Chevrolet Small Cars Go Big at SEMA

Chevrolet’s small cars have a big presence at the 2011 SEMA Show, with tricked-out Sonics and Cruzes showing off the personalization possibilities for a new generation of performance enthusiasts.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1. Designers took a turbocharged Sonic five-door and added concept Z-Spec accessories including ground effects, spoiler, grille and graphics package. The Torch Red exterior is finished off with concept Z-Spec 18-inch wheels. Inside, the Cobalt Red cabin features custom trimming, including perforated black suede seat inserts, a concept Z-Spec sport pedal kit, sport shift knob and a racing-style flat-bottom steering wheel.

Most of the show cars wear conceptual Z-Spec styling enhancements, which are being evaluated for production. Z-Spec is a line of performance, styling, and personalization accessories available at Chevy dealerships.

The Sonic went on sale this fall and the Cruze, while being in the U.S. market for only about a year, has become Chevrolet’s best-selling car and the top-selling compact car in the United States calendar year to date. Both cars offer available factory turbocharged powertrains – with the Sonic offering the only turbo engine in its class.

“The heritage of Chevrolet cars like the Corvette and Camaro is being expressed in smaller packages for the next generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global marketing and strategy for Chevrolet. “The Sonic and Cruze concepts demonstrate that performance comes in all shapes, sizes and displacements at Chevrolet.”

As the only factory turbocharged vehicle in its class and aggressive design, Sonic is ideal for customization and performance – and that’s exactly what the distinctive show cars demonstrate at SEMA. Here’s a quick look:

Sonic Z-Spec #1 – Designers took a turbocharged Sonic five-door and dressed it with concept Z-Spec accessories. They added Z-Spec ground effects, a spoiler, unique grille and graphics package – then finished it off with a Torch Red exterior and Z-Spec concept 18-inch wheels. Inside, the Cobalt Red cabin features custom trim, including perforated black suede seat inserts, a Z-Spec sport pedal kit, sport shift knob and a racing-style flat-bottom steering wheel. Additional upgrades include performance brakes with four-piston calipers, a new high-flow exhaust system and performance suspension parts.

Sonic Z-Spec #2 – The next Sonic concept – in Flat White with Torch Red accents – builds on concept Z-Spec accessories with a more aggressive ground effects package, unique grille, rear spoiler and graphics package. It rides on Z-Spec concept 18-inch wheels and also includes a re-trimmed interior with Z-Spec sport pedal kit, Z-Spec sport shift knob and a flat-bottom steering wheel. It also features custom racing seats with the Z-Spec logo. The factory powertrain features the 1.4L turbo engine and six-speed manual transmission. Performance upgrades include brakes with four-piston calipers, a high-flow exhaust system and suspension parts.

Sonic Z-Spec 4D Concept – The more formal look of the Sonic sedan lends itself to a touring car-style motif, which this Ashen Grey Metallic concept picks up with concept Z-Spec ground effects, rear spoiler, grille, “Chevrolet” graphics and larger Z-Spec concept 18-inch wheels. As with its five-door counterparts, this Sonic features a re-trimmed interior – in Dark Titanium with Cobalt Red accents – Z-Spec sport pedal kit, aluminum sport shift knob and a flat-bottom steering wheel (trimmed with Cobalt Red suede). The factory turbo 1.4L engine and six-speed manual transmission are complemented by performance upgrades that include four-piston caliper brakes, a high-flow exhaust system and suspension parts.

Sonic Dusk – The most subtle of the Sonic concepts is the Dusk. It features a Berlin Blue exterior, with a mild concept ground effects package, unique grille treatment and 18-inch concept wheels in dark Galvano Silver. Even the lights are tinted blue for a sophisticated statement. The Mojave leather interior has custom seat inserts, Z-Spec shift knob with satin chrome trim, Z-Spec sport pedals and accessory interior trim kit. The Sonic Dusk also features a suede-trimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel, custom audio system and brake and suspension upgrades.

Chevrolet is keeping a few super-secret Sonics under wraps until the SEMA show, each representing an even higher level of performance and personalization.

Cool Cruzes.
A pair of custom Cruze sedans demonstrates what is possible with conceptual accessories and a little creativity.

