SEAT Toledo Concept - Elegant Design with Sporty Dynamics. SEAT have previewed the fourth generation SEAT Toledo which they describe as a close-to-production study. The Toledo will go on display at the Geneva motor show next week, and SEAT have already revealed its due to go on sale before the end of 2012.  More info and pics after the link.

Introducing the new sleek hatchback, which like the Skoda Octavia mimics a saloon, SEAT is putting the emphasis on practicality and value for money combining the proportions of a classic saloon with sporty coupe-like styling.

Within its length of 4480mm, (165mm longer than the current Leon) the new Toledo aims to offer a generously proportioned interior for five people, and more than 500 litres with the seats up and the convenience of a large rear hatch and folding rear bench for extra space. 

The Toledo Concept’s exterior styling is a further development of the brands new design language and shares a close family resemblance to the Skoda MissionL concept shown at Frankfurt last year.

The SEAT grille with its honeycomb mesh retains its typical trapezoidal form, but with 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, with 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 with its simple lines.

The interior of the Toledo Concept is light and roomy, the instrument dials are uncluttered in their design as is the centre console housing the audio and climate controls. The leather interior with red stitching, gloss black details contrasted against light colours give the Toledo a premium feel seen in its more expensive VW cousins.

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

The Toledo is expected to go into production before the end of the year and it is rumoured SEAT aim to price the car at €13-14,000 in Spain, which suggests its price tag could be competitive when it arrives in the UK.

James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A. said: “The SEAT Toledo Concept illustrates our idea of the perfect mid-range saloon car. It is an excellent combination of emotional design, top-level usability and dynamic driving characteristics,”

“The subsequent production model, our new Toledo, will write a whole new success story with its clear SEAT identity, its excellent quality standard and exceptional value-for-money. Following the Mii family and the new Ibiza, the new Toledo marks the next wave in our model offensive and growth strategy.”

MORE IMAGES OF THE TOLEDO CONCEPT IN THE GALLERY - CLICK IMAGES BELOW

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