It’s time to move on for automotive designer Luc Donckerwolke who will leave his position as Director of Design at Seat to become the VW Group’s Head of Advanced Design starting on August 1, 2011. In his new role, Donckerwolke will report directly to Design Chief, Walter de Silva. The 46-year-old Belgian designer will be replaced at Seat by Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos. Read more »
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Luc Donckerwolke to Head VW Group’s Advance Design Division
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UK Insurer Parts the Most Unreliable and Costly Car to Fix
In an article on a BMW-faced Honda Accord we found for sale on Craigslist back in 2008, we wrote that in a perfect world, our ultimate car would be “designed by Italians, engineered by Germans, built by Japanese and marketed by Americans”.
So, what’s the worst car one could imagine? Well, if we played around with the above statements, we’d say one designed by Japanese, engineered by Americans, built by Italians and marketed by Germans.
But UK insurance firm Warranty Direct had something a little bit different in mind. Instead of playing the origin card, the company decided to check out its database of 50,000 live policies on cars aged five years on average to part the UK’s most unreliable vehicle that would break down every other month and cost an average of £2,050 (equal to US$3,270 - €2,330) to fix each year.
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SCOOP: Seat Caught Testing Sportier Ibiza ST FR with 150HP
For being Volkswagen’s answer to Alfa Romeo (in theory at least), the Germans are sure taking their time to enhance Seat’s lineup with the most potent engines currently available in the group.
Take the Ibiza Sports Tourer (ST) for instance. In Germany, the small station wagon is offered with three petrol units: a 70HP 1.2-liter three-pot, an 85HP 1.4L and a 105HP 1.2-liter TSI, and three diesels: a 75HP 1.2 TDI, a 90HP 1.6 TDI and a 105HP 1.6 TDI.
But better late than never as Seat is preparing an FR version of the Ibiza ST fitted with the same 1.4-liter TSI turbocharged petrol engine with 150-horsepower found in the hatchback model.
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You Can’t Touch This: Boy Racer in Citroen Saxo has Cops Running in Circles
A rather foxy yet clearly irresponsible teenage driver of a Citroen Saxo had British police running in circles –literally- in a chase that took place at the Hams Hall industrial estate near Coleshill, England, last month during a police crackdown on what they call illegal car cruise events.
One of the spectators who had stopped on the side of the road to enjoy the chase filmed the young man’s shenanigans and uploaded the video on Youtube for all to see.
It all started when an unmarked Seat Leon hatchback pursued the driver of the silver Saxo who managed to escape by speeding up, down and even in…reverse on the busy highway.
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Report: Seat to Launch Four New Models in 2012 including a Four-Door Sedan
VW's Spanish subsidiary is expecting a 10 percent rise in sales this year and aims further growth in 2012, when it will launch four new models. According to CEO James Muir, new products such as the Ibiza ST and the Alhambra will boost Seat sales in 2011.
"We want to increase our 340,000 unit sales from last year – by 8 to 10 percent – thanks to existing models. We aim to sell 45,000 units of the Ibiza ST (station wagon) this year. And the Alhambra already is well above plan so we expect a full-year volume of 20,000 units. This proves that our brand is gaining strength," Muir was quoted as saying by Autonews Europe.
For 2012, the company has even bigger plans, fueled by the launch of four new models. "We will launch four new cars: the new Leon, a totally new entry-level model, a four-door sedan and a major Ibiza facelift," said Muir, who was appointed head of Seat in 2009.
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Geneva Preshow: Seat IBX Small Crossover Study Hints at Production Model
This is the new Seat IBX, a concept study for a three-door small crossover that will be officially unwrapped at the Geneva Motor Show this week. The IBX appears to be a follow up on Seat's 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show Tribu concept, which never managed to reach production. This time, however, the Spanish subsidiary of the VW Group says the IBX demonstrates "a possible expansion of the SEAT product portfolio".
