumption provisional).

A racing chassis

In order to successfully transfer all of the engine's power to the road, the suspension elements of the Leon's proven and effective agile chassis have been adapted, while its weight has been reduced. The power steering system has also been modified in order to give the Cupra an even sharper feel compared with other Leons. These changes provide the highest levels of driving precision, as expected from the most focussed and sporty model in the SEAT range.

The Cupra's high performance capabilities require brakes that are equally impressive - and the new model delivers, with a powerful system featuring striking red-painted callipers. The front ventilated discs are sized at 345x30 mm, which is larger than those used on the rest of the range. And if that was not enough, the Cupra can also be fitted with an even more capable Brembo brake system as an option. This four-piston system offers enhanced stopping performance and improved resistance to high temperatures.

Circuit sound

Another Seat Leon Cupra feature worked on by SEAT is the all-important soundtrack from the engine bay. New SEAT SOUND exhaust systems have been developed so that drivers can really experience the sporty nature of the Cupra. These systems boost the richness of the engine sound and the feeling of power at low revs, and can be experienced both outside and inside the car.

The feeling of sporty acoustics and sheer engine power is accentuated when moving off from a standing start, performing low-speed manoeuvres, accelerating and braking at full speed and at low revs.

The New Seat Ibiza

The covers come off the most important new model in Spanish car maker SEAT's recent history with the unveiling of the all-new Seat Ibiza five-door supermini.

The newcomer's dramatic debut, at the firm's Martorell HQ near Barcelona, marks the start of a major product offensive from the ambitious Spanish brand which will, over the coming months, also see the debut of further Seat Ibiza variants, as well as striking new saloon and estate contenders in the upper medium segment.

All-new from the wheels up, and designed to reinforce SEAT's position as a leader in the supermini sector, the bigger, better new Seat Ibiza five-door has a range of 'big car' features to match its sharp styling.

The work of renowned ex-Lamborghini stylist Luc Donckerwolke, the new car offers a variety of class-leading options such as the availability of a new seven-speed DSG automatic/sequential manual gearbox, Hill Hold Assist, front fog lights with side illumination (cornering) function and combined AUX-IN/USB connectivity for all manner of music devices.

Longer than the current model - the new Seat Ibiza breasts the tape at 4.05 m, versus the existing car's 3.97 m - it's markedly more capacious, too, with improved rear seat legroom and a significantly larger and more practical boot space which, at 292 litres with rear seats in place, is comfortably the largest in the supermini class.

Sitting on a new version of the renowned Seat Ibiza 'Agile Chassis', with wider front and rear tracks (30 mm and 33 mm respectively) the new car looks and feels even more 'planted', and delivers both a composed ride and class-leading, sporty handling.

Debuting with a range of potent, proven powerplants, the Seat Ibiza five-door promises both strong performance and outstanding economy. Beneath the bonnet, this front-wheel drive motor will initially offer three petrol engine options: either a characterful 1.2-litre three cylinder 70 PS; flexible 1.4-litre 85 PS four cylinder or sporty 1.6-litre four cylinder 102 PS.

All three come mated as standard to a sweet-shifting five-speed manual gearbox, and all have undergone engineering modifications to ensure emissions fall comfortably below 160 g/km.

SEAT's success in offering sporty yet frugal diesel cars naturally means a raft of sophisticated direct-injection TDI Seat Ibiza five-doors will debut in due course, too.

Safety and security have both been key considerations in the development of the new car, with the likes of new head and thorax-focused front side airbags, and the extensive availability of ESP and TCS.

Welcoming the unveiling of the new car, Head of SEAT UK Peter Wyhinny said: 'The debut of the spectacular new Seat Ibiza is the clearest sign yet that SEAT is serious about putting enviable quality and state-of-the-art technology alongside sporting 'auto emoción' as the cornerstones of the Brand.

'With the debut of this distinctive and clearly design-led five-door we are embarking on a major development of the SEAT range, with plenty more to come in the months ahead!'

