Ateca SUV Joins the SEAT Range

The all-new Ateca will be built alongside the next-generation Škoda Yeti and is the first of three exciting new SUVs to come from the Spanish auto maker. It's predicted to be joined by a smaller Ibiza-based model, followed by a larger 7-seat range-topper.

Despite being based on the same platform as the VW Tiguan, the highly-anticipated Ateca is likely to be a fair bit cheaper. It's estimated that the range will kick off with a starting price of some £18,000.

A familiar Volkswagen Group engine choice will make its way into the new model. The entry-level 1.6 TDI will produce 113 bhp, with a 2.0 TDI available in 148 and 187 bhp guises. MPG figures range from 56-66, with the petrols coming in at 46-53. These include a 113 bhp 1.0 TSI and a 148 bhp 1.4 TSI, the latter being a four-cylinder engine that's able to cut off two in order to improve fuel economy.

Most buyers will opt for front-wheel-drive, but the option of all-wheel-drive will be available too, as well as manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

Outside, the Ateca's face is particularly SEAT, with its double grille. The headlights, borrowed from the Leon, are optionally available as full LEDs. The rear end's sharp creases takes some inspiration from the next-generation VW Tiguan, but work very well on this smaller SUV.

VW Tiguan

Inside, the dashboard is unmistakable Volkswagen Group. Luxury features such as an engine start button, an electronic parking brake and an optional 8-inch touchscreen point towards the future, but we still get everything we love from the current generation of SEATs. Full Link allows full smartphone integration, and wireless charging makes its debut into the SEAT brand.

Traffic Jam Assist takes full control of accelerating, braking and steering at "traffic jam speeds", whereas Emergency Assist ensures that the driver is awake by providing visual and acoustic reminders, followed if necessary by a pulse of braking. Should the driver not respond, the Ateca will slow itself down to a safe stop.

Other technologies that are halfway to autonomous driving include Active Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, a blind spot monitor, a camera system to aid in those tricky manoeuvring situations, and a system that warns of oncoming cars when reversing out of a blind parking space.

At 4.36 metres long, the Ateca is just under 14 cm longer than the Škoda Yeti, and 8cm shorter than the new Kia Sportage. Although all-wheel-drive models get a 25-litre decrease in boot capacity, front-wheel-drive models get a 510-litre loading space, putting it ahead of the Renault Kadjar with 472 litres and the Volvo XC60 with 495 litres. It looks to have a useable square opening making it a practical, useable space.

Kia Sportage

Named after a municipality in Aragón, Spain, the Ateca will be launched in the UK in September ready for the 66 plates, but buyers can register their interest as of tomorrow (11/02/16).