Next-Gen SEAT Leon Gets New Interior, Hybrid Tech

Volkswagen AG’s SEAT unit will introduce a new instrument display and user interface next year with the redesigned Leon midsize car, Autocar reports.

The company, which has been developing the new system for about two years, brags that the technology is the “best infotainment” system in the market. CEO Luca de Meo says the user interface was rated higher than the system used in the Tesla Model X electric crossover vehicle during consumer clinics.

The system will be able to make over-the-air software updates. Tesla and several other carmakers already offer such capability, but the Leon will be the first Volkswagen Group model to do so, Autocar says.

The touchscreen will integrate traditional control buttons for the audio and climate and control systems. Voice actuation also will be available for many features. A second touchscreen will be optional.

In addition to a range of gasoline and diesel engines, SEAT is developing mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants of the Leon, according to Autocar. These will be brand’s first electrified vehicles. A stand-alone all-electric model is planned for 2020.

The current Leon was launched in 2012. The fourth-generation model will ride on VW Group’s MQB platform. Body styles are expected to include hatchback, wagon and crossover models, but development boss Matthias Rabe vows that the car will not be a “typical hatchback.”