2009 Seat Ibiza Scooped

These are the first spy shots of Seat’s upcoming Ibiza hatch which should logically be introduced at the Geneva Show next March. Sharing common underpinnings with the second-generation Skoda Fabia, the new Ibiza looks like it has grown in dimensions compared with the current model. While the pictures aren’t exactly crystal clear, we can see that the Ibiza’s designers have favored a family look, taking several cues from the larger Leon. As for the engine range, VW is preparing a new generation of 1.2-litre turbocharged engines which will substitute the current 1.4-litre normally aspirated petrol units in late 2008 or early 2009. At a later date Seat will enhance the range with the sporty versions, “FR” (1.4-litre turbo, 150Hp), and the “Cupra”(1,8-liter turbo, 170+Hp). -Continued after the jump

Via: Motorpasion , Source: hoymotor

Frankfurt Show: Seat Tribu Concept SUV

According to Seat, the Tribu Concept previews the design language of the next models to be launched by the Spanish company (Ibiza and Toledo). Moreover, it's the first model to be penned by Seat's new Chief Designer, Luc Donckerwolke since he came to the Spanish brand after holding the same position at Lamborghini. To be completely honest, we don't understand what the fuss is all about. In our eyes the Tribu features a 'crispier' or 'edgier' interpretation of Seat's current design language as previewed by the Salsa concept which led to the second generation Leon. -Press release and image gallery after the jump

THE NEW SEAT TRIBU

A glimpse of the future

A concept car that offers a preview of upcoming models

Three drive modes: Urban, Sport and Freerun

A tough, compact and truly sporty image

Frankfurt is the venue for the launch of a concept car which is very important to SEAT, as it represents a turning point in the future of the Spanish brand. Just as the Salsa prototype was the prelude to the SEAT Leon, the new Tribu demonstrates the design basis for the next models to be launched by SEAT.

Indeed, the new Tribu is the first model to be completely designed by the Spanish brand's Chief Designer, Luc Donckerwolke and his team, since he joined SEAT after holding the same position at Lamborghini. Straighter and well-defined shapes, combined with sharper lines, increase the surface tension of the components which make up the model's design, and mark a change from the current design of the SEAT models. The Tribu has a robust yet sporty look allied with great versatility. Comfortable interiors, filled with passenger comfort and technological features. And of course a high-performance diesel engine with excellent environmental compatibility.

That's what future SEAT models will be like, with this concept car giving us a sneak preview.

Creative force

The Tribu once again demonstrates SEAT's enormous potential to create and develop new models. Its design reflects the SEAT brand's genes and its 'auto emocion' slogan; this design is innovative, with a strikingly sporty character and great vitality. And even more importantly, this concept car is not just looking to be the star of the motor show: its also previews the design trends for future SEAT models.

This was the case in the past for the SEAT Salsa, a vehicle which received great acclaim when it was unveiled in 2000, and was the prototype for the design and compact architecture of the SEAT Leon and the Altea family of today.

The Tribu is the latest in a line of SEAT concept cars, and is suitable for both on-road and off-road driving.

Three spirits in just one car

The Tribu manages to reconcile the contrasting worlds of town and country. Indeed, it could be said to be a car which is designed just as much for the town as it is for the country.

Three very different modes are combined in the one body, with the driver able to select the mode of his or her choice at any time. Depending on whether Urban, Sport or Freerun mode is selected, the new SEAT concept car changes its technical parameters (engine management, suspension, transmission and so on) in order to adapt to the circumstances in which it is used.

As the name indicates, Urban drive mode is for driving in urban areas, and prioritises comfort and fuel economy, as well as emissions reduction. Sport mode can be selected for showing off the sheer power of the Tribu's engine, with the main technical parameters for this mode being performance and driving dynamics. Finally, when heading off-road, Freerun mode adjusts the engine, transmission and suspension, enabling the Tribu's 4x4 nature to shine through.

And the Tribu does not just adjust its parameters in line with the selected drive mode. It also adapts to information from the vehicle's instruments, and even in some cases to the interior configuration.

SEAT genes

The most striking feature when you get close to the new Tribu is the complete evolution that the concept car undergoes compared with the SEAT range to date. The innovative hatchback and the impressive 20'' wheels make us realise that we are looking at a SEAT of the next generation. Even the untrained eye will easily be able to spot characteristic elements of the brand genes in the prototype's sideline and the expressive front end.

