Automobiles Review

Tag: Leon

  • Seat Leon Linea R- it keeps getting better

    The attractive SEAT León range has been extended with the arrival of the highly exclusive Línea R version. With its powerful, seductive image, this new trim level boosts the León’s sporty looks and the result is a unique, spectacular car whose appeal stems from its imposing design, specific detailing and efficient engine range. (more…)

  • Seat Altea Freetreack

    Seat Altea FreetreackAt the upcoming Barcelona Motor Show from 7 to 17 June, SEAT will be presenting its first all-road vehicle – the Altea freetrack. After unveiling the prototype version in Geneva, which hinted at the new model’s silhouette, the definitive version can be seen in Barcelona and goes on sale this summer.

    With this model, SEAT is making its debut in the SUV segment, an area of the market which has grown considerably in recent years. The new Altea freetrack is one of the few compact monospace cars on the market featuring clear off-road styling, as well as engines that deliver up to 200 hp. This factor proves the dynamic character of SEAT’s new all-road model, whose slogan “auto emoción” works just as well on- as well as off-road.

    Exclusive off-road looks

    Based on the Altea XL, the visual enhancements on the new freetrack include protective moulding below the waistline, as well as the specific plastic front and rear bumpers. These elements lend a rugged and robust image to the new model while also protecting the body when driving off-road.

    The exterior stands out with new, exclusive design 17-inch wheels and larger diameter tyres. The Altea freetrack also has 40 mm more ground clearance than the Altea XL, making it easier for the new model to tackle any kind of terrain.

    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack
    Seat Altea Freetreack

    Top level performance

    The Altea freetrack is available with four-wheel drive via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control, to ensure that the tractive force is distributed permanently in a progressive and precise manner. Under normal use, power is fully transferred to the front wheels, with up to 50% being distributed to the rear wheels when the need arises.

    One of the most outstanding features of the new Altea freetrack is its engine range, with performance levels that make the new SEAT model the market’s most dynamic family-sized SUV. A 200 hp 2.0 TFSI petrol and a 170 hp 2.0 TDI diesel engine are responsible for taking the Altea freetrack over all types of terrain.

    The 2.0 TFSI engine enables the newcomer to reach a top speed of 214 km/h, with 0 to 100 km/h taking just 7.5 seconds – yet it can still average fuel consumption of 9.4 litres. On the other hand, the freetrack 2.0 TDI reaches a top speed of 204 km/h, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds and consumes an average of 6.8 litres for every 100 km of driving.

    Besides these performance figures, the new Altea freetrack matches the Altea XL in terms of impressive interior space and generous load capacity. With its 593 litre boot, the freetrack can carry everything needed for the entire family’s hobbies and leisure activities.

    The rear seats are exceptionally roomy and flexible, as they can slide back by up to 16 centimetres for added legroom while still allowing more than enough boot space.

    Multimedia system as standard

    The Altea freetrack will be sold with just one trim level featuring a complete set of standard equipment.

    The most outstanding feature is a new multimedia system, which comprises a 7-inch TFT screen hinged on the ceiling and an RCA connection that allows connection to a DVD player, videogames, laptops and even MP3 players. This way the sound is transmitted over the car’s own sound system.

    The Altea freetrack also features new rear window shades as standard, that are hidden inside the doors when not in use, leaving the view unobstructed for rear seat passengers.

    Further standard-fit elements on the Altea freetrack include dual climatise control, rain sensor wipers, light sensor, parking sensors, cruise control, trip computer, plus CD MP3 radio and steering wheel mounted controls, among others. Safety highlights include standard ESP (Electronic Stability Control), six airbags, EPS electro-mechanical steering and tyre pressure warning.

    Designed, developed and manufactured in Spain

    The new Altea freetrack has been wholly designed and developed at the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell, where over 1,000 highly qualified staff work daily to develop new models.

    It will be exclusively made at the SEAT facilities in Martorell, one of Europe’s most modern and most flexible automotive factories, where the Ibiza, Córdoba, Altea, Altea XL, Toledo and León models are also produced.

  • JE Design Seat Leon Cupra

    2007 Je Design Seat Leon CupraFollowing modifications for the newly launched Leon FR, JE DESIGN German Leingarten tuners, well-known refiners for SEAT, now resolve to take on the Spanish in the completion of the „CUPRA”.

    While the “old” Seat Leon Cupra R (Typ 1M) has differed through its sporty and independent front and rear aprons from the Leon-vesions with less power, the new „CUPRA” threatens the driver into danger of confusion.

