With the annual Geneva Motor Show fast approaching – a little over a month away now – lots of glamorous new vehicles are making their way into the public eye. This, however, probably isn’t one of them. What we have here is a tidy little station wagon made by Volkswagen’s flamboyant Spanish cousin.

Following the three- and five-door hatchback models of the new SEAT Ibiza, the ST joins the family as the the third body style. It’s about seven inches longer than the hatchback, the bulk of the stretch hanging over the rear to provide a touch more versatility.

Otherwise, from the C-pillar forward (and ignoring some of the lowest-profile roof rails we’ve seen yet) it’s pretty much the same as the Ibiza we already know, with power coming from a range of engines (three gasoline and three common-rail diesels) with the growing implementation of direct injection and turbocharging for increased response and economy. Details in the press release after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE

SEAT Ibiza ST – compact dynamics with great usability

* Sporty estate is the third model in the Ibiza line-up
* Expressive design with plenty of load capacity
* Dynamic driving fun with high safety levels
* Six efficient engines, new 1.2 TDI and 1.2 TSI

With a World Premiere at the Geneva Motorshow, SEAT is pushing forward with its product offensive – the Ibiza ST is the third model to join the successful Spanish line-up. The compact estate car is the perfect vehicle for a youthful and sporty lifestyle, bringing together the brand’s most powerful characteristics – it is emotional and well-designed, it is dynamic and efficient, it is easy to use and financially attainable. SEAT will deliver the Ibiza ST in six modern engine variants and with a broad palette of equipment and technologies. Market launch is planned for early summer.

The stylists at SEAT Design have taken the highly functional concept of the Ibiza ST and clad it in the Spanish brand’s unique design language. Despite the estate layout and generous load capacity, it retains the youthful, sporty character of the Ibiza range. The roofline stretches rearwards, the rear overhang is integrated perfectly into the overall design and the tight span of its flanks lends tautness to its proportions. The front end bears the hallmark SEAT “arrow design”; with the rear end receiving a new look courtesy of the split rear light clusters.

With a length of 4.23 metres, the Ibiza ST is no less than 18 centimetres longer than the Ibiza. This creates ample load capacity to satisfy all the requirements of a sporty and mobile lifestyle. The base capacity of 430 litres is already comparatively generous, and can be increased in stages by folding the split rear seat. Engineers paid particularly close attention to the optimal width and low height of the load opening. Overall, the bodyshell is finished to the high levels of precision and stiffness characteristic of all SEAT models.

The interior of the Ibiza ST is impressively spacious, with an accomplished and high quality character. The designers and engineers paid close attention to the tiniest detail; every single element is functional, practical to use and meticulously crafted, as evidenced by the high material quality and tight tolerances. The cockpit feels taut. Circular air vents, a short gear stick – the emotional character expressed by the design of the Ibiza ST is clearly evident in the interior, too.

Sporty dynamics with a high degree of efficiency is par for the course for every SEAT. The basis for this is delivered by state-of-the-art engines, with the Ibiza ST offering a choice of three petrol and three TDI units with common-rail injection. Four of the six engines operate with direct injection and turbocharging. They span an output range of between 51 and 77 kW (70 to 105 hp). Particular highlights include the exceptionally efficient 1.2 TDI and 1.2 TSI.

Another guarantee of agility and dynamics comes from the precise and safe running gear. Together with the excellent equipment of the three model lines Reference, Style and Sport, as well as the broad range of hi-tech optional equipment – such as the dual-clutch transmission – this makes the Ibiza ST the one to beat in the small estate car segment. Especially as excellent value for money is an integral part of the youthful character that defines this kind of SEAT.

[Source:Autoblog]

Considering that Seat is supposed to be Volkswagen’s sporty cousin, the Spanish motor division’s range is conspicuously bereft of two-door models. Oh, they’ve got plenty of hatchbacks and MPVs, but the company only has two models with less than five doors. One’s a rebadged previous-gen Audi A4, and the other’s a Volkswagen Polo with a black mouth.