Like the Tribu, the IBX has also been penned by Seat's Chief Designer of former Lamborghini fame, Luc Donckerwolke. “The IBX was created from the gene pool of our next vehicle generation. This design DNA will have a profound impact on every one of our models,” said Donckerwolke. “And, with this urban sports utility vehicle, we are proving that with our design, our sporty pedigree and our youthful character, we can also create a vehicle concept that is unique among SUVs.”
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Geneva Preshow: Seat IBX Small Crossover Study Hints at Production Model
This is the new Seat IBX, a concept study for a three-door small crossover that will be officially unwrapped at the Geneva Motor Show this week. The IBX appears to be a follow up on Seat's 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show Tribu concept, which never managed to reach production. This time, however, the Spanish subsidiary of the VW Group says the IBX demonstrates "a possible expansion of the SEAT product portfolio".
Like the Tribu, the IBX has also been penned by Seat's Chief Designer of former Lamborghini fame, Luc Donckerwolke. “The IBX was created from the gene pool of our next vehicle generation. This design DNA will have a profound impact on every one of our models,” said Donckerwolke. “And, with this urban sports utility vehicle, we are proving that with our design, our sporty pedigree and our youthful character, we can also create a vehicle concept that is unique among SUVs.”
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2010 JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR
JE DESIGN has launched their Seat Leon FR program which brings both performance and styling upgrades. For the petrol version, the TFSI engine of the JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR has been tuned to output 270 hp (199 kW) 355 Nm of torque. The extra juice of the 2010 JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR comes from a re-programmed ECU. The extra horses enable the car to get from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The price for this upgrade is 1499 Euros.
The TDI diesel version of the 2010 JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR develops 204 hp (150 kW) and 380 Nm of torque thanks to a re-mapped ECU. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint time drops to 7.6 seconds. The price for the diesel JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR upgrade is 1339 Euros.
The JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR also comes with a new aerodynamics package which includes a new front spoiler with a double lip, side skirts, a rear skirt attachment and a rear diffuser. The JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR features wing-doors, a new exhaust muffler system and 19inch wheels.
The JE DESIGN Seat Leon FR program also includes a new suspension which lowers the ride height by 35 millimeters.
JE DESIGN Press Release:
At Seat, FR stands for Formula Racing. But that was not exciting enough for the JE DESIGN engineers. They turned the new Seat Leon FR into a real sports car which has significantly gained power and also shows it.
The Seat two-liter petrol engine produces 211 hp (155 kW) in the serial model. Due to an optimisation of the control unit, JE DESIGN increases the performance of the TFSI-engine by a good quarter to 270 hp (199 kW). The maximum torque leaps from 280 to 355 Newton metres.
Instead of 7.1 seconds, the JE DESIGN-Leon reaches the 100 kph barrier in already 6.2 seconds. JE DESIGN offers the performance enhancement for 1499 Euros including VAT, assembly and a one-year warranty.
Also the Diesel engine becomes brawnier after JE DESIGN engineers put the finishing touches on their work. The additional electronics Can-Tronic boosts the two-litre TDI from 170 hp (125 kW) to 204 hp (150 kW) and the maximum torque from 350 to 380 Newton metres. Therefore the sprint from 0 to 100 kph is reduced from 8.2 to 7.6 seconds. The price is 1339 Euros and also includes VAT, assembly and warranty.
The Leon FR by JE DESIGN proudly presents this newly acquired power with bold headlight blends (89 Euros), LED daytime running lights (299 Euros) and its aerodynamics pack. The front spoiler with the double lip (279 Euros) draws the vehicle to the road. The side skirts (299 Euros) calm down the air flow which derives from the new rear skirt attachment (299 Euros) and the centre diffuser attachment (99 Euros) at the rear. There, the end muffler with its mighty four-pipe system (899 Euros) unmistakably confirms that this is no serial Seat.
By lowering the vehicle, the car receives a sportier look and a better handling at the same time. Owing to the lowering springs (159 Euros), the Seat is 35 millimetres closer to the road. With the coilover suspension (979 Euros), an individual lowering from 15 to 40 millimetres can be achieved. Therefore, the new 19-inch wheels look especially impressive. The elegant and dynamic design of the Multispoke wheels glows in black and has a polished rim bead. Sport wheels measuring 225/35R 19 ensure a safe contact to the road (entire wheel set for 2930 Euros).
