The new generation Seat Leon is already in testing
phase, but the Spanish automaker won’t unveil it just yet. Autocar reports that it
will be previewed by a concept car at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show in March. Not much is known about it for
now, but it’s expected to offer a first glimpse into some of the design
elements of the fourth generation Leon, and to highlight some of its
technologies.
Carscoops spy photographers have already caught the 2020
Seat Leon on camera, but due to the heavy camouflage, it’s nearly impossible to
make out its design details. However, the brand’s design chief, Alejandro
Mesonero-Romanos told the British publication that it will adopt a different
styling to set it further apart from its siblings within the Volkswagen Group.
The exterior of the all-new Seat Leon won’t be the
only major novelty, as the cabin is going through an extensive makeover of its
own. Previous reports indicate the adoption of the latest infotainment
technologies, which will include controls for the air conditioning and voice
commands, and will also support over-the-air updates.
Seat is using the MQB platform for the development
of the next Leon, albeit in an updated form. Thanks to the use of lightweight
materials, the car will go through a diet which, combined with new petrol and
diesel engines, will improve fuel
consumption.
A mild-hybrid powertrain with the 1.5-liter TSI is
believed to be part of the range, being joined further down the road by a
plug-in hybrid derivative. The latter should be able to travel for at least 50
km (31 miles) on zero emissions.
It’s unknown when Seat will pull the curtain for the
new Leon, but we might see it officially in the second half of 2019. The
five-door hatchback will probably be the first body style to be unveiled,
followed by the estate and a crossover-styled flavor with some plastic
cladding, increased ground clearance and longer suspension travel.
