The SEAT Ateca has been given the sporty FR treatment, as well as a new 187bhp 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine to bring even more appeal to the popular compact SUV. SEAT has been on a roll lately, launching a barrage of new models and posting record profits. It seems with the Ateca, the company’s first foray into the SUV market, the Spanish manufacturer is finally growing into a profitable member of the VW group.
The new Ateca FR features body coloured bumpers and wheel-arch trim, aluminium highlights and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch options are available), the FR distinguishes itself from more rugged siblings as the sporty option. Chrome brightwork has been replaced for gloss black around the roof rails and window frames, while the grille receives the same treatment. LED front foglights also receive the FR touch.
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Inside SEAT continues the sporting theme, with new Alcantara clad sports seats, more aluminium trim on the door sills and pedals and a sporty perforated leather steering wheel - all unique to the FR. Full leather trim is optional. On the back of the Ateca’s already solid and practical interior, the new styling treatments should help lift the slightly dour demeanor of the other trim levels.
This persona change doesn’t just impact aesthetics though, as the FR brings with it the option of dynamic chassis control (ie. adaptive dampers) and dynamic steering to aid its already impressive on-road handling.
Full powertrain options have yet to be confirmed, but the FR will be offered with 148bhp and 187bhp 2.0-litre diesels, as well the 148bhp 1.4 turbo petrol and aforementioned 187bhp 2.0-litre. The new 2.0-litre will only be available with SEAT’s 4Drive four-wheel drive system and a DSG automatic gearbox, while other engines will get more choice.
Prices are also yet to be revealed, but expect them to sit just under the current range topping XCELLENCE models. The new Ateca FR will make its public debut at the Barcelona International Motor Show, which begins on May 11.
If 187bhp is not quite enough for you, SEAT has been spotted testing an even hotter Cupra version with what could be up to 300bhp from it’s Leon based 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. Till then though, the FR will have to be enough to satisfy your Spanish performance SUV itch.