Cruze Z-Spec – Wearing concept Z-Spec ground effects, 18-inch custom wheels, an accessory spoiler and a high-flow grille, the Cruze Z-Spec has the looks and feel of a taut touring car. The exterior appearance of this Cruze is enhanced with a new stripe package that will be available soon, while on the inside are special seat inserts, a racing-style pedal kit, accessory shift knob and interior trim, as well as a new steering wheel.

Cruze Dusk – Complementing the Sonic Dusk concept, the Cruze Dusk suggests a more subtle and sophisticated approach to personalization, including a mild concept ground effects package, a unique grille treatment and dark-tinted wheels. The interior has custom seat inserts, along with an accessory shift knob, sport pedals, interior trim kit, a suede-trimmed steering wheel and a custom audio system.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1 interior.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1 interior.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1 interior.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #1 interior.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #2 concept. – in Flat White with Torch Red accents – builds on Z-Spec accessories with a more aggressive ground effects package, unique grille, rear spoiler and graphics package. It rides on Z-Spec concept 18-inch wheels and also includes a re-trimmed interior with Z-Spec sport pedal kit, Z-Spec sport shift knob and a flat-bottom steering wheel. It also features custom racing seats with the Z-Spec logo.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #2 concept.

2011 Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec #2 concept.

Mazda Takeri : 2011

Mazda's next-generation midsize sedan concept to debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.
Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the global premiere of the Mazda Takeri next-generation midsize sedan concept car at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show, which will run from December 3 through 11, 2011, at the Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center).

2011 Mazda Takeri.

The Mazda Takeri exploits Mazda's new design language, "Kodo - Soul of Motion", to bring a new level of strength and allure to sedan styling. The Takeri features the full array of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, including the efficient and powerful new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine, to deliver vigorous performance and a comfortable ride desired in a sedan. The combination of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and electric devices – such as Mazda's idling stop system, i-stop, and a new regenerative braking system – enable the Mazda Takeri to achieve excellent fuel economy.

Takeri provides a supremely comfortable ride feel, thanks to the satisfying power of SKYACTIV-D and new lightweight and aerodynamic technologies. It also features the i-stop idling stop system and Mazda's first regenerative braking system. The regenerative braking system efficiently converts kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration, stores it in capacitors and then uses it to power the vehicle's electric equipment, thereby reducing load on the engine and saving fuel. Thanks to these electric devices, the Mazda TAKERI achieves excellent fuel economy.

The regenerative braking system represents Step Two of Mazda's Building Block Strategy. After renewing existing technologies, such as engines and bodies, Step One of the Building Block Strategy is idling stop technology (i-stop), Step Two is regenerative braking technology, and Step Three is electric drive technology (hybrid, etc.).

*1 SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine, SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission, SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, SKYACTIV-BODY and SKYACTIV-CHASSIS.
*2 The Demio is available with SKYACTIV-G, the Axela is available with SKYACTIV-G and SKYACTIV-DRIVE.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri.

2011 Mazda Takeri interior.

2011 Mazda Takeri interior.

2011 Mazda Takeri interior.

2011 Mazda Takeri interior.

2011 Mazda Takeri cutaway.

Hyundai Veloster to Make its SEMA Show Debut

To showcase the performance capabilities and aftermarket potential of its innovative three-door coupe, Hyundai has teamed up with ARK Performance to transform Veloster into a sleek and sporty rally car.

Hyundai Veloster by ARK Performance to Make its 2011 SEMA Show Debut.

The ARK Performance Veloster will be unveiled at the 2011 SEMA Show with a custom twin-scroll turbocharger increasing its horsepower to 210HP and a bright green and flat gray paint scheme to give enthusiasts a glimpse at Veloster’s potential. ARK Performance’s Veloster will be shown in the Hyundai booth between November 1-4, 2011 among other modified Velosters and Genesis Coupes.

“The Hyundai Veloster is an ideal car for enthusiasts with its distinctive design and dynamic architecture,” said Ted Lee, owner, ARK Performance Inc. “At SEMA, our ARK Performance Veloster will bridge the realm between an affordable sports car and an extreme motor sports vehicle. From the first Tiburon, to the Genesis Coupe, and now with the Veloster, ARK Performance continues to uphold the torch as the pioneer of aftermarket performance manufacturing for Hyundai.”