The most significant difference between the JE DESIGN Leon and its serial counterpart shows as soon as the driver opens the doors. The wing door hinges (1499 Euros) first open the doors outwards before they safely glide upwards.
And as if the refinement of the engine and the exterior were not impressive enough, JE DESIGN additionally enhances the interior. Seats, door linings and the centre armrest are all wrapped in noble leather (1599 Euros). Thereby, the colour combination between leather and stitches can be chosen without any additional charges. A two-stage seat heating (379 Euros) is offered as well as an adjustable lordosis support (319 Euros). But the highlight of the interior refinement is not visible: the driver and the passengers can indulge in the luxury of the massage system in the seats which offers twelve programmes (429 Euros). Moreover, the refiner offers to embroider a logo into the back rests (79 Euros) according to the wishes of the customer.
Moreover, the refining experts from Leingarten also offer noble leather for the steering wheel (399 Euros), the gear shift skirt and the hand brake cuff (together for 179 Euros).
With the Leon FR, JE DESIGN once again confirms its competence in refining Seat automobiles. With the performance enhancement, the entire aerodynamics pack and a keen eye for details, the engineers developed a dynamic and overall harmonious automobile.
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Seat Altea XL
Seat Altea XL
The complete launch offer of the SEAT Altea and SEAT Altea XL 2009 range includes 35 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices - five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels - Reference, Style and Sport. The offer is complete with a new entry-level version and the SEAT Altea Freetrack model, which is available with either two or four-wheel drive and the Sport trim level.
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the SEAT Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the SEAT Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial, sliding rear seats, storage compartments on the sides of the front and rear seats, central console storage compartment, storage hooks on the boot sides and rear parcel shelf with storage compartments, among others.
As with the SEAT León, the SEAT Altea range continues with the Reference version, which builds on the entry-level version with trip computer, CD radio + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in, low tyre pressure warning, air conditioning, body colour door mirrors and handles, front active headrests (on the SEAT Altea XL) and rear door folding shades (also on the SEAT Altea XL).
Style builds on Reference with several more elements, such as cornering foglights, three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, leather gearknob, rear power windows, electric heated folding door mirrors, cruise control, Coming Home, chrome inside door handles, climate control, combined USB + Aux in connection, height adjustable driver and passenger seat with lumbar control, 16" 'Enea' alloy rims, 205/55 tyres and visible twin tailpipe on versions with 140 hp or higher engines.
The top of the new SEAT Altea 2009 range is finished in Sport trim, which builds on Style with dark glass, sport seats with specific upholstery, 17" 'Aroa' alloy rims, 225/45 tyres and sports suspension.
Complete list of optional elements
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range features a long list of optional elements that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.
The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering foglights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.
As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes dual xenon headlights + AFS, the SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This package is exclusively associated to the Technology package.
The Style trim level is available with the Sport and Sport Plus packages, which include alloy rims (17 inch with the Sport package and 18 inch with the Sport Plus package), specific upholstery, sports suspension, sport seats and dark glass. The Sport Plus package is also available on the Sport trim level, but with 18 inch rims as standard equipment.
The new SEAT Altea XL 2009 is available with an exclusive Family package, which provides onboard comfort and entertainment with the addition of ceiling storage with a 7 inch TFT screen and RCA connectors, dark glass and the Technology package.
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the SEAT Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the SEAT Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial, sliding rear seats, storage compartments on the sides of the front and rear seats, central console storage compartment, storage hooks on the boot sides and rear parcel shelf with storage compartments, among others.
As with the SEAT León, the SEAT Altea range continues with the Reference version, which builds on the entry-level version with trip computer, CD radio + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in, low tyre pressure warning, air conditioning, body colour door mirrors and handles, front active headrests (on the SEAT Altea XL) and rear door folding shades (also on the SEAT Altea XL).
