The new Exeo ST goes one step further in terms of practicality and interior functionality. With its family-size body and new rear hatch, load capacity has been greatly increased and loading itself is much easier. Furthermore, with the launch of the ST, the Exeo range has even more equipment, and new systems that improve on-board safety and comfort, strengthening the position of SEAT’s new model within the B segment.
New technologies
One of the main enhancements added to the equipment line-up of the Exeo range is the BOSE sound system with no fewer than ten precision speakers guaranteeing unbeatable acoustics within the passenger compartment to round off an attractive offer that includes several infotainment systems such as the efficient satellite navigation system, connections for iPod devices and USB slots located in the glove compartment.
Another outstanding new feature on the Exeo ST is the availability of the WIV variable maintenance system, which can considerably lengthen the time between service appointments and informs the driver on the distance remaining before the next visit. This system also warns the driver in the event the engine becomes low on oil or about brake wear, depending on how the car is driven.
With the introduction of the WIV system, the Exeo ST also adds the recommended gear function. Information is displayed on the instrument panel and indicates which of the six gears is the most suitable at any given time. The function provides greater driving comfort and improved efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and emissions levels.
The new Exeo ST’s looks are very similar to the four-door saloon. The only differences lay in the length of the body, which measures 4.666 metres, and the boot volume, of 442 litres, with significantly increased load capacity beyond that when the rear seats are folded down. Other elements that identify the new family version are the roof rails, which are handy for transporting bulkier items.
Characteristic SEAT features underline the sporty philosophy of the Exeo ST and enhance its dynamic looks with the Arrow Design at the front, the brand logo that doubles as a boot latch at the rear, and the side mirrors located on the door panels.
The chassis of the new Exeo also clearly bears the brand’s DNA. Both axles are equipped with a multi-link suspension system and ratings that provide sporty, dynamic performance.
Quality runs right through the new SEAT Exeo ST, making it the perfect partner for those who need a lot of room to travel with the whole family plus luggage, or for customers who require a car with ample cargo space to enjoy their hobbies and free time.
The addition of the new model to the company’s manufacturing line-up will greatly affect production processes in combination with the four-door version. A total of 15,000 square metres of facilities will be used to produce both cars, including an assembly line with the capacity to roll out 450 car bodies daily of the saloon and ST versions. The Shingijutsu system has been applied to deliver the highest productivity, which optimises all the processes in order to achieve the highest quality in the shortest time.
Uncharted territory
The arrival of the new SEAT Exeo ST signals the Spanish brand’s ambitious move to further broaden its sporty saloon range, as well as significantly increase SEAT’s presence in the B segment.
As with the saloon, the launch of the Exeo ST will not only attract new customers but will also allow current SEAT owners to step up to a better, larger model. It is expected that many of these new customers will hail from the “company car” sector, which makes up a significant percentage of sales in this segment.
Common rail Diesel engines
Like its saloon sibling, the new SEAT Exeo ST is available with state-of-the-art common rail Diesel engines. They deliver not only lower emissions levels but also better fuel consumption figures and lower noise levels. The launch will include the 143 and170 hp models, which will be joined by a further 120 hp model in September. They all feature an optimised DPF particulate filter, making them compliant with the strict EU5 emissions legislation that will become compulsory in 2011.
The petrol engine range contains three options: the 102 hp 1.6, the 150 hp 1.8 turbo and the direct injection 2.0 TSI that delivers 200 hp. All the petrol-powered models also comply with the EU5 emissions guidelines, further proof of the brand’s constant commitment to sustainable development.
The 143 hp Diesel engine version’s emissions measure just 149 g of CO2 per kilometre, rising to 153 g on the 170 hp model, while the figures for the 1.6 petrol engine are 179 g/km, 189 g/km on the 1.8 and 184 g/km on the 2.0 TSI. Five of the six available engines are turbo-charged, which results in better performance and lower fuel consumption and emissions figures.
All the engine choices are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic, sequential Multitronic system will be available in the 2.0 TSI before the end of the year.
