SEAT to Release Crossover Arona in 2017

New SEAT Crossover

Following on from the release and sale of the Ateca, SEAT's only medium-sized SUV, they are preparing to bring a small crossover to market in 2017, based on the Ibiza platform, in the hopes of rivalling the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur. 

Confirmed at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the new small SUV is due to go on sale in mid-2017 and SEAT bosses have just officially released the name of the new car, which along with the Leon, Ibiza and Ateca will strengthen the brand.

SEAT Arona SUV

The car is set to be based on the smallest version of the VW Group's MQB platform technology and as such the new SUV's design could influence the next new generation of Ibiza hatchbacks which go on sale just before the Arona next year. At the moment all we have seen are spy shots of the car on the road and very heavily disguised they are too, but you can distinguish that the rear lights have been replicated from the Ateca and so too the shoulder line and roofline. As well as that the number plate has been moved to the boot lid on the exclusive photos and the rear lights have been turned upside down but apart from those elements it looks the same as the spy shots. The front end is more difficult to pick apart but judging from the chunky bumpers experts are presuming it will be a bit bulkier and pumped up and the ride height will be raised over the Ibiza to achieve its small SUV status.

SEAT Arona interior

Inside the layout will be presumably consistent with other SEATs including their individual dials and styling cues along with a host of connectivity options including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep up with the competition. SEAT has reported a profit after tax for the first time in 8 years after their turnover rose by 11% in 2015 to 8.3 billion euros, the highest figure in the company's history and double what it posted in 2009, which has enabled SEAT to invest in its new vehicle line-up. Including the cars that we already know about SEAT are planning to introduce a large SUV to their range too in their bid to rapidly expand their offering in order to compete effectively for market share. SEAT boss Luca De Meo confirmed that the Ibiza-based mini SUV will get pole position and will be built at the company's plant in Martorell near Barcelona, he said,

"This is excellent news for both the brand and our main factory. Since it is the fastest growing segment and represents a firm step to become the third pillar of the company, with the families of the Ibiza and Leon".

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