The SEAT Altea is coming soon
The SEAT Altea is coming soon. Only five months after its presentation as a prototype at the last Frankfurt Motor Show, it is now a reality. This model heralds a new generation of SEAT models, and is the first vehicle to be wholly developed within the Audi Brand Group since it was established in 2002.
The beginning of the new age for SEAT is based on three fundamental pillars - the well-known Ibiza and León, and the new Altea. This model spearheads a new vehicle concept within the range, the MSV (Multi Sports Vehicle), which adds innovative, suggestive styling to compact mono-space values as well as the underlying characteristic of all SEAT models - sporty character and handling.
The Altea possesses the stylish new traits of SEAT's models. The front end features a large radiator grille and expressive headlamps. The Dynamic Line is clearly visible from the side, starting at the front wheel arch and descending gracefully over the doors until the rear wheel. Highlighting the Altea's profile, this line was designed by Walter de'Silva, SEAT's Design director, and will be characteristic of all of SEAT's future production models.
Its design strength and sportiness are achieved through compact dimensions. It is 428 cm long, 177 cm wide and 157 cm high, giving exceptional roominess in all five seats. Its two-tiered boot has a capacity of over 400 litres.
The Altea features several novelties, including FSi technology, on an engine range of the latest generation, each delivering more than 100 hp output; a dual-clutch DSG gearbox, newly designed front suspension, multi-link rear axle, new electro-mechanical steering gear, individual driver and passenger air conditioning, and an exclusive SEAT development - wind-screen wiper blades camouflaged in the A pillar.
With the Altea, SEAT also takes a step forward in engine availability. The petrol range will be made up of the 150 hp (110 kW) 2.0 FSi and the 102 hp (75 kW) 1.6, while the diesel range will include the 140 hp (103 kW) 2.0 16V TDI and the 105 hp (77 kW) 1.9 TDI versions.
The two-litre FSi and TDI are the most powerful engines, and will be mated to a six-speed gearbox. The FSi will also be available with a six-speed automatic and sequential Tiptronic, whereas the new, six-speed sequential DSG gearbox will be available on the TDI.
The SEAT Altea features a comprehensive level of active safety with ABS, TCS and ESP with the built-in emergency braking system. Stability and exceptional road handling are guaranteed on a vehicle with these characteristics thanks to its new electro-mechanical power steering and a newly designed chassis, including the well-known Agile Chassis technology developed at SEAT's Martorell Technical Centre. A further SEAT breakthrough is the new arrangement of the rear disc brake callipers in front of the disc, greatly enhancing braking stability.
As far as passive safety is concerned, the Altea will be the first SEAT model to be sold in the EU equipped as standard with driver and passenger airbag, side airbag and head airbag, as well as three-point anchoring on all seatbelts, front seatbelts with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners and rear seats with the Isofix system for child seats.
This model will be manufactured exclusively at SEAT's Martorell factory and will have its world premiere at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show next March.
The Salsa, Salsa emoción, Tango and Altea Prototipo are four fascinating concept cars unveiled by SEAT at different motor shows in the last four years, and conform a stylish evolution that culminate in the road-ready Altea.