Luxurious equipment
A close look at the new SEAT Exeo reveals a notable leap in quality, luxury and standard equipment. From its silhouette to its cosy interior and extensive range of features, luxury and comfort combine with the sportiness that is characteristic of the brand’s products.
There is a range of 14 body colours and six interior trim levels to choose from. The entry-level Reference version features seven airbags as standard, with two additional rear-seat thorax airbags optionally available across the entire range. The Reference version also features as standard dual zone climate control, ABS + TCS, ESP with EBA emergency braking, 16-inch steel rims, trip computer, front and rear power windows, heated electric door mirrors, fog lights, remote controlled central locking, CD radio with MP3, aux-in and four speakers, and Isofix anchoring points on the front passenger seat and rear window seats with the additional Top Tether, among others. For those looking for more, the Style and Sport versions are equipped with even more standard elements.
Furthermore, the Exeo ST is available with a latest-generation navigation system, a new infotainment system with several functions and connectivity options (MP3, IPOD, USB, Bluetooth), as well as a sunroof with solar cells that run the ventilation system that cools the interior while the car is parked in summer without running down the battery, as it feeds off solar energy.
DESIGN
The SEAT Exeo ST follows in the elegant tyre tracks of its saloon counterpart, since the brand’s sporty image coexists in perfect harmony with the segment it belongs to. SEAT’s new model combines an equal proportion of grace and sportiness.
The main exterior trait that no doubt defines the Exeo family version is its rear end, with a prominent new hatch featuring a broad opening that sets the Exeo ST apart. Beyond this, the rear window is broader and affords great visibility.
The car’s personality is also visible at the rear via the characteristic SEAT logo that doubles as a boot latch. The hatch structure is also an effective theft deterrent while the light clusters and bumper assembly, both in the single exhaust with twin pipes and the double exhaust - exclusive on the 200 hp 2.0 TSI version - enhance the car’s sporty rear looks.
The personality of the new Exeo is defined by its front end, with its heavy dose of the design language which made its debut on the Ibiza, called Arrow Design. The double headlights that stretch towards the sides of the body and the radiator grille with the prominent brand logo form a downward sloping line that has become SEAT’s new symbolic image. The sporty silhouette includes the chin spoiler, which also features air vents, and the fog lights.
If the Exeo ST exudes sportiness from the front end, a side view reveals its full-fledged elegance. A further characteristic is the side mirrors, located on the doors, which are a sporty identity trait of SEAT and improve streamlining at the same time. The alloy rims are also very eye-catching, and are available up to 18 inches combined with 225/40 tyres, as well as the new larger mouldings on the lower part of the doors on the Sport versions that enhance these cars’ sporty looks.
There are 14 body colours available from launch, which customers can combine as they like with any of the interior trim levels on offer, such as the outstanding Galia Blue custom colour. Furthermore, the Style trim features the chrome pack as standard (optional on Sport), which includes chrome window frames and roof rails, and shiny black B and C pillars, which on the Reference model are in matt black.
No room for improvement on the interior
A close look at the interior of the new SEAT Exeo ST reveals a profusion of quality-filled detailing that combines comfort, spaciousness and sportiness. As on the four-door saloon, only the best materials have been chosen and comfort has been painstakingly studied so that the brand’s sporty philosophy remains intact.
The seats on the new Exeo are everything that could be expected of a car in its segment. Their shape has been carefully studied and the firmness of each area has been defined in order to provide the greatest comfort, as well as good side support, on both the Sport and the standard versions.
The front seats are made of optimised structures on the backrests using the best materials with precisely the right thickness and ergonomics, and feature optimised headrests as standard to greatly reduce the effects of whiplash caused by low-speed rear collisions. The seat cushions and backrests have two different zones – the central part is plusher for greater comfort and the side zones are more firm for added support.
The driver seat on all versions is height adjustable, and this feature is included on the passenger seat on the Style and Sport versions as well as driver and passenger lumbar control. A new feature on the SEAT Exeo is the possibility of including electrically controlled front seats with driver seat position memory. This feature includes the additional function of seat slant control and the option of heating the adjustable front seats.
