SEAT’s 2nd addition to their SUV range has been revealed! Rivalling the likes of the Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur, their latest supermini will land in the crossover class.
Exterior Design
Whilst it looks distinctly like the Ibiza, the Arona is 8cm longer and 10cm higher with remarkably more space and a huge 400-lite boot, making it one of the most practical on the market. Sharp creases and angled LED headlights give it the signature feel that SEAT has brought to its latest models, whilst wheelarch protectors, side skirts, and chunky bumpers allow it to come into its own. There’s also a silver trim below the side windows that continues to the rear pillars engraved with an X to mark the crossover.
Customisation is a key feature with 68 combinations to choose from across the body paint and the ability to specify the roof in matching colour or grey, black, or orange.
Interior Design & Technology
On the inside, the dashboard is also similar to the Ibiza with brightly coloured trim options and sturdy materials, plus a touchscreen infotainment system ranging from 5.0-in to 8.0-in depending on spec. Being 2017, there’s an array of modern technology onboard such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink systems plus wireless phone charging, stop & start engines, Bluetooth, 2 USB ports and Aux connectivity. There’s also an optional Beats stereo upgrade that brings six premium speakers, a 300w, eight-channel amplifier, and a subwoofer for those looking to add something extra.
As with other SEAT models the Arona can be selected in a choice of trims ranging from Style, FR (to allow for more sporty driving, a dual-mode suspension, and 4 driving modes), or Xcellence (to allow for a more luxurious feel, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and upgraded interior materials), dependent on the preferred style of the driver.
Engines
Under the bonnet, there’s three turbocharged petrol engines to choose from and two diesels giving the customer plenty of choice:
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1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol, 94bhp
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1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol, 113bhp
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(FR Trim) 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol, 148bhp with cylinder deactivation to save on fuel and minimise emissions
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1.6-litre three-cylinder diesel, 94bhp (available in 5-speed manual or 7-speed DSG)
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1.6-litre three cylinder diesel, 113bhp
Safety
There’s no lack of attention to detail when it comes to safety on-board, as it comes packed with systems to make driving comfortable, enjoyable, and worry-free such as Automatic Cruise Control with front assist, a Fatigue Warning System, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, 6 Airbags, Rear Traffic Alert, and Self-Parking as an optional extra.
Price & Release
The Arona is expected to start from £15,000 for entry level models, with official figures sure to be on the cards at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September of this year. Make sure you look out for more news on our website and social channels, and of course for the new SEAT crossover to arrive in Lookers showrooms later this year.