Seat Bocanegra concept

SEAT SPORTCOUPÉ ‘BOCANEGRA’

An exciting new chapter for SEAT

• Exhilarating concept offers clues to the design of a key future model from SEAT
• Crisp SportCoupé lines with a distinctly dynamic and eye-catching front end
• Clear emphasis on top notch quality and exciting innovation

At the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, SEAT will unveil the prototype SportCoupé “Bocanegra”, a model which brims with character and sporting style from nose to tail. For the Spanish brand it marks the start of a product initiative extending over the next few years, which will include the important launch of the new-generation Ibiza as well as a new ‘B-segment’ saloon car, due to make its public debut in 2009.

Capable of conveying intense emotions at first glance, the ‘Bocanegra’ follows the aesthetic and practical vision of car design as practised by Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Designer at SEAT.

Using the very latest technology at the recently inaugurated SEAT Design Centre in Martorell, SEAT’s designers and engineers have produced a vehicle that is a perfect blend of sportiness, emotion and efficiency. The SportCoupé, with its ultra-modern, striking styling, showcases a host of intriguing features both inside and outside.

Captivating design

The eye is instantly drawn to the spectacular front end that gives the model its name – ‘Bocanegra’ – which literally means ‘black mouth’. The top half is capped by a stunning, dark Perspex finish from which only the headlight units, with their state-of-the-art LED technology, peer out.

The two-door body boasts a clear coupé-like silhouette that is given added emphasis by the semi-transparent black front end. Indeed, SEAT aficionados may even spot that this car recalls distant memories of the launch of the original ‘Bocanegra’, the legendary SEAT SportCoupé.

The appealing effect produced with the front headlights is complemented by the outline encircling the brand’s insignia, which itself sports a new look. Instead of the chromed brand symbol the classic ‘S’ appears in black, silhouetted by a chromed line. Its depth, which makes it appear more three-dimensional, and its black finish are elements that stand out as a clear demonstration of the significant advance in quality already achieved by SEAT.

Another eye-catching feature in the same area is the front bumper styling: its overall appearance is akin to that of a mask in that it only accentuates the expressiveness and sporty nature that will be at the very essence of the Spanish brand’s upcoming generation of models, due to begin arriving on the market shortly.

Compact coupé body

The ‘Bocanegra’ also makes its mark with its tight-fitting exterior comprising a low roofline and still-compact four-metre length. This allows a perfect synthesis of a powerful, sporty character on the one hand and, on the other, the functionality, roominess and exemplary safety required for catering to practically all needs. The ability to move nimbly through city traffic comes guaranteed, while the track width and wheelbase promise swift, comfortable progress outside the city limits.

Moving upwards, yet another highlight of the ‘Bocanegra’s’ exciting exterior design is a vast panoramic sunroof that allows light to flood into the passenger compartment. Sporting a finish that matches the dark Perspex front end, it naturally harmonises the exterior colours for a consistent, dramatic, look.

The high-level side indicator repeaters incorporated into the door mirrors form an additional striking feature. The mirrors, in turn, inject an added touch of dynamism by being attached below the window line of the new SEAT SportCoupé. This elegant design trait, with a slender arm connecting the mirror housing to the door, creates a truly dashing look.

Seen side on, it is the stunning 19” alloy wheels – shod with ultra-sporty low-profile 235/35 tyres – that first grab the attention. This is an unmistakable declaration of intent by a car calculated to look as sporty as it feels.

Evolution of the ‘dynamic line’

The taut surfaces of the vehicle’s flanks comprise three distinctive characteristics which give the new prototype’s sporty character added impact and represent a key evolution of the Spanish brand’s trademark ‘dynamic line’. Originating from the front end and following the bonnet line down to the centre of the door, the first line is virtually mirrored by another that descends from the rear end’s powerful ‘shoulders’ to the centre of the door. Both are underscored by a third line which bridges the divide between the two wheel arches. The purpose, again, is to clearly evoke the new sense of automotive style which SEAT now conveys.