The rear backrest structures have three headrests and a three-point seatbelt in the middle. The split-folding rear seat can be folded one third or two thirds, and includes a safety lock as standard. The front and rear seats pass the strict front, side and rear collision tests with ease. Meanwhile, the L-shaped headrests provide greater rear vision without sacrificing either safety or comfort.
There are a total of six upholstery choices, including two luxurious leather options, with trim colours in grey, beige and black.
All the versions include two storage pouches as standard on the front seat backrests, with a storage drawer beneath the front seats. The rear seats include a spacious central armrest with storage compartment, which features a double cupholder from the Style version up. An optional extra is a practical ski bag.
The door panels are made with the same quality standards, and the soft foam elbow rests feature the most advanced Slush technology. To complete the cosy interior, all the pillars are lined with upholstery.
Highly ergonomic dashboard
The dashboard on the new Exeo ST is made with Slush technology, providing a high quality look and pleasant feel. Several colour combinations can be chosen for the cockpit. The dashboard and console come in black, while the colour of the lower dash area, depending on the trim level, is either black, grey or beige. The position of the radio and climate control buttons is ergonomically excellent. The five round ventilation nozzles have a chrome surround to make the interior yet more distinctive.
The easy-to-read instrument dials also have a chrome surround on the Style and Sport versions, and between them is the trip computer panel and the audio, navigation and climate control systems.
The dashboard features several storage drawers. In the upper area of the centre console there is a lined drawer with a lid that dampens noise, which is open on the Reference model. There is also a bottle holder, activated with the easy “push-push” system.
The spacious glove compartment can be specified with a cooler, to keep cans or bottles chilled when the outside temperature is high. The cooler comes as standard on the Style version in Spain. The glove compartment also contains the iPod or USB connections.
The central console design can be specified with an armrest. There is a button panel next to the handbrake that includes the tyre pressure control, aux-in connection and power socket or a cigarette lighter (the smokers’ package, standard on Style and Sport, includes ashtrays at the front and rear of the console). The basic gearknob comes with an imitation leather gaiter and single stitching, while the up-scale version is leather with a leather gaiter and double stitching in two colours.
Spacious boot
The Exeo ST features a spacious boot with a load capacity of 442 litres, and up to 882 litres when the rear seat backrests are folded, resulting in a completely flat area from the folded backrests to the rear hatch. The shape of the rear volume means objects can be loaded up to the ceiling, with 564 litres of space, or 1,354 litres when the rear seat backrests are folded.
SEAT’s new model has a roll-away load cover attached to the rear of the backrests that hides any contents from sight. Of the two versions available, one also includes a mesh curtain that separates the passenger compartment from the cargo space. This vertical curtain protects both cargo and passengers, and can be attached either behind the front or the rear seats.
The boot on the Exeo ST features quality craftsmanship and several small storage compartments. There is a mesh-covered recess on the left for small objects, and an optional elastic retainer on the right keeps objects in place.
All the versions are equipped with four hooks as standard to attach a mesh load cover. All these elements guarantee that the boot stays tidy. Furthermore, on the ST version, a 12-volt socket is installed on the right hand side of the load bay as standard for plugging in a cooler, for example.
The carpet lining the floor of the boot can be folded in three, leaving a broad plastic surface open to place objects that could otherwise dirty the carpet. The plastic floor has a lid that reveals the spare tyre and tool pouch.
Customers can also optionally choose a carpet with a rubber coating on one side that covers the entire surface of the boot even when the rear seats are folded. This carpet is useful when transporting dirty or wet objects, such as ski equipment or fishing or hunting gear, and is easily removed for cleaning.
To sum up, the characteristics of the boot on the Exeo ST mean that gear and equipment can be transported simply and easily.
Several interior trim choices
The interior trim can be chosen from a combination of six upholstery variations and three trim levels.
