Next Seat Cupra to be based on Bocanegra Concept

Posted Wed May 7 2008 8:23 AM by Ralph Hanson

The Seat Bocanegra Concept, which was unveiled at March’s Geneva Motor Show, was originally intended to create excitement for the upcoming Ibiza hatch that was revealed less than a month after. However, the striking concept proved so successful that the Spanish carmaker is now keen to build a production version of it.

According to Seat’s design director, Luc Donckerwolke, the positive reception at Geneva meant "there was no way Seat couldn't put the Bocanegra into production." AutoExpress is now reporting that design elements from the concept will make their way into a new flagship Cupra sports hatch based on the Ibiza and due next year. Some of the features that will likely carry over include the aggressive bodykit and panoramic glass sunroof.

Under the hood will be a twin-turbo 1.4L petrol engine with 180hp channeling power through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This will ensure it will be able to keep up with similar sporty hatches such as the Ford Focus ST and Renault Clio.

Seat is also looking to expand into the family segment by the end of this year and is tipped to release a new sports saloon based on the previous generation Audi A4. The new model is likely to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October and will be followed next year by a new wagon-crossover.

Seat Bocanegra Concept

2009 Seat Ibiza