Building on the strength of their hot-hatch reputation, Seat unveiled the new Leon Cupra R in Frankfurt, packing the VW Scirocco R’s 265-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four to make it the most powerful road-going Seat ever made, and even matching the world-beating, competition-spec Leon touring car for output. Not too shabby, but still five doors, even if it looks more like two or three. But the latest reports from across the pond indicate that the company is planning a new coupe based on the Leon to serve as something of a halo car for the brand in the same way the Scirocco (also based on the same platform) does for its sister brand.

Of course Seat isn’t about to abandon its core market, and is planning a new Alhambra to challenge the Ford Galaxy in the European MPV market. A crossover/hatch based on the Tribu concept to rival the Nissan Qashqai is also in the works, as is a Seat version of the Volkswagen Up! But despite Spain’s famously sunny weather, the company isn’t planning any convertibles, citing the conspicuously poor market performance drop-tops carry in its domestic market.

In the meantime, Seat’s released a huge batch of images of the new Cupra R, which we’ve posted for your Euro-hot-hatch-loving enjoyment in the gallery below.

[Source:Autocar]

Buyers overseas aren’t left wanting for sport models from Volkswagen’s Spanish subsidiary, including the sporty FR line and the powerful Cupra range. But if the latest reports from our Iberian counterparts prove accurate, Seat could be preparing to launch an even more powerful version of its Golf-based Leon at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

Packing the same 265hp engine from the Volkswagen Scirocco R, the rumored Seat Leon Cupra R would also feature a dual-clutch gearbox, AP Racing brakes, a specially-tuned suspension and competition-style bucket seats inside, and the possible inclusion of Seat’s trick new XDS electronic differential. With the current range-topping, 240hp Leon Cupra sprinting to sixty in just 6.4 seconds and undercutting the Golf GTI by a good few hundred on the sticker, the 265hp Cupra R could prove to be a real barn-stormer.

[Source:Autoblog]

Variety, so they say, is the spice of life. So while American fans of Volkswagen’s hot hatches have nothing to complain about, none could be blamed for pining for the alternative options that the German auto group offers overseas. The company’s Spanish subsidiary Seat doesn’t sell stateside altogether, which is a bit of a shame, because Seats offer compelling packages with a bit more flavor than their VW counterparts, often with more power and at a lower cost, too. (Think Pontiac vs. Chevrolet with a bit more Mediterranean flavor and you’re halfway there.) Case in point the revised Leon Cupra and new Ibiza FR which the company will be unveiling next month at its home-market Barcelona Motor Show (which, incidentally, was evidently not canceled).

Although the Leon Cupra is ostensibly the same model as the one it replaces, Seat has added a few extra touches. Fortunately, the engines – 2.0-liter turbo fours in either 208 horsepower TSI trim (VeeDub-speak for gasoline turbo) or 168 hp TDI (turbo diesel) guise – carry over, but both are now mated to Seat’s new XDS electronic differential, and complimented by a series of adjustments to the exterior and interior styling. Outside, the front fascia is more aggressive, the rear bumper gets a faux-diffuser black insert, the side mirror housings are blacked out and the ride height has been dropped slightly. Inside everything’s all black and brushed aluminum. We had a chance to drive the Leon Cupra last year and found it to be a slick ride, if suffering slightly from torque steer that the e-diff should help clear up.

Joining the revised Leon Cupra is the FR version of its little brother, the Ibiza. Slotting in below the new top-of-the-line Ibiza Cupra, the FR offers a compelling package with the VW Group’s new 1.4-liter twincharger, packing both supercharger and turbocharger to deliver 148 hp, mated to a standard-equipment seven-speed DSG with paddle shifters. A host of electronic aids keeps everything in check, while the FR (Seat’s second-tier sport trim) benefits from a variety of sporty touches which you can read about more in the press release after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE

SEAT RELEASES FIRST DETAILS OF NEW LEON CUPRA AND IBIZA FR

SEAT is releasing first details of the forthcoming new Leon Cupra and Ibiza FR, two hot hatches that further strengthen the ’sporty’ gene which lies at the very core of the dynamic Spanish brand.

