Preview: Seat Exeo ‘Estate’ to join sedan next year

Posted Mon Oct 20 2008 5:09 AM by Kenneth Hall

Seat Exeo Estate is based on the previous generation B7 Audi A4 Avant

The once cash-strapped Seat brand is on the verge of developing a range of new models, with no less than four different vehicles planned for production within the next three to four years. The launch of the Ibiza hatch in April was just the tip of the iceberg as the Spanish carmaker is now working on a new minicar and compact SUV, as well as the recently revealed Exeo Sedan.

We can also add to that list an Exeo wagon or ‘Estate,’ which is depicted in these latest computer generated renderings and is expected to arrive in Europe towards the end of next year.

Designed to go up against wagon variants of cars like the Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna and Alfa Romeo 159, the Exeo Estate is based on the previous generation B7 Audi A4 Avant and will be built at Seat's factory in Martorell, Spain. Not surprisingly, both the Exeo Sedan and Estate features chassis and mechanical components essentially identical to their Audi donor car, including four-link independent front suspension and trapezoidal rear suspension for solid driving dynamics.

At launch, it will be available with three petrol-engines ranging from 102hp (75kW) to 200hp (147kW), plus three common rail diesel engines ranging in power from 120hp (88kW) to 170hp (125kW). A range topping V6 model is expected to be added to the lineup soon after the Estate’s launch.

Entertainment and electronics features will include a navigation system, a new multi-function head unit with MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a sun roof with solar cells powering a ventilation system.