The Reference models are equipped with seat upholstery to match the cockpit combination in black-grey, while the Style models offer several other possibilities. The dashboard can be a combination of black-grey to match black leather or grey fabric upholstery, or a black-beige dashboard in combination with beige leather or beige fabric upholstery. Furthermore, the interior moulding choices are either synthetic wood or Vulcano grey aluminium.
The Sport trim level features an all-over black dashboard with black leather or fabric upholstery with Brillante black or Cristal black mouldings.
The Style version features an interior lighting package as standard which includes lights on the front armrest, the front and rear ashtrays, footwell lighting, lights on the door handles and when the doors are opened, and a dome light.
SAFETY AND STRUCTURE
SEAT has always been known for the safety of its vehicles, so the company’s new model clearly could not offer anything less. The Exeo is, therefore, a fine example of passenger, child and pedestrian protection. To begin with, the entire range is equipped with seven airbags as standard (on the Spanish market).
Both the Exeo saloon and in its family version are equipped with a two-stage front airbag and driver knee airbag (standard on the Spanish market). Additional protection is provided by head airbags and side thorax-pelvis airbags, with the option of thorax-pelvis airbags in the rear.
Numerous sensors
To ensure that all the passive safety systems work perfectly, the new SEAT Exeo is equipped with several strategically located sensors. There are two front sensors, which also feature a temperature detection system. Side collision pressure sensors are located on the front doors, and side collision acceleration sensors are on the rear wheel arches next to the rear doors. The entire sensor system is controlled by a terminal box located behind the engine.
Another element that provides great passive safety on the Exeo is the three-point seatbelts. The front seatbelts are equipped with an electric pre-tensioner and maximum load limiter, and the rear seatbelts feature the same load limiter system.
Child safety is another carefully studied aspect on SEAT’s new model. Both the passenger and rear window seats have Isofix anchoring points, with the Top Tether system also at the rear which prevents child seats from spinning in the event of a collision. On the Exeo ST, the Top Tether restraints are located on the backrest structure, and are visible and accessible at all times.
Highest level of pedestrian protection
Another aspect that has been painstakingly studied is pedestrian protection. The front end adds a lower beam and a collapsible bonnet hinge in the event of a collision; two elements that help the Exeo ST comply with stringent pedestrian protection legislation.
The parking sensors also contribute to pedestrian protection at low speeds. They are equipped at the rear as standard on Style (optional on Reference and Sport), and at the front as an option on Style and Sport.
The body has been thoroughly studied in crash tests, not only to guarantee the highest safety levels for passengers but also to be able to offer competitive repair rates.
And if passive safety on the new Exeo is outstanding, active safety measures feature all the available systems including ABS + TCS, ESP with EBA emergency braking and a secure chassis.
Newly designed rear hatch
With the intention of offering the highest quality at the lowest possible price, the Exeo ST features a newly designed rear hatch with fewer parts.
The door has been developed after thorough theoretical stamping simulation to include a single exterior panel. This panel is shaped in such a way that the top part provides the necessary streamlining without the need for an additional spoiler, further parts for its assembly, or the costs related to parts and labour.
In addition, the hatch on the Exeo ST features a system of gas-filled pistons for easy closing. The ideal location of these make it much easier to activate the moving parts.
Another feature on the new Exeo ST is the location of the emergency triangles on the inside door panel.
Modifications to the rear bumper
The rear bumper on the Exeo ST differs from the saloon version with a special top layer which satisfies the technical demands associated with manufacturing in line with recent developments on the latest SEAT models, which result in a considerable reduction in both weight and cost.
On the new version of the Exeo, due to the shape of the body and the broad top layer, the rear bumper has a greater surface area compared to its four-door counterpart. In order to avoid damaging the body paint when loading or unloading cargo, the SEAT Technical Centre has developed a protective moulding that prevents scraping. The moulding consists of two clip-on tracks that run the length of the bumper, thus removing the need for adhesives that add manufacturing cost.
