SEAT is tantalising those visiting its Geneva Motor Show stand this year with a dramatic concept that points the way to a future production car: the Altea Freetrack Prototype. Far from being a mere styling exercise for the Technical Centre in Martorell, the concept gives a preview of the design and technological innovations of the Altea Freetrack, destined to arrive in the near future.
The Freetrack Prototype is 185 mm higher than the Altea XL on which it is based, which results in impressive approach, departure and ramp breakover angles. These features, combined with its full four-wheel-drive system, make the Freetrack Prototype a genuine off-roader.
The Altea Freetrack Prototype has an aggressive look that reflects its adventurous character, and yet it retains the dynamic look that is expected of the Spanish brand. Moving inside, the model’s 2+2 layout and racing-style bucket seats are the most eye-catching details. In addition, there is a storage area situated between the rear seats, incorporating two practical foldaway trays.
Power comes from SEAT’s 240 PS 2.0 T FSI engine, which recently debuted in the new Leon Cupra, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox. With this potent engine, the Freetrack Prototype is a car that can satisfy many demands: it has the loading capacity and interior space of a family vehicle, the technology and capability of a 4×4, and the thrills and performance of a sports car.
The principal change is a chassis with 310 mm of ground clearance. The Altea Freetrack Prototype measures 1,766 mm in total, making its angles of approach and departure and its ramp breakover angle those of a true off-roader: 26°, 29° and 23° respectively. The model’s width has also been increased by 60 mm, mainly to accommodate the imposing 255/50 tyres mounted on 8J x 19” wheels.
Plastic side guards with aluminium inserts, which protect the body against knocks from rocks and other obstacles, leave no doubt as to the robust nature of the Altea Freetrack Prototype.
At the front, there is an attention-grabbing exclusive bumper with square grille air intakes, a new feature compared with recent SEAT design. The bumper itself is totally smooth with no moulding or edges, while the lower section incorporates two LED fog lights with aluminium casings.
At the rear of the vehicle, the standout feature is the spare wheel which is fitted into the hatchback, covered with trim bearing the SEAT logo. Two triangular-shaped tailpipes integrated into the bumper also catch the eye, while the tail lights are made with transparent glass.
Viewed side on, the impressive five-spoke 19” wheels really demand attention. Plastic guards located on the lower part of the doors and over the wheelarches give the Altea Freetrack Prototype the undeniable air of a 4×4. A further noteworthy element are the door mirrors, featuring integral indicator lamps, which are located on the doors and not on the A-pillars.
The Altea Freetrack Prototype has been designed to enable customers to enjoy the great outdoors and access areas which are out of reach of most vehicles. A stunning panoramic tinted roof makes the most of the view, while also preventing too much sunlight from entering the cabin and overheating the interior. The luggage rack, exclusive to this model, is also located on the roof.
One feature that cannot be missed is the colour used for the concept: an exclusive matt white finish, developed exclusively for this prototype.
The interior is truly luxurious, with two-tone brown and white leather upholstery, individual bucket seats, and front seats that can be electronically adjusted.
The centre console really catches the eye. Two screens concentrate driving data in the upper section, including that for off-road driving, with air conditioning information in the lower section. The air vents are a new design, exclusive to Freetrack.
The 2.0 T FSI engine’s power is directed to the four wheels via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control, to ensure that the tractive force is distributed permanently in a progressive and precise manner.
As such, the Altea Freetrack Prototype represents the ideal solution for anyone who wants to explore the most challenging off-road terrain with the whole family, but is also looking for a high-performance car that allows them to enjoy on-road motoring to the full.
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