Both cars are set to make their world debuts at the Barcelona Motor Show (9 to 17 May), with UK sales commencing around July for the Leon Cupra and September for the Ibiza FR. Prices will be announced closer to their respective on-sale dates.

Cupra is the hottest badge in the SEAT hierarchy and therefore the 240 PS TSI Leon version will, as before, sit above the Leon FR models that have already been unveiled (which have a choice of 2.0 TDI CR 170 PS or 2.0 TSI 211 PS engines). Meanwhile, the Ibiza Cupra, which has already been previewed at the Paris Motor Show last year, will now be joined by this barely less swift FR TSI version.

New Leon Cupra – an even more appealing flagship

With the arrival of the 2009 version of the Leon, SEAT’s flagship now features even more dramatic looks thanks to several new design elements introduced both inside and out. Its eye-catching appearance makes it the perfect road-going reflection of the Leon that is making phenomenal strides in the WTCC World Touring Car Championship.

The most obvious enhancement is to the ‘face’, featuring bold vents beneath the honeycomb central grille, while the new bumper houses two further black highlights, one at each side, with the word ‘CUPRA’ immediately visible on the left.

At the back the drama continues, with prominent black moulding at the bumper’s base, a polished steel oval tailpipe and the characteristic model name emblazoned across the centre of the hatch.

A side look at the new Cupra reveals lower ground clearance compared with other Leon versions, making the car look and indeed feel more like a track car. Spectacular 18-inch alloy wheels and gloss black door mirror housings are also distinctive traits of this range-topping SEAT.

All interior elements are clad in black, reflecting customer tastes in the high-end hot hatch market. In addition, a leather-covered steering wheel with aluminium colour inserts and the ‘CUPRA’ logo at its flattened base is complemented by a matching gearknob. Adding further sportiness are aluminium pedals.

Special mention goes to the Leon Cupra’s seats, with their authentic racing-bucket styling, featuring integrated headrests and the ‘CUPRA’ logo proudly stitched into the backrests. These seats offer tremendous side support when dealing with high-speed corners, as well as more driving comfort. Attractive new black leather upholstery with white cross-stitching is now available as an option.

As with the previous version, the new Leon Cupra is equipped with a powerful 240 PS 2.0-litre TSI engine, providing emphatically strong performance along with impressive fuel economy figures. Top speed is 153 mph and the benchmark 0 to 62 mph sprint takes only 6.4 seconds, yet average combined fuel consumption is 34 mpg.

The new Leon Cupra features standard equipment such as the new XDS system (an electronic system which mimics the function of a mechanical limited slip differential), ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA emergency braking, low tyre-pressure warning, driver and passenger airbags, side airbag and head airbag, climate control, cornering foglights, trip computer, cruise control and sports suspension, among others.

New Ibiza FR – high-tech pocket rocket with razor sharp looks

The FR version of the new generation Ibiza introduces several technical highlights compared with the previous model, which combine to provide a more intense driving experience. First and foremost, the compact hot hatch is equipped with a state-of-the-art 150 PS twincharger 1.4 TSI engine. This means that this relatively small capacity powerplant is able to deliver big-engine performance through the fitment of both a supercharger and a turbocharger – a first in the supermini class.

Thanks to its latest generation technology, this engine provides greater flexibility, punchy performance and lower fuel consumption figures and emissions levels, while fully complying with EU5 emissions legislation.

The high-tech theme doesn’t stop there. The Ibiza FR’s powerful engine is mated to a latest generation seven-speed DSG gearbox with steering wheel shift paddles fitted as standard. As on the Cupra version, the gearbox has been developed with more driver-focussed software than on the 1.6 version of the Ibiza.

Furthermore, the addition of the XDS system provides greater driver confidence and safety. As with the Leon Cupra, this electronic system works together with ESP, improving the car’s performance when traction is lost by braking the wheel that loses grip.

The Ibiza FR benefits from its own styling enhancements quite separate to either the Ibiza Cupra or other models in the Ibiza range. Highlights include new bumpers that lend a purposeful appearance, featuring front honeycomb slats and a chrome surround for the central grille in combination with the Arrow Design concept. Other tell-tale exterior elements are silver-coloured door mirror cases, exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and twin tailpipes.