The dynamic line, which is so characteristic of SEAT models, has evolved and reconfirms its presence on the vehicle, starting from the front section, above the headlights. If we consider the headlights to be the Tribu's eyes, the start of the sideline is its eyebrows. This strong front line continues above the front wheel arch along the side of the vehicle to the rear.

The new generation of SEAT models will undoubtedly be easy to recognise from any angle.

But this is where the similarities with any other SEAT models end.

A three-door model with compact and sporty looks

The new Tribu displays all the features of a true SUV, and like traditional four-wheel-drive vehicles, there is a clear separation in its outline between the body of the vehicle (the passenger compartment) and the wheels and fenders. In addition, its compact shape gives the Tribu a truly sporty feel. From a raised frontal position, its expressive headlights and front panel, combined with the overhanging wheel arches, give the Tribu the look of a single-seater racing car. And the Tribu's appearance does not flatter to deceive, as its off-road character, impressive ground clearance and its total four-wheel-drive system, make it an authentic off-roader.

We could even go as far as saying that the colour of the new concept car contributes to its off-roader look. The Tribu's metallic yellow paintwork makes it blend in with the ochre shades of rural tracks, contributing to the car's closeness with nature. As a special feature, the less exposed parts, such as the hood, are finished with a layer of shiny paint. Areas that would suffer more from the effects of minor bumps or the impact of stones are covered with matt paintwork.

The side section of the new Tribu contains numerous design features that enhance its sporty feel. In addition to the dynamic line which already characterises the current generation of SEAT models, it is worth highlighting the absence, to the naked eye at least, of a B pillar, which gives continuity along the length of the side section up to the front and rear windows. The compact and sporty shape of the Tribu is also emphasised by its three-door configuration, with the driver and passenger doors being large size, and, as a special feature, not having frames.

Although undeniably sporty, the Tribu does not forget that it is also a 4x4. Off-roader features, such as the roof rack, can be appreciated from the side. The roof rack itself is original, as it is incorporated into the body of the vehicle, which is extended upwards in order to provide space.

The integrated turn signals are a special feature of the door mirrors. These turn signals are located inside aluminium-coloured mouldings, featuring a trapezoidal shape which is the hallmark of this model.

Finally, as regards the side section of the prototype, the Tribu's door handles are worthy of a mention. When the vehicle is locked, the handles retract into the door. However, when the vehicle is being opened, the handles rotate on an axle, making them accessible.

The trapezoidal geometry of the front headlights, radiator grille and air intakes, as well as the new-look extended hexagonal shape of the grilles, give the Tribu a powerful, ultra-strong appearance. In the same way, the overhanging front and rear wheel arches add to the previously mentioned design features, giving the Tribu a sporty feel.

Viewed from the front, and from behind, the large yet compact bonnet stands out, and the windscreen also extends along the length of the vehicle's roof. In this way, the windscreen and the panoramic roof blend into one, allowing a maximum amount of light into the passenger compartment, which makes it ideal for enjoying the scenery.

On the rear section of the Tribu, the most striking feature when viewed with the naked eye is the lack of rear lights. The rear lights are in fact located behind the hatchback, and can only be seen when illuminated, when the brake lights, sidelights and indicators are activated. The latest technology is used both on the rear lights and the headlights, which are made up of LED lights, offering the best possible guarantee of seeing and being seen.

Innovative rear hatch

Another truly original design feature is the novel hatchback opening system. The system moves up along two rails and has two phases. In the first phase, the door only partially opens, enabling small items to be put in or taken out. In the second phase, the hatchback continues moving along its rails until it pivots onto the roof of the vehicle, constituting an example of harmonious integration into the body of the concept car.

The rear fog lights, meanwhile, just like the reversing light, are integrated onto the bumper. The two exhaust outlets are also located on the sides of the bumper. Another feature of the Tribu's sporty spirit is a small aluminium spoiler, matching other parts of the body such as the roof bars, the door handles and the mouldings, where the door mirror indicators are located.

The lower section of the front and rear bumpers is formed by mouldings in black, guaranteeing protection for the body when the new Tribu heads off-road.

This is also the case along the sides of the vehicle, with the lower section in the same material with the same purpose. However, viewed from the side, all eyes will be drawn to the impressive 20'' wheels, with 255/50 tyres. Their design features a striking trapezoidal shape which has already been mentioned in connection with the mirrors, and which is also evident in other elements both on the inside and outside of the vehicle, while the impressive brake discs can be seen through the wheels.

