Posted on Wednesday 13 June 2007
Seat previously announced that it was developing two new C and D-segment models, a sporty mid-sized sedan and possibly a new estate. Now, Just-Auto is reporting that two additional models may eventuate, including an entry-level minicar and mid-sized soft-roader, which will help the Spanish carmaker reach its goal of doubling its sales by the end of the decade.
Final plans will be penciled in at meeting next week with 20 of its top managers expected to attend. However, neither of the cars will be given the green light until the end of the year, but sources are confident the cars will enter production by 2011.
The affordable minicar will be developed jointly with Skoda and VW and be based on an all-new design, which means it won’t be sharing any platforms with existing models. Expect several VW-Group engines including 1.2L three-cylinder variants and a 1.4L diesel as shared with the current Fabia.
As for the soft-roader, this will be a 4WD model designed to challenge cars like the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage. Mechanicals would likely be shared with the upcoming VW Tiguan but it’ll feature a sportier and funkier edge.