Another SEAT development is the option of a pre-installed tow bar assembly on both the Exeo and the Exeo ST, which is indicative of greater perceived quality. Until now, customers asking for this would have to get the assembly done at a dealership.
Now, an opening has been stamped on the spoiler, which is covered with a flush lid. When the lid is removed, an interior casing fills the hollow. The lid features a system of hinges on the top with half-turn anchoring mechanisms for opening and closing.
Rigid, lightweight body
Top quality materials have been used for the body of the new SEAT Exeo ST. Almost half are high, very high and extremely high resistance steel. Laminated profile steel has also been used on the main reinforcements, which greatly improves the production process.
The chassis on the new Exeo is built with parts using material with different characteristics. The use of high resistance steel is extremely important, especially in load-bearing zones or for its energy-transferring function during crash tests. The intelligent distribution of material has been well-defined and thoroughly studied during the project stage thanks to the advanced computer simulation techniques and numerous crash tests. The structure’s efficiency is guaranteed in terms of rigidity and passive safety, with the lowest weight possible and the fewest number of parts to assemble.
Used on the latest SEAT models, laser technology has been applied on the Exeo on the joint between the roof and the sides, and the body features a considerable increase in the areas where resistance welding reinforced with structural adhesives has been used. This combination makes the joints solid, considerably improves structural rigidity and greatly reduces the “unbuttoning” effect of the welded parts during destruction testing and crash tests.
The use of cold laminated profile technology on the sill reinforcements provides guaranteed dimensional stability of the parts. Elasticity is low and consequently the behaviour of the parts is extremely stable. This reduces manufacturing time, and as it has been designed for use on both sides of the body, the number of parts to assemble is reduced.
The A pillar is designed to offer the highest possible rigidity with the most simplified structure made with the minimum number of parts to assemble, which all contributes to achieving weight reduction.
The bumpers are designed with polypropylene, a weight-reducing fibreglass, which also makes them more ecological and provide the highest pedestrian protection thanks to the integrated beam added at the bottom.
Solid, close-fitting doors
One of the aspects that contribute most to improving acoustics on the new SEAT Exeo ST are the doors. Their tight fit and double air-tightness provide great solidity. But the signature door mirrors are also fundamental; their aerodynamic teardrop shape has been thoroughly developed to greatly reduce wind resistance, and its assembly on the door with high resistance steel results in minimum vibration.
The bonnet and boot lid not only also close tightly, but bear the new Exeo’s identity traits with the Arrow Design at the front and boot latch at the rear, plus attention paid to anti-theft systems on both latches.
Outstanding thermal and acoustic insulation
The windscreen can be chosen with either standard or optional “Acoustic” version boasting heat reflecting or Dämmglas function. The Acoustic versions reduce interior noise by as much as two to four decibels, while the heat reflecting function lowers the inside temperature by five to seven degrees, and about ten degrees in the dashboard zone.
Furthermore, the two types of sunroof also contribute to lowering the inside temperature. The first features tinted safety glass with solar protection, while the more advanced roof includes an integrated solar cell system that harnesses solar energy to cool the interior of the car even when the engine is turned off in summer.
CHASSIS
Despite its dimensions and family orientation, the new model’s brilliant chassis performance provides a much more sporty and engaging driving experience than the rest of its rivals in this category.
When developing the new Exeo, the Agile Chassis concept was introduced to provide lively, energetic reactions in line with the performance of the rest of the SEAT range. To improve its agility, work has been done on the tyres, the springs and anti-roll bars, and the shock absorber ratings. The result is an extremely sporty vehicle, but with the driving comfort required of a car in this segment.
Greater performance with multi-link suspension
The new Exeo is equipped with a multi-link assembly at the front made up of two pairs of arms with double ball-joint on both pairs, giving a total of four suspension ball-joints per wheel, in addition to the ones associated with the steering. This system allows better slip angle and wheel camber control, limiting its variation along the combined suspension and steering movement, resulting in better tyre grip in any wheel position. The result is greater resistance and linear stability on bumpy roads and fewer jolts to the steering wheel, as well as smoother braking in curves and greater driving comfort.