Style builds on Reference with several more elements, such as cornering foglights, three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, leather gearknob, rear power windows, electric heated folding door mirrors, cruise control, Coming Home, chrome inside door handles, climate control, combined USB + Aux in connection, height adjustable driver and passenger seat with lumbar control, 16" 'Enea' alloy rims, 205/55 tyres and visible twin tailpipe on versions with 140 hp or higher engines.
The top of the new SEAT Altea 2009 range is finished in Sport trim, which builds on Style with dark glass, sport seats with specific upholstery, 17" 'Aroa' alloy rims, 225/45 tyres and sports suspension.
Complete list of optional elements
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range features a long list of optional elements that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.
The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering foglights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.
As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes dual xenon headlights + AFS, the SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This package is exclusively associated to the Technology package.
The Style trim level is available with the Sport and Sport Plus packages, which include alloy rims (17 inch with the Sport package and 18 inch with the Sport Plus package), specific upholstery, sports suspension, sport seats and dark glass. The Sport Plus package is also available on the Sport trim level, but with 18 inch rims as standard equipment.
The new SEAT Altea XL 2009 is available with an exclusive Family package, which provides onboard comfort and entertainment with the addition of ceiling storage with a 7 inch TFT screen and RCA connectors, dark glass and the Technology package.
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Seat Formula Concept
Seat Formula Concept
Seat Formula Concept was presented at the 69th Geneva Motor Show in 1999. It was a two-seater sports car with featured a removable roof and was powered by a mid-mounted turbocharged 2-liter engine developing 240 hp. The semi-automatic six-speed gearbox came with two paddles on the steering wheel for faster gear changes and a traditional stick-shift as well. The Seat Formula Concept is capable of reaching 235 km/h and making the 0-100 km/h sprint in less than 5 seconds.
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Seat Ibiza Bocanegra
Seat Ibiza Bocanegra
The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is a unique, exclusive vehicle that features an uncanny exterior design and a personalised interior, which has undergone major modifications compared to the rest of the range models.
The main characteristic feature of the new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is found on the front of the car. As its name suggests, the imposing black volume at the front is reminiscent of a mask, which strengthens the stylishness of SEAT's new model.
The top half of the front on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is emphasised by completely black double headlights and the central grille with its honeycomb mesh and black surround, including its innovative air vents at the base. The bumper combines black with the body colour with a broad grille beneath that takes care of cooling the engine.
Other outstanding exterior elements are the door mirrors with their black housing, the sunroof and the attractive 17 inch "Sira" rims and low profile 215/40 R17 tyres. But what really identifies the personality of the Spanish brand's new car is the "Bocanegra" badge centred on the hatch door, a characteristic trait of SEAT's most exclusive versions.
The inside, the first thing that gets your attention on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra are the seats, which are upholstered with specific fabric made up of rhomboids stitched together in red that lend a definitively sporty look. In addition, the upper part of the seats sports the logo that identifies this version - a capital "B" also stitched in red.
The other eye-catching element in the interior is the three-spoke steering wheel, which features a capital "B" for Bocanegra in aluminium in the middle of the vertical spoke, as well as the seven-speed DSG shift paddles. Different shades of black prevail in the interior, especially the Brillante Black and Carbón Black of several trim elements.
The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra will be available in the SEAT Ibiza FR and SEAT Ibiza CUPRA versions equipped with the twin charged 1.4 TSI engine, either with 150 or 180 hp output, featuring a broad equipment line-up including the self-blocking XDS system, which anticipates traction loss to the wheels and limits tractive force to the wheel expected to lose grip, ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Assist, low tyre pressure warning, driver and passenger airbag, head-chest airbag, sports suspension and cornering foglights.
The main characteristic feature of the new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is found on the front of the car. As its name suggests, the imposing black volume at the front is reminiscent of a mask, which strengthens the stylishness of SEAT's new model.
The top half of the front on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is emphasised by completely black double headlights and the central grille with its honeycomb mesh and black surround, including its innovative air vents at the base. The bumper combines black with the body colour with a broad grille beneath that takes care of cooling the engine.