With the modernity and spaciousness of a loft

Once the doors of the new Tribu are opened, the first thing that will catch the eye is the interior concept, which is inspired by the colours, design, luminosity and proportions of a loft-type space, where spaciousness and modernity go hand-in-hand. The wide range of technical features which maximise comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers also stands out. And that is without mentioning the vehicle's excellent passenger and driver space, and the practical solutions that not only invite you to travel, but also to enjoy the journey.

The joint windscreen and panoramic roof bring the outside world into the Tribu. This feature also makes us feel that we are travelling in a vehicle which is much roomier than its actual dimensions would suggest.

With a four-seat interior configuration, we can see that the front seats are authentic bucket seats which boast ideal ergonomics and which feature height and fore-aft adjustment as well as having integrated seatbelts. The Tribu's front seats boast several special design features. In particular, they have their own independent air conditioning circuits. In addition, the air outlets for the rear seats are located on the back of the front seats.

These seats are separated by a central tunnel which can be used as an armrest or drinks holder, as well as offering practical storage space. Without quite being bucket seats, the rear seats also stand out due to their sports vehicle configuration, guaranteeing maximum lateral hold. The rear seats can also be folded down in order to create a totally flat space, thus increasing boot capacity.

Once in the driver's seat, we really notice a major qualitative improvement in terms of materials, as well as the design and technology.

Great emphasis has also been placed on driver and passenger space. The Tribu is not just about design: it is also a highly practical vehicle. Despite its compact shape and dimensions, all four passengers travel in a comfortable and spacious environment.

The standard gear lever and handbrake have been removed from between the two front seats, giving the driver and front passenger more space. The gear lever has been replaced by a sequential gear change system controlled from the steering wheel, and the handbrake by a button located on the central console. The reverse, ignition, boot opening and hazard light buttons are located next to the handbrake button.

The steering wheel is also a brand new SEAT design. With three spokes, it has a truly sporty feel. Cutting-edge technology has also been used on the wheel: with both sound and mobile phone systems, as well as navigation and cruise control, being controlled from it.

All information at a glance

The dashboard offers the Tribu driver a wealth of information. This is concentrated primarily in the two dials (speedometer and rev counter) and in the TFT touchscreen, which is available for all passengers and displays information common to the three driving modes: audio system, vehicle configuration, air conditioning and so on.

The first auxiliary screen, located to the left of the speedometer and rev counter next to the driver's door, gives traffic information when in Urban mode, displays speed when driving in Sport mode, and shows a compass when in Freerun mode.

The second of the auxiliary screens, located between the speedometer and the rev counter, displays pure visual information from the navigation system, speed in a digital format with a stopwatch, and finally incline, when in Urban, Sport and Freerun modes respectively.

The third auxiliary screen is located to the right of the dials: in Urban mode it displays information from the 3D navigation system, and in Sport mode it provides information about the suspension system and tyre pressure, as well as oil temperature. In Freerun mode, a topographical navigation screen appears.

This information is optimally managed, so that far from being a problem, it only serves to help the driver.

In a 21st century vehicle such as the Tribu, the most in-demand multimedia connections just had to be included. In the tunnel below the dashboard, there are MP3 ports with USB and iPod connections, as well as an internet connection.

Another original eye-catching design feature is the air vent along the length of the dashboard, moving away from the traditional nozzle concept. This air conditioning system outlet has the trapezoidal shape already seen elsewhere on the Tribu such as on the footrest and pedals.

Another eye-catching interior feature in the Tribu is the use of inlays on both the dashboard and the door panels, with finishes in the exterior colour of the concept car.

It should also be highlighted that the materials used on the interior of the Tribu are strong, recyclable and easy to clean, and are intermingled with metal elements. The materials are of a colour and texture similar to neoprene black. The metal panels, meanwhile, use the bodywork colour, and have a matt finish, to avoid shine and reflections.

Seat Tribu Concept Update: Interior Images Revealed

Nope, we still don’t have any official information on the Tribu Concept. But we did find a set of images revealing the interior. There’s no point in saying more, so once you’ve finished checking out the pictures after the jump –like in two and a half seconds, hop over to our previous post on Seat’s Frankfurt Show crossover concept by clicking here.

