SEAT has lifted the wraps on its first SUV model, the Ateca, ahead of its public debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.
Based on the popular Leon hatchback, the Ateca is seen as marking the start of a new era for the Volkswagen-owned Spanish brand.
Its name, like most SEAT models, is derived from Spanish geography – in this case a village to the west of Zaragoza.
The Ateca’s promise is of techno treats alongside sharp design, driving fun and urban versatility – all attributes the family crossover will require to go head to head for sales with established rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage.
And as you can see from our pictures, there’s a real low-slung profile to the SEAT – on styling it’s a match for anything out there.
From launch the newcomer will be available in a wide range of variants, its choice of turbocharged TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines spanning a power band from 115PS to 190PS, with either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive, mated to manual or dual-clutch DSG transmissions.
Diesels start with a 1.6 TDI 115PS unit while the 2.0 TDI is available with 150 and 190PS and fuel consumption figures range from 56 to 66mpg. CO2 figures are from 112 to 131g/km.
The entry level petrol engine is the 1.0 TSI with 115PS, the 1.4 TSI comes with cylinder deactivation under partial load and produces 150PS.
The consumption and emissions figures for these engines are between 46 and 53mpg and CO2 from 112 to 131g/km.
Technology options extend from full-LED headlights to assistance systems like Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist, plus infotainment set-ups with eight-inch touchscreens and Full Link connectivity.
There are also puddle lights which illuminate the area below the doors, projecting the Ateca’s name onto the ground.
At 4.36 metres in length, the Ateca offers some of the best use of space in its area of the new car market, with a boot that holds 510 litres in its standard configuration or 485 litres in versions with all-wheel-drive.
Once the driver is in the car, a ring of light surrounding the start button pulsates like a heartbeat, Jaguar-style, indicating the Ateca is good to go.
And there’s also SEAT Drive Profile for adapting the car to the current driving situation, road conditions and personal tastes. Ateca XCELLENCE will top a trio of trim grades.