Other outstanding exterior elements are the door mirrors with their black housing, the sunroof and the attractive 17 inch "Sira" rims and low profile 215/40 R17 tyres. But what really identifies the personality of the Spanish brand's new car is the "Bocanegra" badge centred on the hatch door, a characteristic trait of SEAT's most exclusive versions.
The inside, the first thing that gets your attention on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra are the seats, which are upholstered with specific fabric made up of rhomboids stitched together in red that lend a definitively sporty look. In addition, the upper part of the seats sports the logo that identifies this version - a capital "B" also stitched in red.
The other eye-catching element in the interior is the three-spoke steering wheel, which features a capital "B" for Bocanegra in aluminium in the middle of the vertical spoke, as well as the seven-speed DSG shift paddles. Different shades of black prevail in the interior, especially the Brillante Black and Carbón Black of several trim elements.
The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra will be available in the SEAT Ibiza FR and SEAT Ibiza CUPRA versions equipped with the twin charged 1.4 TSI engine, either with 150 or 180 hp output, featuring a broad equipment line-up including the self-blocking XDS system, which anticipates traction loss to the wheels and limits tractive force to the wheel expected to lose grip, ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Assist, low tyre pressure warning, driver and passenger airbag, head-chest airbag, sports suspension and cornering foglights.
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Frankfurt 2009: Seat IBZ concept
Seat loves to present its concepts in a lapis-like blue with deep cream interior coloring. It's usually a very good start, and the IBZ concept adds an Alfa-worthy beauty to what might otherwise be an ordinary wagon. Number three in the Ibiza lineup, the concept takes the Ibiza hatch platform and adds more interior room while keeping the virtually the same exterior dimensions.
The IBZ will be put into production as soon as January of next year. Of course the more wily elements, like the headlights, will go the way of the moa. Yet based on the preview and Seat's impressive record of translating concepts to reality,
PRESS RELEASE
FAMILY-SIZED SEAT IBIZA CONCEPT IBZ WOWS FRANKFURT
SEAT is showcasing the stunning IBZ Concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. The star of the SEAT stand in Germany previews a new, family-sized version of the Ibiza that will make its debut in showrooms across Europe towards the middle of next year.
Boasting a modern, tensioned silhouette, the concept car making its world debut at the IAA includes numerous distinctive exterior and interior design features, and benefits from cutting-edge technology for a gripping driving experience.
Once again, SEAT Design Director Luc Donckerwolke has applied his pragmatic vision to create an attractive yet functional car where comfort and roominess complement the traditional sports philosophy common to all SEATs.
The world debut of the bold IBZ Concept is another significant step on the company's path to extending its range line-up. The challenge it meets is to combine a larger, family-sized chassis featuring greater load capacity with the distinct, feisty personality of the Ibiza.
Imposing front view
The nose of the concept car shows an elegant evolution of SEAT's now trademark Arrow Design. The bonnet features a new 'running edge', splitting the car through its longitudinal axis, adding precision and sharpness to the familiar Ibiza face. Taut 'eyebrows' accentuate the headlights, whose diamond-shaped interior combines LED technology with light guides.
The new centre grille, with honeycomb slats and aluminium surround, is underlined by the same purist, rectangular air vents found on the Ibiza Cupra. Another development at the front sees the usual arrow shape enhanced by a set of lines parallel to the headlights, finishing at the broad opening beneath the bumper. Two aluminium mouldings in this area round off the front end design.
Very clearly styled to stand out, the IBZ Concept boasts an attractive sweep created by the newly-designed headlights, complete with LED technology. Their pointed tips provide continuity to the Dynamic Line that brushes over the wings and the middle of the front doors, while their novel interior structure mimics the facets of a diamond. One set generates the main beam, while the smaller LEDs generate the dipped beam. At the same time, a portion of the smaller facets at the top of the cluster serve as daytime driving lights, with the indicator LEDs at the bottom.
The exterior design of SEAT's prototype is enhanced by its high gloss, eye-catching blue paint colour while a broad panoramic sunroof floods the interior with light.