The ARK Performance Hyundai Veloster will showcase mechanical, interior and exterior modifications including an open wheel concept with aggressive fenders and Nitto tires. ARK will also develop Veloster specific parts to showcase the tunability of the engine and vehicle exterior.

ARK Performance has planed numerous modifications to make this Veloster a must-see vehicle at this year’s SEMA Show.

Mechanical components ARK plans to customize include:
• ARK Turbo Charger and Intercooler System
• ARK Intercooler Piping System
• ARK Custom Oil Cooler
• ARK Turbo Manifold
• ARK Lightweight Pulley System
• ARK Six-Pot Big Brake Kit
• ARK Eight-Point Chromoly Rally Style Roll Cage
• ARK DTP Track Coilover System
• ARK Upper Strut and Front and Rear Sway Bar
• ARK Camber and Control Arms
• ARK GRIP Dual Exhaust
• ARK RSEPC Downpipes and Test Pipes

Interior enhancements include:
• JPM Coachworks Custom OEM Seats with Alcantara Interior
• JPM Coachworks Custom Alcantara Shift Boot
• JPM Coachworks Custom Alcantara Dashboard
• JPM Coachworks Custom Alcantara Headliner
• JPM Coachworks Custom Alcantara Doors and Visors
• JPM Coachworks Custom Floor Mats
• JPM Coachworks Custom Alcantara Audio Finish
• Image Dynamics Q450.4 Amplifiers
• Image Dynamics Q600.1 Amplifiers
• Image Dynamics XS65 Component Speakers
• Image Dynamics ID10D4 Subwoofers
• ARK Racing Pedals
• DSG Performance / Password JDM Shift Knob
• DSG Performance / SUN Automotive Eco
• DSG Performance / SUN Hyper Voltage System GT
• DSG Performance / SUN Automotive Gauss System
• DSG Performance / SUN Automotive Hot Inazma Pocket
• DSG Performance / SUN Automotive Hyper Ground System
• Jason Noren Fabrications Custom Rally Cage
• Adam Perry Custom Audio Setup

ARK Performance will also make moderate exterior modifications to the Veloster, including:
• ARK CFX Designs Front Lip
• ARK CFX Designs Side Skirt
• ARK CFX Designs Rear Bumper
• ARK SFX Designs Wide Front and Rear Fenders
• ARK CFX Designs Grille
• ARK SFX Rear Wing Mount
• OneEighty Custom Headlights
• OneEighty Custom Taillights
• OneEighty Custom Fog Lamps
• Rally Armor Custom Veloster Mud Flaps
• Rally Armor Custom Veloster Mounts
• DSG Performance / Password JDM Chromoly Lug Nuts
• Yokohama Advan RZ Gunmetal x5
• Nitto NT05 x5
• Beyond Autobody Custom Paint and Finish

ARK Performance.
The goal of ARK Performance Inc. is to become a leader in providing superior after­market solutions for a variety of vehicles. Showcasing our excellence through prod­uct demonstrations, ARK Performance currently leads the way in the automotive aftermarket. ARK Performance Inc. was founded fifteen years ago, and is now one of the largest manufacturing facilities in the Republic of Korea. Our primary objec­tives are to produce superior quality OEM and aftermarket automotive parts, while developing applications to contribute to the advancement of the automotive com­munity.

ARK has steadily achieved an increased market share. Our company has broad­ened its product line into performance exhaust systems, suspension, and CNC machined products that are currently being distributed to North America, the Middle East, and Asia. ARK Performance has received high marks for quality manufacturing, which is demonstrated by our ISO9001 and QS9000 certifications. This is the result of using the latest cutting-edge technology, and ultimately producing superior products. As our slogan suggests, the quality of our products directly contributes to the overall quality of performance. ARK Performance will continue to maintain its stance as a leader in quality, providing a satisfying experience for our customers.

Hyundai Veloster by ARK Performance to Make its 2011 SEMA Show Debut.

Hyundai Veloster by ARK Performance to Make its 2011 SEMA Show Debut.

Frankfurt: Volkswagen Up! – price announced

The German automaker Volkswagen has just announced the price for its newest city car, the Up! model, which is actually the successor of the popular Lupo. Originally presented at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show as a concept, this edition of the German event was the host of the production car, with Volkswagen going a step further and also announcing its price.