Meanwhile, at the back of the car, it is the expressive, robust looks generated by very boldly contoured shoulders that stand out. Also housing the tail light units, these rear shoulders indisputably bestow a more potent image.

Adorning the centre of the hatch is, once again, the brand insignia which, like its counterpart at the front, sports an all-new black look with a chrome outline and doubles as the handle for opening the luggage compartment. Proudly displayed across the centre of the hatch, below the insignia, is the prototype’s historic name: ‘Bocanegra’.

Lower down, these elements give way to a sporty exhaust integrated into the centre of the rear bumper, flanked by characterful, mesh-style wings.

To round off the exterior, special mention must also be given to the dramatic, innovative LED light units which are perfectly in keeping with the vehicle’s innovative design. Masked by dark Perspex at the front, and incorporated into those particularly pronounced shoulders at the rear, the LEDs form perfect design highlights in the undeniably sporty ‘Bocanegra’.

An avant-garde interior

Inside, SEAT’s dramatic concept car is an impressive fusion of exciting design and extraordinarily high quality. It is an area in which the SEAT design team has taken meticulous care, right down to the finest detail.

One of the principal objectives for the interior styling was to produce a space offering functional, practical elements together with flawless quality, and this has been achieved in every respect.

The interior of the ‘Bocanegra’ is distinguished by an impressive variety of tones and textures. Its front end is dominated by the dashboard with its sporty, light styling. Minute attention to detail is the key, and the centre console, where the climate control can be found, is testimony to this.

Elsewhere inside, the height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel in the ‘Bocanegra’ is not perfectly spherical; it has a sporty triple-spoke design and two flattened sections on either side that make it easier to grip. Naturally, it bears the brand insignia in the centre, and also incorporates paddles for operating the seven-speed DSG gearbox and controls for activating the various functions needed to operate external devices connected to the vehicle via Bluetooth.

As expected, the instrument cluster stays true to the brand’s sporty styling. Positioned between the two new-look dials is a hi-tech central screen that functions as a telephone display. Phone and other functions are accessed using the steering wheel controls, thereby maximising the connectivity between vehicle, driver and other peripheral devices such as telephones.

Each dial is made up of three concentric rings with needles pointing to the 6 o'clock position. Both incorporate the indicator signal in the centre, with the right-hand dial including various other telltale lamps for the vehicle's functions.

The rings are made of transparent material, the first featuring a large scale and the second showing much more precise readings for the rev counter and the speedometer, which both feature white backlighting. Concluding the tour of the driver's cockpit in the “Bocanegra” are sports pedals with metal plates.

The design of elements such as the armrest, the zone around the central tunnel and the seats has a very light feel to it thanks to the inclusion of leather and semi-transparent Perspex trim. The door trim panel replicates the concept of the dashboard, deftly combining metallic mesh sections with the colour scheme that runs throughout the vehicle.

The “Bocanegra” is fitted with well-designed and attractively styled bucket seats, which offer optimum support for the occupants out on the road. A brown leather strip runs the length of the seat's outer perimeter, giving it a unique surface finish. The headrest is integrated into the top section of the seat as a floating element with a zone for communicating between the front and rear.

The interior seat sections are upholstered in quilted black leather, reminiscent of that used in classic sports cars, while the side bolster cushions are trimmed in brown leather to coordinate perfectly with the interior colours.

Efficient TSI twin-turbo engine

Under the bonnet of this exciting prototype lies a powerful and economical 1.4 twin-turbo engine with TSI technology, which is partnered with a seven-speed DSG gearbox. This marks a first for SEAT, which has never before produced a model combining the 1.4 TSI twin-turbo engine and the seven-speed DSG gearbox with steering wheel paddles.