The LED indicator lights literally stand out, as they are built into the new streamlined door mirrors – each one mounted onto its door with a pair of arms. The exterior arm which supports the mirror, and the mirror's outer casing are both aluminium to match the other trim elements found on the car.
A side view reveals low profile 235/35 tyres on attractive, five double-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, each with an embossed 'S' at the hub. Another tell-tale SEAT feature of the IBZ Concept are the Leon-inspired rear passenger door handles, which are neatly integrated into the third side windows.
The attention-grabbing new hatch naturally bears the SEAT logo and when the rear hatch is open, its structure has a very low load floor that sits flush with the number plate. Meanwhile, the broad rear window provides great visibility. An elegant, high-mount roof spoiler houses the third brake light – underlining the car's sporting intent.
As usual, the SEAT logo doubles as the boot handle mechanism and the prototype is easily identified by the 'IBZ' initials beneath the logo in the centre of the hatch.
The crisp rear section of the IBZ Concept is further enhanced by the addition of defined 'shoulders' that house the light clusters. As with the striking headlights, they feature LED technology on a raised surface. From bottom to top, the LEDs create the sidelights, brake, reverse and indicator lights.
The final highlights rounding off the view of the rear are a new bumper, which has a built-in number plate, a number plate light at the bottom of the hatch and split twin tailpipes, which each boast a stylish aluminium bezel.
Where space and style combine
The passenger compartment of the SEAT Ibiza IBZ Concept offers space and style in equal measure, with fine detailing and functional innovations throughout.
The interior is structured by 'light guide' strips that run through the dashboard and the doors, integrating the radio/iPhone interface screen and providing atmospheric lighting at the same time.
The light, airy tones of the cream coloured 'Magnolia' interior heighten the feeling of space inside this SEAT. The dashboard features the same colour, and a different texture is provided via the suede-clad soft pads. The instrument binnacle hood, door panels, pillars and ceiling are also finished in suede.
The newly-designed seats and integrated headrests are upholstered with a combination of leather and suede in the same colour as the dashboard, with blue stitching to match the body colour.
In trademark sporty SEAT style, the steering wheel on the IBZ Concept is slightly flattened at the base. It is wrapped in leather and suede and has a four-spoke structure with dipped side grips, the SEAT 'S' in the centre and the letters 'IBZ' on the lower spoke, and a set of newly designed multi-functional controls on either side.
Naturally, the sporty design of the instrument panel is faithful to the brand's identity. The large dial on the left is the rev counter, with a screen taking up the rest of the space. On the right is an analogue and digital speed display, with the navigation information, trip computer and remaining vehicle controls shown in the middle.
There are four circular air vents on the dashboard encased in aluminium. A special interior design concept features a striking combination of aluminium layered with a glossy black material that make up a line with recessed lighting extending across the dashboard and continuing onto the door panels. The centre houses a screen displaying radio and iPhone functions, and the centre console has a purpose-built iPhone slot.
The centre console also features a stylish climate control system with all the usual functions; the gear stick with a leather gaiter and a panel with buttons to activate the hazard lights, door locks and seat heaters, as well as several storage compartments. Close by is an electronic hand-brake and the central armrest, which is cloth upholstered with a handy storage compartment that can also be removed from the vehicle.
The newly designed door panels on the IBZ Concept echo the style of the dashboard, with the soft pad in suede and an aluminium insert beneath the armrest. The aluminium door handles and speaker frames are also new – the latter with a unique arrangement of square slats.
Predictably perhaps, beneath the rear hatch of the new SEAT Ibiza IBZ Concept lies a spacious boot. Measuring an impressive 410 litres, it can be significantly extended when the rear seats are folded to leave a completely flat cargo space that stretches right to the back of the front seats.
The boot's low load height makes it easy to access, allowing heavy or bulky items to be loaded more simply. It also provides several solutions for keeping objects securely in place such as side hooks or storage nets on either side of the wheel arches.
There's also a supplementary storage compartment beneath the folding boot floor. A cover leads to the spare wheel and tool box.
