SEAT Toledo 2004-2009 Photos, engines & full specs

SEAT introduced the third generation of the Toledo in 2004, and it was a significant change in the nameplate's history since it wasn't a sedan anymore.

The first two generations of the Toledo were a fastback and then a sedan. For the third generation, though, Volkswagen decided to give it another try and made it an MPV. The Spanish company built it on top of the same Golf V platform that was shared with the likes of the Audi A3 and the sporty TT. But that didn't make the Toledo a sporty vehicle. Not at all.

From the outside, the rounded shapes and the sharp lines blended together in an ascending way, with a front fascia that featured the large, chromed badge of the automaker. From its sides, the sculptured door panels showed an arched line that connected the front and rear wheel arches. At the back, the carmaker made an unusual shape for the tailgate, which looked like it had a step on it. But that was the idea implemented by Walter da Silva, who ran Audi's design department at that time, and was also in charge of reshaping the look of the Spanish brand SEAT.

Inside, the Toledo offered plenty of space for five adult passengers. That was the advantage of a high roof and also the high-mounted seats. At the front, the bucket seats featured mild side bolstering, and between the occupants, there was a short center console that hosted the gear selector. At the back, the split-folding bench could accommodate three people.

Under the hood, SEAT installed a wide choice of engines ranging from a low-priced 1.6-liter gasoline engine to a punchy 2.0-liter turbo-diesel powerplant that provided up to 170 hp. Depending on the version, the carmaker added an automatic gearbox to the options list.