SEAT to launch Mini-MPV - SEATCupra.net UK Exclusive

SEAT are set to launch a mini MPV next year according to reports in Europe. These sketches shown here exclusively on SEATCupra.net are based on photos of scale models which have recently surfaced. It is not clear if this is the final signed off shape.

http://www.seatcupra.net/images/SEAT%20 ... MPVdrg.jpg

The Mini MPV is based on the new VW Touran/Audi A3 floorpan. The VW Touran, launched earlier this year, is Volkswagen's rather conservative vision of a Mini MPV. SEAT have gone for the Sporty route and the suggestion is that this will be marketed as a Multi Sports Vehicle rather than the Multi-Purpose Vehicle. Its unclear if a Cupra model will be available, but the success of the Zafria GSi will not have gone unnoticed in Barcelona. The Mini-MPV is the fastest growing car sector in Europe and VW are one of the last big manufactures to have a presence in this now crowded class.



SEAT will be up against some stiff competition including the new Renault Scenic, Vauxhall/Opel Zafria, the Citroen Picasso, the new Ford Focus C-Max and the aforementioned VW. The styling of the vehicle is controversial, using the Salsa concept car as its inspiration this will be the first SEAT production car to utilise the new design language.

Large central grille, simplified headlamp silhouettes are joined by a sweeping crease starting at the headlamp, over the front wheelarch, which continues along the car to the rear wheelarch. This has already been previewed on the Salsa, Tango and Cupra GT concept cars.

http://www.seatcupra.net/images/genevam ... eneva3.jpg

This design language will feature on future SEAT's including the new Leon and Toledo, due in 2004. The SEAT is unusual in that it has a distinctive bonnet in side profile rather than the one box design of the Picasso or Scenic. The roof appears to be low for a Mini MPV and the rear has unusually small rear lights. All these details have been taken off the scale model photos. The softlines and the unusual window shape (if you ignore the new Mazda, or Toyota Corolla Verso!!!!) are an attempt to disguise its bulk.

http://www.seatcupra.net/images/necmoto ... csalsa.jpg

While the Leon and Toledo will adopt this new look, its thought that these vehicles will be more conventional in appearance. Most controversial would be appearnce of the reversed angle rear side window as seen on the MPV and the Salsa concept. It may work on a MPV or a 3 door (like the Salsa), but it could give a 5 door car an awkward look.

Whilst its unclear what trim levels and powerplants will be available, its thought that the new 2.0TDi (140bhp)and 2.0FSi (150bhp), seen in the Touran and A3 will be available in addition to a 1.9 TDi and 1.6 Petrol unit.

Sales are estimated to start in Europe at the end of this year, with a UK release for sometime in 2004

SEAT's new models
2004 - Mini MPV
2005 - Leon & Toledo replacement
2005/6 - Tango
Note: The Arosa and Alhambra are unlikely to be replaced.


andyb@seatcupra.net