The detailing in the boot once again shows SEAT's quality workmanship in practice. The edges of the floor covering are finished with leather, and the soft pads on the side are in cream-coloured suede.
Third member of the Ibiza family
With the unveiling of the stylish Ibiza Concept IBZ at Frankfurt Motor Show, SEAT is offering a preview of the future family-sized version of its most popular model. The production version is expected to arrive in showrooms across Europe next year as the company continues its new product offensive which is making the Spanish brand's range the youngest on the market.
In the year of the Ibiza's 25th anniversary, the newest addition to the range underlines the car's segment-leading quality, design and workmanship.
The chassis of the new IBZ Concept has the same compact dimensions as an Ibiza hatch, with a total length of 4.22 metres and the same height and width. However, access to the rear seats is improved still further via broader rear doors.
As with the rest of the SEAT range the sporty, design-driven youthful style of the new Ibiza IBZ Concept make it perfect for those who value space, practicality, comfort and driving enjoyment.
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2009 Seat Ibiza Bocanegra
2009 Seat Ibiza Bocanegra Car Show
2009 Seat Ibiza Bocanegra Dasboard
2009 Seat Ibiza Bocanegra Picture
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Seat Ibiza Bocanegra unveiled in Barcelona
SEAT has morphed the Bocanegra Concept into a production-ready car and stayed largely true to the concept. The car isn't something completely new – it's more of an option package fitted to the Cupra. As such, the aesthetic differences don't serve any additional purpose – the flanking front grille vents are closed, for instance -- but that's not necessarily a crime when the car still looks pretty good.
Outside, in addition to that new grille and 17-inch Sira alloys (which have nothing on the concept's rims), a pair of fog lights graces the front bumper and AP brake calipers brace the front rotors. The engine is the Cupra's 1.4 TSI in 150-hp or 180-hp flavors. Inside the Blackmouth, the rhomboid-stitched seat centers remain from the Geneva show car's, with much milder (and probably more comfortable) bolsters. Gloss black trim, aluminum pedals, and lots of letter "B"s grace the cabin. The car will be offered in a red called "Dakota" and a white called "Candy" and be available later this year.
[Source: Autoblog Spanish]
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Seat Exeo
Our Spanish colleagues tell us that the Iberians are none too happy about SEAT grabbing a previous generation A4 out of the garbage bin to make a new sedan. Never mind the opportunity to make an easy(-ier) profit – something that would have any automaker quaking with giddyness right now – the word "Exeo" right now translates as "It just ain't right!" Those of you who have seen the previous A4 won't be surprised by anything here, except perhaps the richness and quality of the suede interior. We can assure you it was impressive. The mirror housings are neat, too, but standard fare for SEAT. Based on the approval ratings of the old A4 by the time it retired, our guess is that new customers the Exeo is meant to attract won't be disappointed that they found their way to SEAT through these four doors.
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SEAT Ibiza Cupra unveiled
In Europe, budget-minded pistonheads have a treasure trove of hot hatches to choose from, and SEAT will be adding another model to the mix later this year.
The Ibiza Cupra will be officially unveiled in Paris, but Seat has dropped the first few images and a handful of specs ahead of its official unveiling in the City of Light this October. The Cupra is packing a twin-turbocharged, 1.4-liter TSI four underhood, sending 178 hp to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox. Traction control and ESP are part of the package, along with a stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels and bolstered buckets. The exterior benefits from a new fascia incorporating massive grilles and tiny fog lamps, side skirts and a new rear bumper.
Prices and performance stats haven't been released yet, but the Renaultsport Clio 197 competitor should be priced around £16,000 when it hits dealers in Europe in December.
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SEAT unveils Ibiza SportCoupé
Following the launch of the SEAT Ibiza five-door in April, the Spanish automaker has debuted the new Ibiza SportCoupé. When compared to the five-door, the new three-door appears nearly identical from the front. However, a glance at the profile reveals striking differences in the C-pillar. Where the rear side window on the five-door sweeps upward towards the integrated spoiler, the window sill on the new coupe follows the contour defined by the crease in the fender. The rear of the vehicle, with the large hatch, seems nearly unchanged.