At the back, there’s an advanced multi-link system in which the robust lower aluminium wishbone carries out the functions of the traditional lower arms. In this way, the accumulation of assembly and adjustment tolerances is restricted resulting in less variation in controlling slip angle and camber.
On all versions the front and rear springs feature T-Shape technology on the piston seals, which reduces the already low piston displacement flow leaks, resulting in greater suspension ratings and enhanced comfort.
Furthermore, the Sport version shock absorbers are equipped with DSI valve technology, which allows for optimising the adjustment possibilities of a specific rating. The practical result is greater comfort despite the stiffer settings associated with these versions.
Intelligent steering
Some of the versions of the new SEAT Exeo will feature the Servotronic steering system (standard on the 200 hp TSI and 170 hp TDI CR, and optional on the rest of the range except the 102 hp 1.6), where the degree of assistance depends on the car’s driving speed, providing the driver with more steering feel. Optimum assistance is given at low speeds, for example during parking, which makes manoeuvring easier. At higher speeds, an electronic sensor gradually reduces assistance, and the driver can control the car more precisely than with conventional power steering.
The new Exeo is also equipped with all the electronic systems available on the market, including ABS + TCS, and ESP with EBA emergency braking as standard across the entire range.
Moving on to the wheels, the Reference version is equipped with 16-inch steel rims. The Style models feature 16-inch alloy rims (17-inch rims on engines with an output greater than 170 hp), while the Sport versions have 17-inch rims. 18-inch alloy rims are optional on the entire range, as well as selected 16 and 17 inch rims according to trim level.
ENGINES
The Exeo range has added the new WIV variable maintenance system, which considerably lengthens the time between service appointments and keeps the driver informed about the distance remaining before the next service visit. This system also warns the driver in the event the engine runs low on oil or about brake wear, depending on how the car is driven.
The service interval forecast uses a logarithm on the instrument panel that constantly recalculates the service interval according to oil temperature, soot rate, fuel consumption per cylinder, oil consumption and time parameters. The instrument panel, the ignition terminal box and an oil level and temperature sensor housed in the oil sump all participate in making the WIV system work.
Thanks to the WIV system (Wartungs Intervall Verlängerung), up to two years or a maximum 30,000 kilometres can go by between service appointments, resulting in less work and lower maintenance costs.
Furthermore, other benefits provided by the WIV system are that fewer oil changes and less engine oil is required during the car’s working life.
With the introduction of the WIV system, the Exeo also adds the recommended gear function. Information is displayed on the instrument panel and indicates which of the six gears is the most suitable at all times. This function provides greater driving comfort and efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and emissions levels.
Three petrol and two common rail Diesel engines
The arrival of common rail Diesel engines of the new SEAT Exeo saloon and ST is an important advantage for the range. The launch includes five engine choices, three petrol and two Diesel, of which four are turbocharged. They all comply with forthcoming EU5 emissions legislation, making SEAT’s new car the first model in this segment whose entire range is EU5-compliant. All the models are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, although a 2.0 TSI engine with Multitronic automatic sequential gearbox and steering wheel shift paddles is in the pipeline.
The entry-level petrol engine is the 1.6. It has four cylinders with 1,595 cc and delivers 102 hp (75 kW) with maximum torque of 148 Nm at 3,800 rpm. It features a newly designed catalyst, and thanks to its six-speed gearbox delivers an average combined fuel consumption of 7.7 litres for every 100 kilometres, and 179 grammes of CO2 per kilometre. It is the only naturally aspirated model in the entire Exeo range.
The intermediate petrol engine is the 150 hp (110 kW) 1.8 turbo. It is equipped with a turbo intercooler and delivers maximum torque of 220 Nm at 1,800 rpm. Its average combined fuel consumption is 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres and its emissions level is 189 grammes of CO2.
