SEAT Not Sitting Still After 10% Sales Gain in 2014

MADRID – Spanish small-car maker SEAT had a big year in 2014, when sales increased 10% year-over-year to 390,500 units.

Growth was led by the Leon brand, which saw deliveries jump 50% to 154,100 units, good for 39.4% of the Volkswagen subsidiary’s total volume. Since the launch of the last-generation Leon in 2012, sales have soared 116% and the brand has surpassed the Ibiza range as SEAT’s top seller.

SEAT sold 304,000 vehicles in Western Europe in 2014, up 11.3%, with Germany (84,600 units, up 10.4%), Spain (67,500, up 14.5%), and the U.K. (53,400, up 16.8%) being its major markets.

SEAT’s double-digit sales growth last year reflected “an excellent evolution built over two solid pillars, (the) Leon and Ibiza ranges,” CEO Juergen Stackmann says.

“Now, our goal is to consolidate growth. The SEAT range is going to grow and be renewed this year, starting with the models we already have, and others that we are preparing for the immediate future, (such) as the compact SUV that will arrive in 2016.”

That vehicle, however, will be assembled by Czech Republic automaker Skoda, another VW subsidiary that will market the model under its own brand.

Another new SEAT model arriving sooner is the Leon Cupra ST, which will debut at the Geneva auto show in March. It will feature two gasoline-powered 2.0L engines: one making 265 hp and capable of reaching 60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.1 seconds with an optional dual-clutch transmission and 6.2 seconds with the manual gearbox, and the other generating 280 hp and reaching 60 mph in 6.0 seconds with the optional DCT or 6.1 seconds with the manual.

The 280-hp mill achieves fuel economy of 35.1-35.6 mpg (6.6-6.7 L/100 km) and 154-157 g/km of carbon-dioxide emissions.

The Cupra ST introduces a differential lock in its front axle to improve traction and handling. The system uses a hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled multi-plate package. The maximum locking force is 1,180 lb.-ft. (1,600 Nm) of torque and in extreme cases, 100% of this torque can be sent to one wheel.

The differential lock is integrated into all the handling systems including electronic stability control. SEAT engineers say it not only improves traction but also eliminates torque steer and has no negative impact on steering feel.

The Cupra ST’s exterior is highlighted by full-LED headlamps, 19-in. wheels with a titanium paint finish, rear roof-edge spoiler, Cupra lettering on the brake calipers and black exterior mirror housings. Trim elements in the cockpit are a deep glossy black or classic chrome.