2003 SEAT Altea Prototipo

Spanish automaker SEAT will unveil the prototype for a new production model at the Frankfurt IAA in September. The Altea MSV (Multi Sport Vehicle) is planned for launch in 2004, offering a "lower, longer, wider" version of the compact monospace form, consistent with SEAT's more sporting ambitions. The Altea Prototipo combines 2+2 seating (four individual seats), an aerodynamic silhouette and a compact, lowered five-door chassis, with detailing such as the large 19 inch rims with low profile tyres, and large brakes visible through the wheel spokes.

The Altea Prototipo is a fully running vehicle, incorporating SEAT’s first gasoline direct injection engine. The 2.0 FSI's 150 PS output is transmitted to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic and sequential Tiptronic gearbox. The chassis features the efficient "Agile Chassis" or DSR (Dynamic Steering Response) developed by SEAT. Falling between typical 5- and 7-seat MPV's in length (4292 mm / 169"), the 2578 mm (101.5") wheelbase Altea is both wider (1812 mm / 71.3") and lower (1552 mm / 61.1") than current MPVs, with a silhouette closer to the seminal 1983 Mitsubishi Chariot.

The first SEAT product to be developed within the new Audi Brand Group created in early 2002, the Altea Prototipo gives an insight into the new look of SEAT’s future models. The front end features a large radiator grille that proudly displays the brand badge, and is highlighted by the cat’s eye-like headlamps. The side view clearly shows the dynamic line that flows downward over the doors to meet the rear wheel arches and will characterise all new SEAT models.