The most powerful engine in the Exeo range is the 200 hp (147 kW) 2.0 TSI. This direct injection dual intercooler turbocharged four cylinder engine delivers a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 1,800 rpm, a fuel consumption figure of only 7.9 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions of 184 g/km.
All the new SEAT Exeo ST common rail Diesel engines share the 2.0-litre four cylinder engine basis of the Volkswagen Group, which deliver 120, 143 and 170 hp. They all feature piezoelectric injectors for faster injection, and the common rail system that enhances flexibility. The specially shaped pistons improve combustion, and pre-combustion has also been worked on. They are all equipped with a DPF particulate filter near the engine, which improves efficiency. A complete acoustics package has also been developed, where the engine cover and the counter rotating shaft considerably reduce engine noise.
The 120 hp (88 kW) version is arriving in September. In the meantime, the basic launch version features an output of 143 hp (105 kW) and maximum engine torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Its combined average fuel consumption is 5.7 litres for every 100 kilometres with emissions of 149 grammes of CO2 per kilometre.
The most powerful Diesel engine on the new Exeo delivers 170 hp (125 kW). This performance figure stems from greater turbo pressure and an enhanced water pump. It delivers a maximum engine torque of 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, and despite its considerable power, combined fuel consumption is only 5.9 litres for every 100 kilometres, with emission levels of 153 g of CO2 per kilometre.
ELECTRONICS
The new SEAT Exeo features the most advanced technology to enhance comfort and safety, with numerous systems that add to driving comfort and ease.
An important advance is the option of a new BOSE sound system, which guarantees impeccable acoustics inside the passenger compartment of both the Exeo and the Exeo ST. It is the first system created by BOSE for the Spanish brand, in collaboration with engineers from SEAT’s Technical Centre.
The system features no fewer than ten precision speakers. The main, medium-high frequency speaker measures five centimetres and is located on the instrument panel, and there are four speakers on the front and rear doors (two, 4cm tweeters and two, 16.5cm low-medium frequency speakers) that guarantee a balanced, healthy listening experience.
The low frequencies on the SEAT Exeo are produced by a 22.5cm bass speaker located near the rear window, while the bass speaker on the Exeo ST measures 13.5cm. Furthermore, the system’s amplifier includes the BOSE digital reception processor and five personalised equaliser channels.
The addition of the new BOSE sound system to the Exeo range will provide passengers with high quality, clear, natural sound.
Bi-xenon headlights with daytime driving lights + AFS
The new Exeo includes several attractive lighting solutions to increase road visibility. Besides halogen headlights, the Exeo can also be specified with a Bi-xenon system with daytime running lights, anticipating the legislation that will make daytime lights obligatory in 2011. It also includes the AFS Adaptive Frontlighting System, which greatly increases visibility in curves, where the car’s light beams sweep to match the steering wheel’s position and turning speed.
Interior lighting on SEAT’s new model can include door handle lights that help in the dark, lights in the front and rear ashtrays, front and rear door footwell lighting, dome lights when the doors are opened and a light on the armrest.
The boot can be opened by pressing the logo, or with the remote control on the key.
Complete alarm system
The remote control also activates the volumetric alarm and tilt sensor, although they can be deactivated manually by pressing a button located on the door. The tilt sensor sets off an alarm if the pre-set tilt angle is modified for a specific length of time. Rocking the car will not set off the alarm, but towing the car or an attempt to remove the wheels when the alarm is engaged will. The Exeo ST is also equipped with sensors in the recesses between the C and D pillars that detect possible break-ins through the rear windows.
The remote control also opens and closes the windows, closes the sunroof and memorises the temperature on the climate control and up to four positions of the seats and door mirrors. On the models equipped with this system the right door mirror has a kerb function, where the mirror reflects the ground when the car is in reverse for easier parking. When the thermal windscreen is activated, the mirror anti-fogging system is also automatically turned on. A further parking aid is the electronic ultrasound system.
The electric seat adjustment system has three functions. One button controls the seat length, height and rear/front height; a second moves the backrest and a third regulates the lumbar region.