Coupling this highly efficient 1.4 TSI twin-turbo power unit to the speed and sportiness of the DSG transmission promises a thoroughly enjoyable drive for enthusiast and everyday motorist alike. Add to this the option of operating the gearshift by means of the paddles on the steering wheel and the sublime stability and precision of SEAT’s signature ‘Agile Chassis’, and drivers are able to enjoy sporty motoring at its very finest.

The 1.4 TSI twin-turbo unit in the ‘SportCoupé’ also promises modest CO2 emissions thanks to its small displacement. Thus the ‘Bocanegra’ upholds the brand’s pledge to reduce CO2 emissions of all its engine variants. Clearly, this promise is already being delivered with the launch of ECOMOTIVE versions of the Ibiza and León.

At the same time, the new vehicle's considerable track width enhances stability when driving at speed, as well as the dynamic handling characteristics when travelling by motorway.

Dynamic and enterprising in nature, the ‘Bocanegra’ has, then, been created to stir the emotions of those who relish sporty driving allied to a unique style and personality. By so doing, it stays true to the values of a brand that endeavours to produce models which distinguish themselves through innovative design, sporty character and exceptional quality and value.

Limited edition for Seat Leon

Fresh for the imminent ‘08’ plate change SEAT is giving its most potent road-going model – the muscular Leon Cupra – the option of an even more sporty look courtesy of a dramatic limited edition styling kit version.

The impressive additions to the Leon’s already lithe lines give the 240 PS, turbocharged 2.0-litre Cupra even more of the look of the race-winning SEAT Sport BTCC car, which is set to compete for top honours again this year.

Boasting a bespoke K¹ boot badge, the limited edition car’s comprehensive styling additions include extensively re-worked front and rear bumpers, smart side skirts, a more pronounced tailgate spoiler and unique chrome-tipped, centrally-mounted, oval exhaust.

The car’s enhancements come in a range of eye-catching colours: Inferi Black, Emocion Red, Luna Grey and Candy White, and it is available to order now through the SEAT UK dealer network.

Great value at just £1,000 RRP over the standard Cupra, the K¹ additions arrive at the same time as a change to the Leon range-topper’s equipment manifest. Powerful Bi-xenon headlights, complete with AFS dynamic bend lighting that follows the turn of the steering wheel to help ensure the beam is always pointing precisely where the car’s headed, are now a £870 option.

At the same time new, optional, 18” Orion alloy wheels in black or white are made available at £205 RRP.

The best news for Cupra fans, though, is that the standard car’s price has been trimmed, from £19,695 RRP to £19,495 RRP, to make the 153 mph flier even easier on the pocket. The body kitted K¹ therefore costs £20,495 RRP.

SEAT UK’s Head of Marketing, Steve Robertson, said of the Cupra changes: ‘The K¹ styling kit gives the car even more road presence, and clearly recalls the look of our super-quick BTCC competitor.

‘Together with the optional black or white Orion alloy wheels, it ensures the Cupra has an outstanding look to match its outstanding performance.’

The new Seat Leon

NEW SEAT LEÓN ECOMOTIVE
Sporty nature that also cares for the environment
• Only 119 g/km of CO2 emissions
• 100 km at 3.9 litres of fuel consumption
• Efficient 105 hp 1.9 TDI engine with DPF particulate filter
SEAT has demonstrated how it is possible to combine the sporty character of its models with its concern for preserving the environment. At the last Frankfurt Motor Show, SEAT unveiled the Ibiza ECOMOTIVE, whose CO2 emission figure of 99 g/km made it the least polluting model in its segment.
SEAT has now gone one step further with the development of an ECOMOTIVE version for the León. With its emissions reduced by 16 g/km, or from 135 to 119, this model can take advantage of tax benefits in many European countries. In Spain for example, a person buying the León ECOMOTIVE is not required to pay any registration tax.

Making the car more ecological did not require modifying its outward appearance. The only difference on the new car is the "ECOMOTIVE" badge on the rear, which identifies it and the Ibiza as SEAT's greenest versions with the lowest CO2 emission levels.

