SEAT's Baby Gets Fresh Face

Current SEAT Arosa

The Spanish firm's smallest car is to get a fresh face in time to go on sale in the new year, from ex-Alfa Romeo design chief Walter de'Silva. The new Arosa's is reminiscent of de'Silva's Salsa concept (see May WS), unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The current model, which was the basis for the Volkswagen Lupo, has been criticised for dull styling and a poor quality cabin.

Seat vows to give its cheapest model a dynamic image, with a beak-like nose incorporating the marque's trademark chrome grille and headlamps. The Arosa will borrow the Lupo's facia, but add alloy trim and brighter materials. The 50bhp, 1.0-litre engine will still power base cars, but a 1.4-litre 75bhp engine from the Polo will come as an option. The 16-valve 100bhp motor will continue in the Sport model for the time being, but is eventually to be replaced by the ultra-efficient FSi direct-injection petrol unit. There will be a new diesel, too: VW's 75bhp turbo will join the 60bhp, 1.7-litre normally aspirated unit. A fresh performance flagship will further SEAT's sporty image. The 120bhp, 1.6-litre model, likely to be badged Cupra, will use the engine from the Polo GTi.

SEAT Salsa Concept

all Volkswagen Group communications and photos reproduced with permission of Volkswagen UK