|
|
|---|
|
|
|---|
All new from the wheels up, the fourth generation Seat Ibiza is the work of ex-Lamborghini stylist Luc Donckerwolke. Seat sees the new Ibiza as the most important new model in its recent history. The new Seat Ibiza will kick off Seat's product offensive, among which further Ibiza variants and the long awaited new upper-medium segment saloon and estate based on the previous generation Audi A4.
The new Seat Ibiza hopes to reinforce its position as a leader in the supermini segment with a bigger and better new generation model. The five-door hatchback comes with 'big-car' options like seven-speed DSG automatic/sequential manual gearbox, Hill Hold Assist and front fog lights with side illumination function.
The new Ibiza has grown in size and now measures 4.05 meters in length (versus 3.97 meters previously) with a 292 liter boot space with the rear seats in place. Width has grown too, thanks to its Agile Chassis the front and rear tracks are 30 mm and 33 mm wider respectively.
The front wheel drive car comes with a choice of 1.2 liter three cylinder 70hp petrol engine, 1.4 liter four cylinder 85 hp petrol engine or 1.6 liter four cylinder petrol engine producing 102 hp. All three engines are paired with a 5 speed manual gearbox. Seat has established itself in the diesel market and will in due course offer its sporty diesel engines on its supermini too.
Seat UK Peter Wyhinny commented: “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!” 
Seat has today announced that it will extend the Seat Altea Freetrack model range with a entry level model powered by a 2.0 TDI engine. The new 140hp 2.0 TDI version is available in both 4WD and front-wheel-drive and delivers some decent performance, like a top speed of 193 km/h, 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 10.2 seconds and completes a 1,000 m dash in 32 seconds while consuming just 6.5 liters per 100 km/h on a combined cycle.
The four-wheel-drive system is a part-time one using a Haldex-type clutch arrangement. This means that the Altea Freetrack under normal road conditions uses only the front wheels, but if circumstances demand it, up to 50% of torque can be sent to the rear axle.
The 140 hp 2।0 TDI joins the 170 hp 2.0 TDI and 200 hp TFSI in the engine line-up. The Seat Altea Freetrack is the Spanish marque's first all-road vehicle and is based on the Seat Altea XL. The Altea Freetrack went on sale last summer after its Barcelona show debut in June.
The Altea freetrack is equipped with the latest safety elements for peace of mind travelling alone or with the whole family.
The freetrack features six airbags as standard across the entire range (driver, passenger, side and head airbags) and two more can be added to cushion the rear sides without hindering the possibility of sliding the rear seat for increased cargo. The rear seats are also fitted with Isofix anchoring points for child seats.
The car also includes all the usual electronic active safety systems: ABS, TCS and ESP + DSR with EBA and tyre pressure warning.
The TCS traction control intervenes in the engine management to prevent the wheels from spinning when accelerating on slippery surfaces while the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) teams up with the Driving Steering Recommendation (DSR) system, which detects the quality of braking at each axle and takes corrective action by transmitting a small impulse to the steering wheel to keep the vehicle on the correct course. EBA (Emergency Brake Assistance) can also come to the driver's aid by boosting the brake pressure during an emergency stop.
The ESP system fitted to the freetrack also incorporates TSP (Trailer Stability Program), which is specifically designed to enhance vehicle safety when towing. TSP helps stabilise a trailer when towing in bad weather, on a poor road surface or under emergency braking.
The chassis structure itself is yet another safety feature, and the freetrack's has been developed as a protective cell. In the event of an impact, the areas of programmed deformation have been well-studied to provide maximum energy absorption and the highest level of passenger protection.
Technology is clearly at the heart of this vehicle, thus the latest Altea freetrack features the sophisticated new SEAT Mediasystem navigator as an option. Many significant improvements have been made to previous navigation equipment, and the new Mediasystem integrates numerous extra functions.
The system includes DVD mapping information featuring no less than 28 Western European countries, a 6.5" colour touch screen with VGA (800 x 400) resolution and a 30 Gb internal hard disk, to slash route planning calculation times.
Manufactured by Siemens, and with Navteq mapping, the SEAT Mediasystem includes several other non-navigation facilities that improve communication and deliver stereo sound quality. One of its highlights is sound adjustment - it optimises sound according to the volume and shape of each model's passenger compartment.
With the new Mediasystem, the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell has furnished all current and future audio and video needs by developing a system that responds to new uses and available technology.
On-board entertainment can be enhanced still further via an innovative, optional, 7" TFT screen multimedia system. The screen folds down from the car's roof lining, and the system includes an RCA connection to plug in DVD players, video games consoles, laptops and MP3 players, with sound played through the car's own sound system.
Generous standard equipment
The SEAT Altea freetrack features a broad range of standard equipment including fog lamps front and rear, electric heated door mirrors, twin chrome tailpipe, roof rails, dual zone climate control air conditioning, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, leather steering wheel and gearknob, one-touch electric front windows with anti-trap function, rain sensing windscreen wipers, cruise control, trip computer, 'coming home' headlight function, CD/MP3 stereo radio with steering wheel controls and AUX-in connection, remote controlled central locking, electromechanical power steering, front and side airbags with front passenger airbag deactivation, Isofix child seat anchoring points, height adjustable front seats with lumbar control, tyre pressure monitoring and 225/50 tyres on 17-inch alloy rims.
The range of optional extras includes tempting choices such as the new generation navigation system with 6.5 inch touch screen, DVD player and 30 Gb hard disk, Bluetooth connection with steering wheel controls, heated front seats, Bi-xenon headlights and AFS, rear privacy glass, rear side airbags and more.
The SEAT Altea freetrack 4WD equipped with the efficient 140 hp 2.0 TDI engine guarantees on and off-road driving satisfaction. Whatever the destination, its gripping traction, performance, low fuel consumption and stability on any type of terrain make driving it a real pleasure.
| CO2 emissions | |
| 2.0 TSI 200 hp 4WD | 223 |
| 2.0 TDI 140 hp 2WD | 163 |
| 2.0 TDI 140 hp 4WD | 171 |
| 2.0 TDI 170 hp 4WD | 179 |
SEAT Altea freetrack optional equipment
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 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.
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.
The 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 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 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 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.
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.
The 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 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.
As if the menacing Cupra’s look wasn’t enough, SEAT is now offering its UK customers an even scarier car to drive in, with the K1 Limited Edition Styling Kit. Purely a plastic surgery kit – the 2.0-litre turbo still kicks out 240 bhp/ 179kW. SEAT has gone a step further by slightly dropping the price of a standard Cupra by some 200 quid, helping to make good headway for the inclusion of K1 for future purchases.
Colours offered are Inferi Black, Emocion Red, Luna Grey and Candy white. Work has been done on both bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler. Exhaust system has borrowed from big brothers Porsche and Audi by going central and oval for shape respectively. Wheels will be 18-inch alloys which cost £205 RRP and come in either black or white.
Yesterday some official looking schematics of the 2008 Seat Ibiza popped up on the internet, a week ahead of the official debut at Geneva. They seem to have come from a parts inventory software sytem that is commonly used by insurance companies or by non-franchised service facilties. The two sketches claim to be a Model (Modello) IB (Ibiza) while the year (Ano) selected is 2009, but after tracking down the source images we noticed that they are dated April 2007.
Today we also came a across a computer rendering of what looks like a close-to-finalized Seat ibiza. Who made the rendering is not known, so for all we know it could be real too. Let us know what you think below in the comments.
Next week we will finally know what the new Seat Ibiza will look like, and we will report on it live from Geneva! Stay tuned.