Not only does the car feature low emission levels and tax benefits, but also reduced fuel consumption figures, making it an economical choice for customers within the León range.
From the León to the León ECOMOTIVE
In order to reduce the CO2 emissions of the León, engineers at the Technical Centre worked on four fundamental areas: the engine, the gearbox, the weight and the tyres.
105 hp 1.9 TDI engine with particulate filter

The León ECOMOTIVE is equipped with one of the SEAT range's most efficient engines - the 105 hp 1.9 TDI, which has undergone extensive improvements to its electronic management. Optimisation work on the central control unit and the gearbox's new ratios reduced CO2 emissions to 119 g/km compared with the 135 of the basic version.

Regarding the engine, the León ECOMOTIVE has been fitted with a DPF particulate filter as standard equipment, filtering the typical (but small amount of) soot particles that most diesel engines produce. When left unfiltered, these particles remain in suspension and attract other harmful elements. Approximately 0.3% of diesel engine emissions are made up of gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, sulphur dioxide, and nitric acids as well as soot.

The engine's control unit constantly checks the state of the filter, and activates regeneration in order to burn up the accumulated soot particles. In other words, thanks to this system the particulate filter requires no maintenance during the car's lifetime.

The new León ECOMOTIVE features outstandingly low fuel consumption figures, with a reduction of 0.6 l/100 km on the extra-urban cycle. These new figures make it possible to drive the León ECOMOTIVE for almost 1,500 km without refuelling.

New gear ratios
The Martorell Technical Centre also modified the car's gear ratios in order to deliver lower CO2 emission figures.
The new gears are 8.2% longer overall. By maintaining the first and second gear ratios and lengthening third, fourth and fifth - the latter by 16% - compared with the former version, emissions on the León ECOMOTIVE have been further reduced by 7 g/km.
Nevertheless, these modifications do not hamper engine performance at all. With its engine torque of 250 Nm at 1,900 rpm, the 1.9 TDI still delivers excellent in-gear acceleration and top speed. Furthermore, the new model's dynamic capability has even been improved, giving 1 km/h faster top speed, while 0 to 100 km/h acceleration is 0.4 seconds and 0 to 1,000 metre acceleration is 0.6 seconds faster - or 186 km/h, 10.9 seconds and 32.6 seconds respectively.

Limited maximum weight
On a car such as the León, with its high standards of safety and comfort, it is difficult to reduce the vehicle's minimum weight. But the maximum weight can be limited by eliminating certain options, such as the 17 inch alloy wheels and combinations of equipment if this exceeds the maximum weight of 1,320 kg compared to the current 1,405. This considerable difference has been achieved not only by working on the basic car itself, but by taking a close look at the additional optional equipment in order to keep the car within the desired weight range.

Lower resistance tyres
Another feature of the León ECOMOTIVE is lower resistance tyres, making it possible to mount 195/65 tyres on 15 inch wheels or 205/55 tyres on 16 inch wheels.

Available with Reference and Stylance equipment
The León ECOMOTIVE will be available with two trim levels. The Reference version features ABS and TCS, double front airbag, side airbags, head airbag, 16 inch steel wheels, 205/55 tyres, Isofix anchoring points, front electric one-touch and anti-trap windows, heated electric body colour door mirrors, air conditioning, CD radio with MP3 and Aux-in and six speakers, among others.

The Stylance version has volumetric alarm, ESP with EBA emergency brake assistance, tyre pressure sensor, 16 inch seven spoke alloy wheels, foglamps, dual zone climatiser, rear power windows, door mirrors with electric park position, leather steering wheel with audio controls, leather gear knob, cruise control, trip computer, coming and leaving home function and two extra speakers.
The special Sport Limited version builds on Reference with sport seats, leather steering wheel, 16 inch alloy wheels, foglamps and black door handles.