The interior also conveys the car’s racing nature with a specific instrument display carrying the ‘FR’ (which stands for Formula Racing) logo, a new steering wheel with built-in DSG shift paddles and the seat design, whose upholstery also heavily contributes to its sporty looks.

As far as standard equipment goes, SEAT’s new car is further equipped with ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Control, low tyre-pressure warning, driver and passenger airbags, head-chest airbag, trip computer, cruise control, climate control, sports suspension and cornering foglights, among other features.

[Source:Autoblog]

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.

[Source: AutoBlog]

While it sister company Audi continues to forge ahead in Le Mans-class racing under diesel power, the SEAT division is likewise launching an assault on the British Touring Car Championship with an oil-burning Leon TDI. The Spanish automaker is also launching a special edition Leon for the road to coincide with its competition counterpart’s race debut.

Mechanically, the limited-edition Leon FR550 is largely the same as the standard FR – one rung down on the SEAT performance ladder from the top-of-the-line Cupra – powered by the same two-liter turbodiesel on the Leon FR TDI. The details are what set the FR550 apart, carrying such touches as racing-style buckets seats, special badging, USB connectivity, 18-inch “Draco” alloys and a range of special colors. The turbodiesel Leon FR will hit sixty in 8.2 and return 39.2 mpg city/47 mpg highway. If they act fast enough, British customers can pick up one of the 550 examples of the FR550 being offered at a £400 premium over the standard version.

[Source: AutoBlog]

Every so often, we wish that Volkswagen’s SEAT brand was available here in the US. Sure, the Spanish automaker’s vehicles are badge-engineering exercises that raid the corporate partsbin for powertrains, switchgear, and the like, but their styling is unique and some of the packages have definite appeal.

Take, for instance, the just-announced UK-market Leon Cupra K¹. With the stylish Leon Cupra as its base, the K¹ adds an appearance package that is, to put it plainly, pretty bitchin’. Intended to make the car look more like the Cupra BTCC racers, the kit includes new front and rear treatments, side skirts, and a sweet-looking center-exit exhaust. We think the K¹ kit is actually better-looking than the BTCC bodywork. Like its standard-bodied counterpart, the K¹ gets power from a 240 PS (236 HP) version of VW’s 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder. That’s good enough to give the Cupra a top speed of 153 mph. Hot hatch, indeed.

[Source: AutoBlog]

Among Volkswagen subsidiaries, Skoda won’t be hogging all the attention at the Geneva auto show. While the Czech division will be showing its second-generation Superb flagship, Seat is tipped to be unveiling the replacement for its entry-level Ibiza hatchback at the Swiss show in March.

While other automakers oftentimes opt to show the sportier three-door version of their compact hatchbacks to garner more attention, the model Seat will show in Switzerland is expected to be the five-door hatch, while the three-door is anticipated to debut later in the year. Styling is expected to follow the lead of its Seat stable-mates, as seen in the renderings above and at right, courtesy of our compadres over at Autoblog Spanish.

The Seat Ibiza is the Spanish division’s bread-and-butter model and accounts for a whopping 40% of its sales worldwide, and with the current model Seat hopes to solidify its place in the Volkswagen hierarchy.

[Source: AutoBlog]

More news on the microcar front comes in the form of “confidential planning documents” procured by Automobilwoche outlining Volkswagen’s plan for its rear-wheel-drive compacts over the next nine years. VW considers the launch of its new “Small Family” lineup of RWD vehicles as the most important launch since the Beetle was fazed out in favor of the Golf in 1974.

Production of the new minicars will being in 2010, likely utilizing the Skoda plant in Vrchlabi, within the Czech Republic, with 100,000 vehicles destined for Europe sporting the Volkswagen badge, and another 100,000 wearing Skoda and Seat logos. Variants of the uber-compact three-door are expected to come in at about 3500mm long, sporting a price tag under €8,000, with a five-door version, stretched by 80mm and priced around €9,450.

[Source: Auto Blog]