We were hoping the awkward-looking
Freetrack Prototipo SEAT unveiled
in Geneva was just a concept, but alas SEAT has decided to bring it to production. The new car, called the Altea Freetrack, made its world debut at the Barcelona Motor Show today.
Developed at the SEAT Technical Centre in Martorell, Spain, the Altea Freetrack boasts a Haldex-type four-wheel drive system and 40mm of extra ground clearance over the Altea XL on which it is based, making it the first SEAT designed for off-road use. The most obvious differentiating design features of the new car are its garish front and rear bumpers, which are linked to each other by a similar moulding that runs below the waistline. New and exclusive 17-inch alloys and larger diameter tyres complete the exterior transformation.
SEAT's newcomer comes with a choice of either a 2-litre TFSI petrol engine producing 197bhp or a 2-litre diesel powerplant good for 168bhp. The petrol unit is claimed to complete runs to 62mph from rest in 7.5 seconds and have a maximum speed of 133mph, while the diesel takes 8.7 seconds to 62mph from zero and reaches a top speed of 127mph. Fuel economy is 30mpg and 41.5mpg respectively, on the Combined Cycle. The Haldex-type transmission features a hydro-mechanical connection with electronic control that can transfer up to 50 per cent of its power to the rear wheels if the primary driven front wheels lose traction.
Inside, the Freetrack features a host of standard equipment, including a multimedia system comprising of a roof-mounted 7-inch screen with RCA connections to keep the kids occupied on longer journeys. Standard kit also includes dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, a trip computer, automatic headlights, rear window blinds and a CD MP3 stereo with steering-wheel mounted controls. Safety equipment includes ESP, six airbags and a tyre pressure warning system.
The new Altea Freetrack will be built at the SEAT Martorell factory and is scheduled to arrive in UK showrooms this September. Prices and specification details will be announced closer to the car's on-sale date.
Eric Gallina - 7 Jun 2007
