Seat Toledo Concept

If the ‘new’ Seat Toledo Concept appears familiar, that’s because it seems to be a duplicate of the Škoda MissionL which was first unveiled at last September’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, although it means the conservative Toledo Concept owes more stylistically to the Exeo (itself a rebadged previous-generation Audi A4) than more flamboyant Seat models such as the Leon.

Seat Toledo Concept (2012) Side
The Seat Toledo Concept...
Skoda MissionL Concept (2011) Side
...and last year's Škoda MissionL.

Its looks apparently represent a more sober design language which, according to Seat, is characterised by ‘a powerful and solid stance, with clear and precisely executed surfaces and lines.’ The result is a handsome car, but the continued use of Audi and Škoda cast-offs arguably dilutes Seat’s brand identity and ultimately questions the marque’s future.

Despite the suffix, the Toledo Concept is set to become a production reality, with sales due to begin in late 2012.

At 4.48 metres (14’ 8”) long, it’s just slightly shorter than potential rivals such as the Chevrolet Cruze Saloon, Škoda Octavia and Volkswagen Jetta. Although the proportions suggest that it’s a traditional three-box saloon with a separate luggage compartment, the Toledo Concept is in fact a practical hatchback that comes with folding rear seats and a cargo capacity of over 500 litres.

Speaking ahead of its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, Seat President James Muir 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.”

Seat Toledo Concept (2012) DashboardSeat Toledo Concept (2012) Front Side

Seat Toledo Concept (2012) Rear SideSeat Toledo Concept (2012) Interior

Related posts:
Five-door Seat Mii
Mii joins Up! and Citigo
Škoda MissionL concept

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