Photo: SEAT
Yes folks, we're at a point in our lives where a crossover SUV made by Spanish carmaker SEAT is very real. The first photo has been released today ahead of a conceptual debut in Geneva next week. We say concept, but it's actually pretty close to the real deal and will go into production in 2016.
This is actually the second attempt to tease the crossover, as in 2011, SEAT also showed the IBX concept in Geneva. This time, things like the grille, mirrors or headlights will be closer to the real deal.
Even though the model will share its MQB platform with the next Tiguan, the architectural approach will be completely different. The yet unnamed high-riding Leon will be more car-like and an emphasis will be placed on handling rather than offroad capabilities.
The engines that will be offered should all be shared with the Leon, while the all-wheel drive system is already being used by the Leon X-Perience, which has been available for a few months.
Because the SEAT factory in Spain is at full capacity already, production will actually take place in the Czech republic.
This might also be an attempt to throw us off to the real identity of the Leon's country cousin. Several reports in the past year stated it would be called "Tribu" and the names we mentioned above could just be trim levels or special editions.
UPDATE: SEAT Espana released a photo of the rear as well.
Even though the model will share its MQB platform with the next Tiguan, the architectural approach will be completely different. The yet unnamed high-riding Leon will be more car-like and an emphasis will be placed on handling rather than offroad capabilities.
The engines that will be offered should all be shared with the Leon, while the all-wheel drive system is already being used by the Leon X-Perience, which has been available for a few months.
Because the SEAT factory in Spain is at full capacity already, production will actually take place in the Czech republic.
IQRAN, IQNA, EROQA, TEQTA
After learning of the concept's imminent arrival, we immediately looked for the most recent trademarks registered by the Martorell automaker. Several patents were filed over the past few months and they all sound similar – IQRAN, IQNA, EROQA, TEQTA. The fact that they all use the letter Q could be an indication a name hasn't been chosen yet.This might also be an attempt to throw us off to the real identity of the Leon's country cousin. Several reports in the past year stated it would be called "Tribu" and the names we mentioned above could just be trim levels or special editions.
UPDATE: SEAT Espana released a photo of the rear as well.
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