Being based on the MQB platform, a modular structure made to be used for future Polo, Golf or even Passat models, the Up! takes its power from the small 1.0 liter, three-cylinder engine, which is delivering 60 horsepower, but VW is also announcing a supercharged version which will have 75 HP, along with two new versions, an LPG and an electric vehicle.

Coming with two options for the transmission which can be either manual or automatic, along with the stop / start system, the Up!’s estimated fuel consumption is 4.2 liters / 100 km which in US terms means 56 mpg.

Volkswagen is offering its newest city car in three trim levels, starting with the “Take Up!”, going to “Move Up!” and ending with the top of the line “High Up!”, but the German automaker is also preparing two special versions, the Up! Black and Up! White.

Volkswagen says that its newest city car is priced at 9.850 euros ($13.519) for the entry level but didn’t announce when the Up! will be available for its future customers.

Frankfurt: 2012 SEAT Exeo & Exeo ST Review

SEAT’s executive class Exeo saloon and ST estate range is getting a new look, and some important new engineering upgrades.

2012 SEAT Exeo photo -

The revised Exeo ‘face’ with new bi-xenon headlights and stunning LED daytime running lights (standard on Sport, optional on SE), will make its public debut in the metal at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

2012 SEAT Exeo photo

The styling enhancements, boosted by smart new alloy wheel designs, further underline the high value Exeo range’s premium look, while upgrades to interior materials – including upgraded leather on the steering wheel and revised upholstery – create a matching premium feel.

2012 SEAT Exeo photo

Meanwhile, improvements to the high quality SEAT saloon and estate’s 2.0 TDI common rail powerplant now see emissions cut to as little as 129 g/km*. Economy is similarly improved, too, with the Exeo saloon now being capable of as much as 57.6 mpg* on the EU’s combined cycle.

The latest upgrades to the Exeo come hard on the heels of the arrival of a new gearbox option earlier this year, with the addition of a smooth, efficient Multitronic auto/sequential manual gearbox further underlining the luxurious SEAT’s executive appeal.

2012 SEAT Exeo photo

The Multitronic ‘box – with its CVT-based technology and stepped ‘changes’ – offers both full auto mode and the option of sequential shifts via the sporty, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Looking to 2012, the Exeo family is in for further upgrades with the addition for the first time of SEAT’s effortless Start/Stop technology on an Ecomotive model, which will help deliver even more fuel efficiency.

2012 SEAT Exeo photo

SEAT is targeting an ambitious CO2 figure of less than 120 g/km for the Start/Stop-equipped Exeo which will, of course, enhance its appeal to both environmentally-conscious private buyers and UK fleet managers who demand such low emissions levels from even their executive models.

The Exeo’s eye-catching styling changes, allied to SEAT’s ongoing commitment to improving quality while simultaneously cutting its cars’ emissions and improving fuel economy, are sure to generate further interest in the range – which is now the Spanish brand’s third best-seller in the UK behind the Ibiza supermini and sporty Leon five-door family hatch.

Acknowledging that the Exeo upgrades will boost both the emotional and rational appeal of the range, SEAT UK managing director Peter Wyhinny said: ‘The arrival of the Exeo marked SEAT’s debut in a new and hard-fought market segment, and the success of the fleet-friendly saloon and estate range is already clear.

Now, with this great new look and impressive engineering changes I’m sure the Exeo will draw the crowds to both our Frankfurt show stand and, in due course, our UK dealerships.’

2012 SEAT Exeo photo

The Exeo range, which is today offered with a choice of three frugal turbodiesels or one potent turbocharged petrol engine, is priced from £19,285.

Frankfurt: 2011 Volvo Concept You Review

The Volvo Car Corporation now takes the next bold step in the evolution of the company's upcoming large luxury sedan.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo -

The Concept You, revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, combines a sleek coupe-like exterior with a luxurious high-tech interior that keeps the driver in command via intuitive smart pad technology.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

The Concept You picks up where the Concept Universe, revealed at Auto Shanghai earlier this year, left off. It gives the global car buying public another exciting glimpse of the Volvo Car Corporation's future.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

With a full interior, Concept You allows luxury sedan customers to fully experience the craftsmanship and intuitive technology that will be the hallmark of future Volvos.
"The new Concept You roofline stretches all the way back to the tail lamps - creating that dynamic fastback look that is very much in vogue among European car buyers at the moment," says Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at the Volvo Car Corporation.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

Touch-control cockpit and pure craftsmanship
The luxurious interior of the Concept You features a blend of intuitive smart pad technology and first-class craftsmanship.