Seat Tribu: Frankfurt Show Crossover Concept Breaks Cover

Someone, somehow managed to discover Seat’s Frankfurt Show star, the Tribu Concept. To our misfortune however, that someone didn’t complete the job by capturing the official release, so for the time being, you’ll have to do with our speculations. First of all, the Tribu previews a compact-size, 3door Crossover. If we were to continue speculating, we’d say that the Tribu is loosely based on a shortened version of the Tiguan platform, using the same (AWD) powertrain. But we’d better stop speculating here to avoid making a fool of ourselves if Seat comes and announces that the Tribu is like a crossover version of the upcoming Ibiza or something like that. -Continued after the jump

Pics via: autopareri (sub. req.)

Seat Leon TDI Scores Historic First WTCC Diesel Win

Following Audi’s success with the diesel powered “R10” and barely a month after the Spanish firm announced that it’ll enter the FIA World Touring Car Championship with the Leon TDI, Seat became the first manufacturer to win a round of the WTCC series in a diesel powered car. The Seat Leon TDI WTCC, driven by Yvan Muller, won the first of two races at the Motorsport Arena in Oschersleben, Germany.

Commenting on his success, Muller said, “I am very pleased to give the SEAT León TDI its first World Championship win. We took a big risk introducing it in the middle of the season, but after a lot of hard work to make this new technical innovation work, it has paid us back. We did not expect to win here today, but I am very pleased we did.” -Press release after the jump

HISTORIC WTCC VICTORY IN GERMANY FOR SEAT SPORT

SEAT León TDI scores first diesel engine victory in the WTCC

SEAT scored an historic result in the FIA World Touring Car Championship, by becoming the first manufacturer to win a round of the series in a diesel engined car. The SEAT León TDI WTCC, driven by Yvan Muller, won the first of two races at the Motorsport Arena in Oschersleben, German today, ahead of the SEAT León of pole-sitter Gabriele Tarquini – who continues to highlight how competitive the petrol-engined León is. In Race 2, Jordi Gené completed a remarkable day, finishing 3rd in his SEAT León TDI – having started Race 1 from 18th on the grid!

The results moves Yvan from 6th to 4th in the Drivers’ standings, just 16 points behind the leader (Augusto Farfus) and right in contention for the title with six races remaining. Gabriele is just 5 points further behind in 5th. SEAT out-scored BMW for the second consecutive WTCC race weekend to close the gap to 29 points, while it is now 25 points clear of 3rd-placed Chevrolet. SEAT remains the only team to beat BMW on its home touring car race, with Yvan’s victory matching Rickard Rydell’s ETCC race win in 2004.

Jordi was upset to have qualified 18th, especially as he had been fastest in the first sector and heading towards pole before he made a mistake. Jaime Puig, Director of SEAT Sport, told his driver to ‘keep the faith’ – and it was an inspired piece of advice as Jordi did exactly that, and finished 6th and 3rd respectively. Tiago Monteiro had two hard fought races, finishing 10th and 8th, while Michel Jourdain was fast all weekend, and turned a frustrating 20th qualifying slot into excellent 12th and 9th place race results. Peter Terting, making a comeback to the WTCC with SEAT Sport, had bad lucky. He was a victim of a Turn 2 accident in Race 1 and finished 2 laps down in Race 2, after pitting to repair front bodywork damage.

SEAT scored a 1-2 in the WTCC Independents’ Trophy, with the SEAT Sport Italia Leóns of Roberto Colciago and Massimiliano Pedala winning Races 1 and 2 respectively. It was an incredible performance by both drivers, as Colciago had qualified 3rd overall for the first race, and Pedala had to recover from a first corner accident in Race 1 to win the category in Race 2. That Race 1 start-line accident severely damaged Pierre-Yves Corthals’ Independents’ Trophy leading SEAT Belgium León, sidelining it for the rest of the weekend – and he leaves Germany 3rd in the standings.

Race 1

Gabriele and Yvan made the perfect rolling start, heading side-by side at the front of the 26 car field down into the sharp left Turn 1, as the SEAT León drivers held a secure 1-2 position. Things were far from perfect behind, as Alex Zanardi (BMW) collided with Alain Menu (Chevorlet), who in turn hit the Independents’ Trophy leading driver Pierre-Yves Corthals (SEAT Belgium León) and Massimiliano Pedala (SEAT Sport Italia León) – which saw all four cars hit the pit wall. There then followed an accident coming out of Turn 2, when Felix Porteiro (BMW) and Nicola Larini (Chevorlet) appeared to collide, taking the SEAT Leóns of Peter Terting and Tom Coronel with them – with all four cars retiring from the race.

