2012 Seat Toledo Concept news, pictures, and information

Sophisticated design with sporty dynamics

At a length of 4.48 metres, the forthcoming SEAT Toledo is compact enough for city driving. With its spacious interior and generous luggage capacity, it is nevertheless well equipped for long journeys and family transportation needs. The wheelbase of 2.60 metres delivers plenty of room for five passengers.

The luggage compartment is equally generously proportioned, wîth impressive volume and boasting excellent usability. Although perhaps not apparent at first glance, the new Toledo possesses a large rear hatch for optimum loading. Finally, the folding rear seats facilitate an exceptionally long load length and give the Toledo a usability that is almost on par wîth that of an estate car.

'With the Toledo Concept, we are offering a very clear view of the next generation of our mid-range saloon. The new Toledo will be a true SEAT – perfect for the demands of everyday life, wîth the highest levels of quality and reliability,' says Dr. Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development. 'State-of-the-art technologies in terms of engines and chassis will deliver fun driving combined wîth outstanding efficiency and safety - reflecting the core values of our brand. The Toledo will be equipped wîth the very latest technology from the Volkswagen Group.'

The Design – a strong sporting character

SEAT Design is taking its characteristic design language to the next level wîth the Toledo Concept – and adding an extra portion of sophistication into the mix. From the very first glimpse, the close-to-production study cuts a fine figure wîth its stretched proportions, clean surfaces and sculpted edges. Neither one line too many nor too few – the Toledo is modern and forward-lòòking.

Powerful dynamics and a mature composure characterise the front end of the Toledo Concept. The SEAT grille wîth its honeycomb mesh retains its typical trapezoidal form, but wîth a very wide and low look. The same applies to the large air inlet beneath the bumper. The pentagonal form of the similarly broad front headlamps is one of the characteristic elements of the new SEAT model generation. Equally characteristic is the sophisticated detail design of the light units, wîth the chromed 'wing' between main headlamp and daytime running light. The broad rear lights also underscore the mature styling of the new SEAT saloon, while the entire rear end conveys the impression of quality and solidity wîth its few, simply drawn lines.

The side profile of the Toledo has a taut and dynamic look. A clean edge runs from the headlamps across the shoulders to the rear lights; the area around the sills has a simple, sculptural feel. The most important element, however, is the roofline. It carves an elegant arc all the way to the powerful breadth of the C-pillar, which emerges seamlessly from the rear side panel. The very flat angle of the rear windscreen underscores the coupé look. But nevertheless, the designers and engineers paid close attention to achieving a high degree of functionality. The large door cut-outs in the rear, too, ease entry and exit.

The interior of the Toledo Concept reflects the modern, clear lines of the exterior. The spatial feel is light and roomy. The cockpit conveys a feeling of ergonomic clarity, wîth the top of the dashboard seeming to float effortlessly above the air vents and trim elements. The instrument dials are just as clean in their design as the centre console housing the audio and climate controls. The light colouring of the interior, the sophisticated stitching of the leather seats and the leather cladding on the cockpit and doors emphasise the fine, premium character of the Toledo Concept.

'The Toledo Concept has a powerful character, is sophisticated and timeless – a true personality. These qualities are shared wîth the owners of previous generations of Toledo,' says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Head of SEAT Design. 'The Toledo is a unique combination of sculptural design which encompasses classic modern lines wîth subtle sporting overtones and outstanding everyday usability.'