"The Concept You explores new territories in our search for the ultimate intuitive car that makes the owners manual a thing of the past. Smart phones and smart pads have brought mobile infotainment into a new era. Here, we use a number of touch-screens to replace buttons and controls in order to make the driver totally connected, totally in control. The technology also helps us to create a refreshingly uncluttered interior," explains Peter Horbury.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

The Concept You control centre consists of four main areas; a digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM), a head-up display on the windscreen, a touch-screen in the upper part of the centre console and a touch-screen between the two individual rear seats. The wood/leather steering wheel has aluminium and glass paddles with integrated touch-screens.

The touch-screen in the upper part of the centre console remains in sleeping mode until the driver looks at it. A hidden infrared camera registers the eye movements and information is displayed on the screen.

Another sensor registers hand movements and triggers the Infotainment system's control mode. The possibilities vary depending on whether the screen is approached by the driver or by the front passenger.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

"Certain functions, such as surfing the Web, are only accessible from the passenger side while the car is rolling. The technology knows who is the present operator and adapts itself automatically," says Peter Horbury.

The driver can "flip" data from the central touch-screen to the head-up display - and can exchange data with the rear passengers. A light guide in the free-floating centre console indicates file transfer.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

Unique air-powered sound system
The Infotainment system also integrates a high-end sound system from Alpine. It features the unique "FreshAir" subwoofer - a not yet released technology that uses the air outside the car to create the ultimate listening experience.

The sound system consists of small, optimised units that considerably cut weight - while still producing a better sound than today's systems.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

Comfortable and cultivated
The interior is dedicated to offer design-driven customers a comfortable, cultivated, Scandinavian inspired environment that is also user-focused and refreshingly uncomplicated. Every detail has been chosen with the customer experience in focus.

The interior is driver-orientated at the front and comfortably relaxed in the rear. The dynamic feel and dark colour scheme in the front seats fades seamlessly towards the rear until it fully transforms into a light rear seat haven of calmness.

The rear seat passengers are embraced by pure comfort, as if their favourite lounge were magically integrated into the car. The interior moulds into the rear seat and becomes part of the seating environment.

The Volvo Car Corporation has partnered with several other famous brands in order to create a genuine feeling of luxury with the right Scandinavian touch.

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

Leather, suede and suit fabric
The four individual seats, inspired by ultra-comfortable chairs, blend chrome-free leather from Bridge of Wear with Dinamica ecological suede. The off-black front seats have suede in the centre to create optimal grip. The soft beige rear seats are designed for pure comfort with leather in the centre and suede on the sides.

The Concept You design also integrates the luxury qualities of a tailor made suit into the car. The back of the front seats and the door panels feature exclusive Italian fabric and designs from Swedish fashion house Oscar Jacobson.

The designers have also been generous with large, handcrafted pieces of walnut - accompanied by leather panels, Dinamica suede roof lining and carefully chosen aluminium details.

Hand-tufted wool carpets
The wooden floor, which echoes Scandinavian homes, is covered with a specially designed hand-tufted carpet from world-famous Swedish brand Kasthall. Just like the rest of the interior it fades from dark in the front to light in the rear. The front texture has a sporty firmness, while the rear part of the carpet is luxuriously soft.

"The interior is full of classic forms, materials and textures, used with a twist to create a special contemporary luxury experience. It is exceptionally refined, yet with all the simplistic assets that make Volvo champions of the uncomplicated," explains Peter Horbury. He concludes:

"We are carving out a unique position among the luxury car makers with our special kind of Scandinavian Design. It will be unmatched in performance, technology and craftsmanship, but without superficiality or complication."

Inspiration from Georg Jensen
The Concept You is finished in a light blue, liquid metal paint from DuPont. The ventilated disc brakes are developed by Volvo's racing specialists Polestar.
The car's fast silhouette is emphasised by the 21-inch polished aluminium wheels with a twisted twin-spoke design and tyres from Pirelli (275/30/21).