Jordi was the main beneficiary of these two mid-field incidents, moving from 18th to 6th in his SEAT León TDI – a position he would hold to the end, after brilliantly defending the challenge of Augusto Farfus (BMW).

The Safety Car came out for two laps and the 14 lap race was extended to 16. Yvan was pushing his team-mate hard, and on lap 5 the Frenchman took a different line through Turn 1 and overtook Gabriele on the inside of Turn 2. It was a fair and clean move, and although Gabriele continued to push Yvan hard all the way to the chequered flag, Yvan gave the SEAT León TDI an historic first WTCC victory. Having finished 2nd (in Pau) and 3rd (at Valencia), it was Yvan’s first WTCC victory of the 2007 season.

Tiago Monteiro had moved from 7th to 6th, but his race was spoilt at Turn 1 when Roberto Colciago (SEAT Sport Italia León) clipped the back of his León. With the bodywork rubbing on the rear right tyre, Tiago slowly slipped down to finish 10th. Colciago, meanwhile, had a great race, setting the fastest lap on lap 8 (1:37.262 / 136.80kph) and finishing 8th – ensuring a pole position start for Race 2

Michel Jourdain Jr did extremely well to avoid both first lap accidents and was rewarded with a 12th place finish, having started 20th.

Classification

1. Yvan Muller (SEAT León TDI)…27:57.209

2. Gabriele Tarquini (SEAT Leon)…27:57.655

3. James Thompson (Alfa Romeo)…27:58.002

4. Jorg Muller (BMW)…27:58.465

5. Andy Priaulx (BMW)…27:58.689

6. Jordi Gené (SEAT León TDI)…27:59.973

10. Tiago Monteiro (SEAT León)…28:05.842

12. Michel Jourdain Jr. (SEAT León)…28:13.782

DNF. Peter Terting (SEAT León)

Race 2

Blue skies and bright sunshine had been replaced by clouds and strong wins in the three and a half hours between the end of Race 1 and the beginning of Race 2. Roberto Colciago started from pole, but he was beaten to the first corner by the rear-wheel drive BMWs of Augusto Farfus and Andy Priaulx. Worst still, the SEAT Sport Italia León driver was pushed wide and into the gravel – rejoining at the back of the pack and eventually finishing 14th.

Jordi Gené made a fantastic start from 3rd and the inside line into Turn 1 paid dividends. However, as the cars funnelled into the narrow gap, Jordi’s front wheel was hit and for the remainder of the 14 lap race his steering was out and his car was crabbing down the straights. He did amazingly well to keep James Thompson (Alfa Romeo) behind and he was always close enough to pounce if the fighting Farfus and Priaulx collided – which they didn’t.

Tiago Monteiro was pushing his SEAT León to the limited and ran off the track and across the grass on lap 8, dropping from 6th to 8th and giving team-mate Gabriele Tarquini 7th place in the process. They were followed home by Michel Jourdain in 9th, who finished off a good day with a confidence-boosting performance. Peter Terting’s unlucky race weekend continued, when he had to come into the pits for front bodywork repairs. The talented young German driver finished 2 laps down in 22nd position.

Classification

1. Augusto Farfus (BMW)…22:55.632

2. Andy Priaulx (BMW)… 22:56.196

3. Jordi Gené (SEAT León TDI)…22:58.136

4. James Thompson (Alfa Romeo)… 22:58.494

5. Yvan Muller (SEAT León TDI)…22:59.327

6. Rob Huff (Chevrolet)…22:59.704

7. Gabriele Tarquini (SEAT León)…23:00.270

8. Tiago Monteiro (SEAT León)…23:03.906

9. Michel Jourdain Jr. (SEAT León)…23:05.494

22. Peter Terting (SEAT León)…+2 laps

Driver quotes

Yvan Muller: (SEAT León TDI nº12): “I am very pleased to give the SEAT León TDI its first World Championship win. We took a big risk introducing it in the middle of the season, but after a lot of hard work to make this new technical innovation work, it has paid us back. We did not expect to win here today, but I am very pleased we did.”

Gabriele Tarquini (SEAT León nº 11): “I was very pleased to have qualified on pole, but race day today has been very tough. I scored ten points in the Drivers’ Championship, and I think it is the maximum I could have hoped to score this weekend. The car has worked well all weekend, but I would have liked to have had more speed down the straights.”