Targeted towards a sportier clientele than its sibling, the SportCoupé sits 17mm (.67") lower than the five-door. When equipped with the 1.6-liter (105 PS) powerplant, the Ibiza will be offered with a seven-speed DSG double-clutch gearbox (courtesy of Volkswagen, SEAT's parent company). SEAT promises even high-performance Ibiza FR and Ibiza Cupra versions will debut over the coming months. We know Americans are supposed to hate hatchbacks, but more minds would change if vehicles like the SEAT SportCoupé were available here.
SVELTE NEW SEAT IBIZA SPORTCOUPÉ BREAKS COVER
Hot on the heels of the smart SEAT Ibiza five-door's international debut, the dynamic Spanish car maker is today revealing its stunning new Ibiza SportCoupé.
With two fewer doors and an even more svelte shape than its stylish five-door supermini sibling, the sassy SportCoupé is tailored very clearly towards drivers keen to mix fun and functionality with a head-turning shape.
The SportCoupé's bespoke silhouette – at 1,428 mm it is 17 mm lower than the five-door with a markedly different and more aggressive design treatment throughout – clearly signals the sporting intentions of the latest addition to the new Ibiza family.
And that dedication to driving excitement is underlined by the newcomer's technical highlights which include the option of cutting edge seven-speed DSG double clutch gearbox technology – a world first for the supermini segment.
The ultra slick-shifting automatic/sequential manual 'box will be available on 105 PS 1.6-litre versions of the new car, while crisp handling and a composed ride are assured courtesy of the Ibiza SC's all-new supermini platform – the first application of this particular engineering base in the Volkswagen Group.
There's also a different interpretation of designer Luc Donckerwolke's 'Arrow Design', with lowered headlights and repositioned radiator grille serving to reinforce the muscular new motor's obvious kerb appeal.
Precise engine and trim combos have yet to be confirmed, although it's already clear that more potent FR and Cupra versions of the new Ibiza will certainly sport SC styling when they make their debuts over the coming months.
SEAT Head of Marketing, Steve Robertson, said of the important addition to the new Ibiza family: 'Traditionally, a significant part of our business has been built on the success of three-door Ibiza, so the unveiling of this stunning new SportCoupé is a key moment for us.
'I know our existing Ibiza owners, as well as sports-orientated supermini buyers generally, will be thrilled at what they see. Personally, I can't wait to see the new Ibiza SC on the road here in the UK!'
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SEAT reveals limited edition Leon Supercopa
The SEAT Leon Supercopa series that visits tracks in seven European countries is, according to SEAT, "the most powerful single-brand competition in Europe." In celebration of the series, Seat is making a special edition SEAT Leon Copa Edition that arguably looks even hotter than the race car.
The 2007 race car had a turbocharged inline 4 with 301 horsepower. The special edition version for the street gets the 2.0-liter TFSI, putting out 285 hp and 265 lb-ft. That means you get sixteen fewer chevaux than the race car, but fourteen more pounds of churn. With Eibach springs, bigger brakes, a SEAT Sport bodykit and 18" wheels, the package is good for a 5.9-second run to 62-MPH. If you want one, you'll need to scrounge up €38,500, and you'll need to hurry: SEAT is only making 55 of them.
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2009 Seat Ibiza
Seat today unveiled first images and details of the 2009 Ibiza, model previewed by the SportCoupe Bocanegra Concept unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
Longer than the current model – the new 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 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 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.
Press release
Today, 2nd April, the covers come off the most important new model in Spanish car maker SEAT’s recent history with the unveiling of the all-new 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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!
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2008 Seat Ibiza Concept
Seat will unveil at the Geneva Motor Show a concept version of the next generation Ibiza at the Geneva Motor Show. The Concept will be called Bocangera
The production version, the Ibiza Cupra will be powered by a VW Group’s 1.4 TSI engine delivering something between 170 and 200 Hp. The production Ibiza will be unveiled at the Madrid International Motor Show in May.
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