Another new comfort feature on the Exeo is the electric sunroof equipped with solar cells. This sophisticated system keeps the passenger compartment cool on hot days by activating the ventilation system using solar energy rather than the car’s battery. The new car is also equipped with an air quality sensor that detects high concentrations of exhaust impurities and automatically connects the air recirculation function.
Intelligent instrument panel
The instrument panel features a Dot Matrix screen with red display and optional colour screen, as well as a photometric sensor that regulates the brightness of the dial display according to light conditions. The display indicates information related to the new variable maintenance system, any sudden tyre pressure loss due to punctures or gradual losses on one, two, three or all four tyres, and also indicates which tyre is affected by a puncture. If more than one tyre significantly loses pressure, the system displays a reminder to have them checked.
Last but not least, important features on the new SEAT Exeo ST are the hi-tech infotainment systems. The Adagio radio CD/MP3 provides listening pleasure through four or eight speakers, while the optional new BOSE sound system, with an antenna embedded in the rear window that transmits radio, telephone and GPS signals and replaces the traditional roof aerials.
Customers who choose the optional navigation system will enjoy one of the highest definition 6.5-inch colour TFT screens on the market. It has several configuration possibilities, including the location of petrol stations, motorway lane observance, and topography map display, among others. It comes complete with arrow buttons located in the centre of the instrument panel. The navigation system interacts with the radio, CD player, MP3, aux-in, double SD memory card slot and the mobile telephone system (through Bluetooth and voice control), as well as the iPod and USB connections located in the lockable glove compartment.
RANGE
The new SEAT Exeo ST will initially be available with three petrol engines – the 102 hp 1.6, 150 hp 1.8 and 200 hp 2.0 TSI, and two Diesel choices – the 143 and 170 hp 2.0 units equipped with DPF particulate filter and common rail technology.
They are all mated to a six-speed manual gearbox that fully complies with EU5 emissions legislation. The SEAT Exeo ST is available in three trim levels – Reference, Style and Sport. There are six different upholstery choices and 14 body colour options.
The brand’s new model offers a wide choice of standard equipment. The entry-level Reference comes with ABS + TCS, ESP with EBA emergency braking, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags and head side airbags, driver kneebag, passenger airbag disconnection, driver seatbelt warning, 16-inch steel rims, dual zone climate control, trip computer, front and rear power windows, electric heated door mirrors, fog lights, remote controlled central locking, storage drawers beneath the front seats, CD radio with aux-in, four speakers and Isofix anchoring points on the passenger and rear window seats, among others.
Complete list of optional equipment
The SEAT Exeo ST features a long list of optional equipment that significantly increases onboard comfort and safety.
The new car comes with such interesting options as the special Convenience (on Reference), Style Plus (on Style) and Sport Plus (on Sport) packages. The first one features multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth, manual driver and passenger seat height adjustment and front central armrest, while the second includes 17-inch light alloy rims, interior wood inserts, Bi-xenon headlights + AFS, headlight washers, daytime driving lights with assistant, Coming Home headlight function and Bluetooth.
The Sport Plus package is a further cut above with 18-inch light alloy rims, Bi-xenon headlights + AFS, daytime driving lights, Bluetooth and electrical package 1, which features park position door mirrors, rear parking sensor, rain sensing wipers, automatic lights on, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror, acoustic protection windscreen, green anti-glare windscreen stripe and Coming Home headlight function.
Besides the above-mentioned electrical package 1 (available as standard on Style and as an option on Reference and Sport), the electrical package 3 is available on Style and Sport and includes front parking sensor, air quality sensor and colour instrument panel screen.
The storage package is also available on the Exeo ST on all three trim levels, featuring an elastic retainer on the right side of the boot, as well as a ski bag.
The alloy rim choices on Reference include 16-inch Dante, 17-inch Modena and 18-inch Fénix; 17-inch alloy Modena and 18-inch alloy Fenix rims on Style; and 18-inch alloy Fenix rims on Sport.
[Source: SEAT]
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