Tiago Monteiro (SEAT León nº 18): “It was a weekend full of experience for me, with a lot of overtaking, pushing and crashing. You know the racing is going to be tight when twenty cars qualify within one second of each other, and this is what happened. I made two good starts, but both races were full of incidents. It was a great result for the team, with the first victory for the León TDI and podiums for Yvan, Gabriele and Jordi, and it’s been a very positive race weekend.”

Jordi Gené (SEAT León TDI nº 9): “I started today eighteenth on the grid and with so much bad luck this year I had too many ghosts on my mind. Jaime [Puig] told me to keep the faith, and he was right. Of course I would have liked to have won with the León TDI, but the most important thing is that this is a great result for SEAT. To introduce a new car in the middle of the season is a lot of work, and this is a great reward for the team.”

Michel Jourdain Jr (SEAT León nº10): “I’ve been competitive this weekend and I’m faster each race, but things didn’t go my way again. I was involved in an accident in race one, but I pushed really hard in race two, and in the end I am not so unhappy. I am faster each race and that is the most important thing. Good luck will come I’m sure.”

Peter Terting (SEAT León nº 40): “I’m really disappointed, because I was looking forward to racing in the WTCC again and all I’ve had is bad luck. I had the pace and the car was good, but the accident in the first race had nothing to do with me and I picked up damage in the second race.”

Jaime Puig, Director SEAT Sport: “It has been a fantastic race weekend for us and a great result for the León TDI. I would like to thank the people at SEAT who put faith in us to do this project and the team who have worked very hard in such a short space of time to make the TDI competitive. It was a difficult decision to introduce the diesel engine mid-season, but we saw the potential and made the brave move to go with it. We will also continue to develop the petrol engined León, because this is also very important to us; it is very competitive, as pole position and two victories in the Independents’ Trophy in Germany prove.”

2007 FIA World Touring Car Championship – Standings after Round 16

Manufacturers’

1. BMW, 204 points.

2. SEAT, 175 points.

3. Chevrolet, 150 points.

4. Alfa Romeo, 84 points.

Drivers’

1. Augusto Farfus, 69 points.

2. Andy Priaulx, 68 points.

3. Jörg. Muller, 63 points.

4. Yvan Muller, 56 points.

5. GabrieleTarquini, 51 points.

6. Nicola Larini, 48 points

10. Tiago Monteiro, 29 points.

11. Jordi Gené, 23 points.

18. Michel Jourdain Jr, 3 points.

Independents’ Trophy

1. S. D’Aste, 99 points.

2. L. Rangoni, 93 points.

3. P-Y Corthals, 92 points.

4. R. Colciago, 50 points.

Next Race: Rounds 17/18 of the FIA WTCC takes place at Brands Hatch in the UK on September 22/23

SEAT Becomes First Carmaker To Put Diesel Into WTCC

Just like Audi presented the R10 TDI –the world's first Le Mans diesel race car, Seat will become the first manufacturer team to enter a diesel car at a FIA-organized official World Championship race. At the event in Sweden on the 28th to 29th July, both Jordi Gené and Yvan Muller will drive a Leon WTCC car equipped with a 280 PS diesel engine, derived from the stock 170 PS 2.0-litre TDI Leon FR.

Despite facing a double handicap with the diesel car since, according to regulations, a diesel-powered car has to weigh 30 kg – 66 lb more than one with a petrol engine along with the fact that the intercooler and the turbo are situated ahead of the front axle, thus distorting even weight distribution, the Seat team has faith in the project. After seeing what Audi accomplished with the R10 TDI, who can blame them. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

Jaime Puig, Director of SEAT Sport: ‘The regulations allow us to register a car equipped with a diesel engine, and we were happy to rise to the challenge. We are satisfied with the testing results and believe the Leon TDI WTCC can become a competitive car in the mid to long term. For the moment it will only be driven by Jordi Gené, who has been responsible for its development, and Yvan Muller. Gabriele Tarquini, Tiago Monteiro and Michel Jourdain will continue to drive the usual model.’

Benoit Bagur, SEAT Sport Chief Engineer: ‘Since the FIA made it possible to enter a diesel engine in the competition, we started looking into the viability of the project, and it took off a few months ago. The basis for the engine is the 170 PS 2.0-litre mounted in the Leon FR. We kept the engine block and the cylinder head of the production model, but changed the turbo compressor and gearbox. Furthermore, we had to alter the front part to house the intercooler and create new air intakes. The diesel engine is 35 kg heavier than the petrol, so we had to redistribute some weight. After satisfactory test results, we are eager to see its potential in actual racing conditions.’