Up front, the Concept You grille - which has a more classic appearance than the Concept Universe - features details with the same beautifully polished craftsmanship.
"The design of the wheels, the grille and details in the innovative headlamps have been inspired by the exquisite works of world-famous Danish design house Georg Jensen. Their precious items capture the essence of Scandinavian design. Uncluttered, organic surfaces and superb craftsmanship that radiate timeless luxury," says Peter Horbury. He adds:

"This eternal beauty of Georg Jensen design is what we are aiming for with the whole concept car. Just like the finest luxury goods, this design should feel handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time."

2011 Volvo Concept You photo

The dipped beam comes from LED lamps in four "ice blocks" on top of the high beam lights. The "ice blocks" are installed with the same technology that jewellers use for mounting precious stones.

2011 SEAT IBL concept Review

The 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show sees SEAT continue the exciting development of its design DNA with the world debut of the new SEAT IBL concept car.

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

At Frankfurt the Spanish brand’s unique design language is extended to a sports saloon concept with a dynamic, confident look. The SEAT IBL combines a clean, minimalist exterior with an innovative, premium interior that clearly conveys its quality and precision.

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A. said: ‘The IBL shows that sports saloons within the SEAT brand portfolio will play an important role in future. However, this concept car does not pre-empt a specific model, but rather shows the design philosophy we are applying to bring the unmistakable SEAT identity to a saloon car, too.’

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

He added: ‘The IBL is the perfect representation of SEAT brand values – with its distinctive look, its precision and its premium feel. Over the next few years, SEAT will embark upon a product offensive that will see the spirit of the IBL reflected in several series-production models.’

The IBL completes SEAT’s exciting series of concept cars that define the genetic design pool for the ongoing development of the sporty Spanish brand’s cars. Laying the groundwork was the highly acclaimed IBE compact electric sports coupé. The IBX that followed showcased the new DNA code of SEAT design in a completely different vehicle architecture – a crossover between SUV and sports coupé.

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

Dr Matthias Rabe, Vice-President of Research and Development at SEAT, said: ‘In SEAT’s Technical Centre (CTS) we have combined the latest technology that the Volkswagen Group offers with our design language to achieve products as exciting as the IBL.’

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

Hallmark SEAT interpretation of saloon and coupé

Now, with the IBL, SEAT is turning its attention to the reinterpretation of the sports saloon. With its powerful proportions derived from a generous wheelbase of 2.71 metres and an overall vehicle length of 4.67 metres – plus its flowing, dynamic roofline – it almost belongs in the four-door coupé category.

In any event, the SEAT IBL fits into a premium, individual lifestyle that sets great store by clarity and quality, technological excellence and precision dynamics.

Pure precision and a determinedly sporty character

After the IBE and the IBX, the new IBL concept car delivers a further, enticing, perspective on the continued development of SEAT design. The pure forms, precise lines and exact surfaces of the IBL depict the distinctive design language that not only sustains the modernity of the SEAT identity, but also clearly strengthens it.

Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, the new Head of SEAT Design, explained: ‘IBL is all about emotion. Love at first sight. But this first impression is something that is meant to last thanks to its timeless, elegant, design.’

Perfect crossover of saloon and sports coupé

As a further evolution of this new design strategy, the IBL also demonstrates how well it works when applied to a car in the upper medium class. The SEAT IBL is a crossover in the very best sense of the word – it combines the elegance, spaciousness and utility of a classic saloon with the athletic look and dynamic line of a powerful sports coupé.

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

The genetic pool for the next generation

‘The IBL was created from the unique design DNA that will prevail right across our next vehicle generation,’ says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos.

‘The IBL is certainly more than a saloon; it is the SEAT interpretation of a very sporty four-door. With it, we are also demonstrating that we can apply our elegant dynamics and our youthful character to a full-size vehicle concept, too, making it unique and unmistakable.’

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo

Based on powerful proportions

At 4.67 metres long and 1.85 metres wide, the SEAT IBL falls into the full-size saloon category. Its long wheelbase of 2.71 metres gives it short overhangs front and rear, and enables powerful proportions – the essential basis of every good design.