    The SEAT specialist JE DESIGN recognised this and offers help in form of an individualized grand entrance. Specially developed for the CUPRA from the Leingarten, Germany, based tuners, is a downforcer insert for the centre of the series-produced front apron and which at the same time minimizes buoyancy. The same function is fulfilled with a diffuser insert that is applied to the series-produced rear apron. More sportiness is procured through a new front grille minus Logo including grid insert. Headlight covers gives the Spanish car a serious glance.

    Sporty front spoiler corners complete with additional air channels provide the JE DESIGNed Leon CUPRA with more passing-lane prestige. The sides are optimised with a side sills set through JE DESIGN. The tuners create another attractive addition through the rear apron set. Last but not least a rear wing provides more downforce on the rear axle especially during higher speeds. Furthermore, a self-adhering JE DESIGN roof fin “Shark attack” is available in black matt.

    For an extra charge, JE DESIGN laminates individual parts for example the radiator grill or mirror cover in Carbon-Look.

    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra
    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra
    2007 Je Design Seat Leon Cupra

    Pure Performance!

    The core of modification is the performance increase of the 2.0 T-FSI Motor . Instead of just 177 kW (240 HP), it now renders an attention getting value of 210 kW (285 HP). The torque increases from 85 to 385 Nm. The change in motor management creates a better driving performance: 261 km/h top speed (series-produced: 247 km/h) and 5,9 seconds from 0 to 100 (series-produced: 6,4) placing pressure on many other sports cars. For that reason, JE DESIGN Leon „CUPRA” with its 250 km/h easily shakes off the electronic regular BMW M5 and Audi RS4. The power enhancement comes with TÜV parts endorsement. Included in the price is a 1-year guarantee on motor, transmission and gearbox. On request for additional price is the possibility to add a further year of guarantee.

    Whoever wants acustical improvement for their Leon CUPRA, can order a 4-pipe end exhaust made of stainless steel with chromed end pipes additionally. This promises not only a sonor sound, but also optimises the motor performance through optimized exhaust flow.

    JE DESIGN’s wheel expertise

    Four wheel sets are provided for customer choice. A highpoint offered in 18 and 19-inch is the complete wheel set „Multispoke” in chrome-look with the sizes of 8.0 x 19 ET 45 with tires 225/35 R 19 Y.

    Optionally, the complete wheel set „Multispoke” can be ordered in matt black with polished rim flange in dimensions 7.5 x 18″ ET 45 or 8 x 19″ ET 45.

    The Leon CUPRA of this press release – please take a look at the provided pictures (on CD) – rolls on wheel rims in sporty matt black with lacquered nearly complete white ring having a small gap tha includes the JE DESIGN logo.

    JE DESIGN concerns itself that the Seat Leon power doesn’t toss itself from the street. For this reason, a sporty spring set brings the Leon CUPRA approx. 30mm closer to the street, lowering the center of gravity for clearly improved handling and driving ability. Alternatively, the tuners offer a sportier driving performance through a coilover suspension that alters the fiery Spaniard providing a freedom from street between 35 and 65 mm.

    A further technical as well as optically pleasing configuration level of the CUPRA with over 300 HP in a wide body version is currently in preparation for a world exclusive presentation at the SEAT Event from 24 – 26 August 2007 at the Technik Museum in Speyer, Germany.

  • Je Design Seat Leon 1 P FR

    After JE DESIGN, a well-known SEAT customising specialist, tuned the new Leon two months prior to its market launch, the same tuning specialist from Leingarten, Germany, has now turned its attention to the “FR” version.

    The core of the modifications is the power boost to the 2.0 TDI engine. Instead of 125 kW (170 bhp), it now generates a solid 142 kW (193 bhp) with a torque increase from 85 to 410 Nm. The modifications to the engine management system permit better driving performance: A top speed of 224 km/h (series: 218 km/h) and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds (series: 8.2) send out a clear message! The power boost comes with a TÜV parts certificate. Needless to say, the TDI still complies with the EI regulations. An electronic power boost for the new 2.0 TFSI with 147 KW / 200 bhp leads to a terrific 180 kW (244 bhp) with a torque boost up to 355 Nm at 1,850 rpm. Here, too, the modifications to the engine management system permit enhanced driving performance: A top speed of 235 km/h (series: 229 km/h) and acceleration from 0 to 100 in 6.5 seconds (series: 7.3)! This power boost also comes with a TÜV parts certificate. In each case, the price includes a 1-year guarantee on the engine, drive train and gearbox. Upon request and subject to an extra charge, this can be extended by a further 12 months. A power boost for the new Leon CUPRA 2.0 TFSI with 176 KW / 240 bhp is in the pipeline. (more…)