Jordi Gené, SEAT driver: ‘We have been working on this project for several months, and appreciate its great potential. I am looking forward to it because one of the aspects I most like about my job is the possibility of working on new car development, and even more so when they feature new technology. We are facing a double handicap with the diesel car. The first is that according to regulations, a diesel car has to weigh 30 kg more than one with a petrol engine. The second is that the intercooler and the turbo are situated ahead of the front axle, which makes weight distribution detrimental compared with a petrol car. But, as the Leon has the best chassis in the Championship and our engine torque will be much higher, I think that, in the mid-term and on certain tracks, we can be competitive.’

Yvan Muller, SEAT driver: ‘I have done some testing with the diesel engine, and the lap times are very similar to the petrol. It is a little slower in the corners because of the extra weight and there is more stress on the tyres, but it is a little bit quicker on the straights. The chassis of the SEAT Leon is one of the best, but the straight-line speed is too slow and now SEAT Sport has found a good solution to this problem. I’m looking forward to racing the Leon for the first time in Sweden.’

SEAT Leon TDI WTCC technical data

BASE CAR

• SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 170 PS

ENGINE

• Turbocharged, four-cylinder in line, transversely-mounted, 16 valves,
• twin overhead camshafts
• Displacement: 2,000 cc
• Bore x stroke: 81 x 95.5 mm
• Maximum power: 280 PS at 4000 rpm
• Maximum torque: 450 Nm at 2500 rpm
• Lubrication: wet sump

TRANSMISSION

• Front-wheel drive
• Gearbox: Hewland six-speed, sequential shift
• Clutch: twin-plate
• Differential: mechanical limited slip differential

CHASSIS

• Front suspension: MacPherson strut, coil springs, gas-filled dampers, anti-roll bar
• Rear suspension: multi-link axle, coil springs, gas-filled dampers, anti-roll bar
• Steering: power-assisted rack and pinion

BRAKES

• Non-assisted dual circuit system
• Front brakes: four-piston callipers, 332 mm steel ventilated discs
• Rear brakes: two-piston callipers, 280 mm steel discs

DIMENSIONS

• Length: 4330 mm
• Width: 1849 mm
• Wheelbase: 2600 mm
• Minimum weight: 1170kg (including driver)

2009 Seat Bolero: Spanish Firm Unveils Details On Its Audi A4 Sized Sedan

Once upon a time, VW Group wanted to transform Seat, whom it had acquired (or rather saved) from Fiat, to a Spanish “Alfa Romeo”. Then all of a sudden we saw Seat presenting models like the Toledo, the Altea XL and recently, the Freetrack... Well, looks like VW’s white-collar workers have learned their lessons. Along with the announcement that they’ll present an all new C/D segment model available in sedan and station-wagon bodies in 2009, Seat also released a set of sketches featuring the sedan version. And yes, it has nothing to do with the abomination called Toledo.

Most probably based on the same, Audi A3/VW Golf/Seat Leon stretched platform that the VW Passat uses, the Toledo’s successor is rumored to be named Bolero. Judging from other VW models, the Bolero will probably get the Group’s latest 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TFSI engines. According to Seat, it will be built at the Martorell plant with the market launch planned for 2009. -Follow the jump for pics an the press release

PROGRESSES IN IMPROVEMENT PLAN FAVOUR DECISION

SEAT to produce two new C/D-segment models in Martorell

The Spanish car maker SEAT, S.A. will manufacture two new C/D-segment models at its plant in Martorell. This was announced today by SEAT chairman Erich Schmitt, during a meeting with several media representatives at the SEAT headquarters. In the future, SEAT will have two versions: a saloon and an estate car.

The decision to produce these models in Martorell, whose market launch is planned for 2009, contributes to considerably improve the capacity utilization of the Spanish plant. This announcement is the first made by SEAT since the dissolution of the brand groups and supports the progress of the Improvement Plan that was set in motion at the beginning of 2007 and whose most important objectives have been met by now.

Erich Schmitt said: “The assignment of the two new C/D-segment models to the plant in Martorell is an historic step for SEAT. By these means, we enlarge our current product range, which does not only give our clients the possibility to grow with the brand, but also enables us to increase the profitability of our dealer network thanks to the availability of these new models.”