At the front, the IBL is distinguished by the familiar ‘arrow’ nose, the classic core element of SEAT design. The front end features the arrow form, with a clear centre line along the bonnet. The grille also bears the characteristic, five-sided arrow shape, expressed here in a very wide, flat form.

‘We are very satisfied with the result achieved. Under the skin of a sporty vehicle, the IBL offers a surprising degree of ergonomics with comfort and practicality, thanks to the use of the latest technologies in materials and processes,’ says Dr Rabe.

LED headlamps as light sculpture

The full LED headlamps are designed as sharp strokes: precise in their appearance and state-of-the-art in their function. The individual segments of this light sculpture fulfil the various lighting functions, ranging from a main beam with variable illumination, to indicators, to daytime running lights.

The air intakes low down on the front end take a fine, linear form. They are evocative of the design of an electronic circuit board, creating a visual connection to the zero local emissions electromobility that the IBL commands perfectly as a plug-in hybrid. The air intakes are designed in black and red and framed with fine chrome lines that emphasise both the vehicle’s breadth and its premium character.

‘Our engineers successfully combined the spectacular design of the head and tail lights fully integrated into the bodywork with innovative light functions,’ said Dr Rabe.

Muscular profile

The profile of the SEAT IBL is dominated by its mighty wheels – at a diameter of 20 inches and with a sophisticated design featuring single and double spokes, they are not only extremely sporty, but also pleasingly elegant.

Their stature is further emphasized by powerfully defined wheel arches – the entire car seems to grow towards its wheels with the extremely muscular flanks firmly fixed to the road. The dynamic line running the full length of the flanks and the chrome line around the greenhouse add taut visual length to the side view.

Details such as the small fold-out door handles and the aluminium feet of the exterior mirrors bear testament to the consistently minimalist approach. The SEAT IBL is form at its purest level, the essence of SEAT design.

Super-sharp lights on the clearly defined rear end

The same applies to the rear end of the IBL, too. The LED lights are also cut extremely sharply; with segments of the arc fulfilling the various light functions. The bumper is indicated by just a character line while a piece of chrome trim also serves to underscore the vehicle’s breadth, as does the finely sculpted rear diffuser.

Luxuriously sporty ambience

Clean, minimized to the essential, exceptionally precise and premium in its look-and-feel – this is the SEAT IBL interior philosophy. Innovative technology and perfect execution come together here to create an ambience of relaxed and luxurious sportiness. Light, matte leather dominates the surfaces and brings breadth and a lightweight feel to the generously proportioned interior of the four-seater. Contrast is offered by leather surfaces in clear, sporty black and trim elements in the rich red of the exterior paintwork. The form of the dashboard, which almost seems to hang suspended in space, further adds to the impression of lightness.

Complete cockpit beneath a curved glass surface

The cockpit is clearly oriented towards the driver. A one-piece, curved glass surface covers the complete instrument panel all the way to the secondary display in the centre of the cockpit. The main display behind the steering wheel is fully digital and can be programmed to suit the driver’s preferences. Information can be presented either in the form of classic analogue dials or as a digital readout.

Mr Mesonero-Romanos said: ‘The interior of IBL is in total harmony with its exterior design. It is definitely a place where you want to be, and to be seen.’

State-of-the-art, programmable information system

The information hierarchy and colour choice can be selected from three programmes – ‘Travel’ for relaxed driving, ‘Sport’ for concentrated driving fun or ‘Efficiency’ when the focus is on the fuel efficiency of the plug-in hybrid drive. The second display in the centre of the dashboard is dedicated to the extensive communications and information systems.

The navigation system, for example, incorporates data from Google Earth and real-time traffic information into its route recommendations. The information systems are operated intuitively via two touch pads integrated into the steering wheel spokes.

2011 SEAT IBL concept photo -

Draught-free air conditioning with perfect details

Particular attention has been paid to perfecting the car’s climate control technology – virtually the entire upper side of the cockpit is conceived as large-surface air vent, facilitating draught-free ventilation. Targeted air flow is handled via individual air channels, integrated into the displays. The air channels have been designed with precisely executed frames machined from solid aluminium. They stand as symbols for the passion with which even the tiniest detail on the SEAT IBL has been designed and executed.