Friday, June 20, 2008

Seat Announces New EXEO B-Segment Sedan – Based on the new Ibiza?

SEAT announced today that it's planning to expand its vehicle line-up with the addition of an all-new B-Segment sedan model called the 'EXEO' that's scheduled to be launched in the European market in 2009.

We know that you might have read on other websites that this is the Spanish carmaker's long awaited previous generation Audi A4 based sedan, sketches of which were released last year, but unless SEAT officials made a booboo in their press release (it is possible), the B-Segment in Europe consists of cars like the Seat Ibiza, VW Polo, Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio and Fiat Grande Punto.

Moreover, the Spanish automaker was clear in last year's press release (see here) concerning the mid-size sedan that it belongs to the C/D segment (Skoda Octavia). So having that in mind, we're led to believe that the EXEO might be the spiritual successor to the Cordoba Sedan and if so, it will probably be based on the new SEAT Ibiza platform. Think we're right? -Press release after the jump

PRESS RELEASE

COMPETING IN THE B-SEGMENT

SEAT���s new saloon will be called ���EXEO���

In addition to the saloon, there will be a family version

To be wholly manufactured at the Martorell plant

SEAT���s new saloon car will be called ���EXEO���. Its market launch that is scheduled for 2009 marks a new highlight in the history of the Spanish brand, which is expanding its model range towards new segments. The SEAT EXEO is an elegant, dynamic saloon with high quality and outstanding technology that faithfully reflects SEAT���s personality ��� design, sportiness and liveliness.

The name EXEO is advanced, forceful and technological, which signals excellence and is highly suggestive of driving pleasure.

Faithful to SEAT���s Mediterranean roots, the new name stems from the Latin word ���Exire���, meaning ���to go beyond���, ���to go further���. The name differs from all the other range denominations, and indicates the beginning of a new period for the company, that takes the brand into an all new segment. The successful names of the models of the current range will be maintained.

The SEAT EXEO is a B-segment model which does not replace the SEAT Toledo.