Technorati: Seat, Toledo, Bolero, cars, Carscoop

2008 Seat Altea Freetrack Crossover Breaks Cover

A couple of weekst before the official premier at the Barcelona Motor (7 to 17 June, 2007), Seat uncovered its first all-road vehicle, the Altea Freetrack. Loosely based on the homonymous 2007 Geneva Show prototype -forget about the door mounted spare tire, the humongous ground clearance and the pronounced wheel arches, the Freetrack will go on sale in Europe in September.

The Freetrack is equipped with VW Group’s four-wheel drive system (via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control) that under normal use, transfers power to the front wheels, while up to 50% can be distributed to the rear wheels when the need arises. The crossover version of the Altea XL will be available with a 200 hp 2.0 TFSI petrol and a 170 hp 2.0 TDI diesel engine. -Press Release & High-Res Image Gallery after the jump

Via: Autoblog.nl , Source: Seat

NEW SEAT ALTEA FREETRACK: The family adventurer

• The Spanish car maker’s first all-road car
• Four-wheel drive, 200 hp petrol and 170 hp diesel engines
• Rear seat multimedia system fitted as standard

At the upcoming Barcelona Motor Show from 7 to 17 June, SEAT will be presenting its first all-road vehicle – the Altea freetrack. After unveiling the prototype version in Geneva, which hinted at the new model’s silhouette, the definitive version can be seen in Barcelona and goes on sale this summer.

With this model, SEAT is making its debut in the SUV segment, an area of the market which has grown considerably in recent years. The new Altea freetrack is one of the few compact monospace cars on the market featuring clear off-road styling, as well as engines that deliver up to 200 hp. This factor proves the dynamic character of SEAT’s new all-road model, whose slogan “auto emoción” works just as well on- as well as off-road.

Exclusive off-road looks

Based on the Altea XL, the visual enhancements on the new freetrack include protective moulding below the waistline, as well as the specific plastic front and rear bumpers. These elements lend a rugged and robust image to the new model while also protecting the body when driving off-road.

The exterior stands out with new, exclusive design 17-inch wheels and larger diameter tyres. The Altea freetrack also has 40 mm more ground clearance than the Altea XL, making it easier for the new model to tackle any kind of terrain.

Top level performance

The Altea freetrack is available with four-wheel drive 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. Under normal use, power is fully transferred to the front wheels, with up to 50% being distributed to the rear wheels when the need arises.

One of the most outstanding features of the new Altea freetrack is its engine range, with performance levels that make the new SEAT model the market’s most dynamic family-sized SUV. A 200 hp 2.0 TFSI petrol and a 170 hp 2.0 TDI diesel engine are responsible for taking the Altea freetrack over all types of terrain.

The 2.0 TFSI engine enables the newcomer to reach a top speed of 214 km/h, with 0 to 100 km/h taking just 7.5 seconds – yet it can still average fuel consumption of 9.4 litres. On the other hand, the freetrack 2.0 TDI reaches a top speed of 204 km/h, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and consumes an average of 6.8 litres for every 100 km of driving.

Besides these performance figures, the new Altea freetrack matches the Altea XL in terms of impressive interior space and generous load capacity. With its 593 litre boot, the freetrack can carry everything needed for the entire family’s hobbies and leisure activities.

The rear seats are exceptionally roomy and flexible, as they can slide back by up to 16 centimetres for added legroom while still allowing more than enough boot space.

Multimedia system as standard

The Altea freetrack will be sold with just one trim level featuring a complete set of standard equipment.

The most outstanding feature is a new multimedia system, which comprises a 7-inch TFT screen hinged on the ceiling and an RCA connection that allows connection to a DVD player, videogames, laptops and even MP3 players. This way the sound is transmitted over the car’s own sound system.

The Altea freetrack also features new rear window shades as standard, that are hidden inside the doors when not in use, leaving the view unobstructed for rear seat passengers.

Further standard-fit elements on the Altea freetrack include dual climatise control, rain sensor wipers, light sensor, parking sensors, cruise control, trip computer, plus CD MP3 radio and steering wheel mounted controls, among others. Safety highlights include standard ESP (Electronic Stability Control), six airbags, EPS electro-mechanical steering and tyre pressure warning.

Designed, developed and manufactured in Spain

The new Altea freetrack has been wholly designed and developed at the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell, where over 1,000 highly qualified staff work daily to develop new models.

It will be exclusively made at the SEAT facilities in Martorell, one of Europe’s most modern and most flexible automotive factories, where the Ibiza, Córdoba, Altea, Altea XL, Toledo and León models are also produced.

Technorati: Seat+Altea+freetrack, cars, Carscoop, blogs, wallpaper