Spanish in origin, SEAT was brought into the Volkswagen Group in 1986 when the Group acquired a majority share in the Company. In 1990, SEAT became wholly owned by the Volkswagen Group.
Since the acquisition, SEAT has shown steady growth and development in European and other international markets.
In Europe SEAT sells about 450 000 cars a year and production is based at the Matorell plant on the outskirts of Barcelona
VW is to set up a totally separate, dedicated SEAT retail dealer network in key metropolitan areas around South Africa.
These dealers will sell three different SEAT model ranges.
Kicking off the range will be the all new SEAT Ibiza which offers normally aspirated and high powered turbo charged petrol and diesel engines, including a 118 KW TDI diesel engine and a 132 KW petrol engine.
The Ibiza will only be here at a later stage.
Next in line is the Leon that combines dynamic styling and high levels of performance and specification.
Designed by Walter de Silva (currently Head of Audi Group Design) and his team at the Technical Centre, Matorell, the body of the new SEAT Leon is characterised by a sense of sporty elegance.
This range will be offered with 2.0 FSI direct injection petrol technology as well as 2.0 TDI diesel. The top of the range FR model offers a 147 KW FSI turbo charged engine.
Completing the range will be the Altea, which is a mini MPV and like the Leon, this model will be available with FSI and TDI petrol and diesel engines.
Pricing - Ibiza:
Pricing - Leon:
Pricing - Altea
Wheels24 is currently attending the launch of the Altea and Leon - watch out for our driving impressions of these new cars.