VW T-Roc vs. SEAT Arona vs. Skoda Karoq

Let's admit it, ladies and gentlemen, the earth is now the planet of the SUVs because car companies love to make some money out of launching heavyweights no matter how big or small they are and when the more they keep launching SUVs, the more risk that the whole range will be out of the weight limit and resort of removing some in the lineup. In the Volkswagen Group, this is no exception to the rule as these three new compact SUVs continue to be part of this new automotive world order where SUVs are now part of the daily lifestyle.

2018 Volkswagen T-Roc

2018 Volkswagen T-Roc interior

Let's begin with Volkswagen's first-ever baby SUV, the T-Roc. Starting at just 20,390 Euros plus OTR costs, the T-Roc is Volkswagen's answer to bland baby crossovers such as the Nissan Juke and the Toyota C-HR and while it was basically pinned on the same bits and bobs from today's VW Polo, the T-Roc is no exception to the rule because while it may be an SUV, it's a crossover fit for every millennials' lifestyles. Of course, you might say that the exterior design is questionable because while the front looks very sporty indeed, the rearview looks like a Tetris piece, resulting in a questionable exterior no one saw it coming.

On the interior, it's not half bad especially when the dashboard is festooned with bits and bobs as experienced from the Audi like the instrumental panel which looks like it was heavily inspired from the Audi Virtual Cockpit, which makes it a Q2 on a budget and that's good for them. Apart from that, it's not bad to get cozy with and because it's not as leathery as a posh crossover, you don't get your full moon to experience the chilly torment in the event of cold temperatures and you'll have seconds to tuck your trousers back to its original condition. Not bad.

The T-Roc is offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines with the most powerful being the 2.0 TSi variant mated to a 7-speed DSG that produces a modest 190PS of power and 320Nm of torque, propelling from 0-100kph in 7.2 seconds and onwards to 216kph. Your Nissan Juke or Toyota C-HR doesn't stand a chance with the T-Roc, you know, because they can only do 180, which is the limit to all Japanese cars and that's it. So, while the performance of the T-Roc really upsets the Japanese, the dynamics aren't half bad for a crossover because it handles pretty much like today's Polo without all the hot fuzz. Sure, it may not be as sporty as it hoped for, it's perky to keep it afloat on the road. Also, when equipped with 4MOTION, it's not pretty half bad in the wet. In fact, this could have been your sister's crossover rather than the ones I've mentioned. Lastly, the T-Roc is offered with a wide array of safety features that will give drivers a more confident driving experience without worry.

The T-Roc may have a questionable exterior design but with some good parts binned on this jacked-up Polo, it wasn't really mediocre by SUV standards. In fact, you could consider it your first ride if you got a job and a driver's license. However, if you find the T-Roc is not your kind of crossover, consider this...

2018 Seat Arona

2018 Seat Arona interior

At first glance, it may look like today's SEAT Ibiza but this is not the Ibiza because what this is is its jacked-up cousin, the SEAT Arona. Starting at 14,100 Euros plus OTR, you can really afford one rather than the VW T-Roc I've mentioned but unlike the T-Roc, the Arona is basically an Ibiza with some added ground clearance on it and from every angle, you will notice the bits and bobs you saw on the said car, meaning those who are familiar with it shouldn't worry about how to deal with the Arona's conveniences in the same way they compare the Mazda CX-3 to its Demio cousin.

The most powerful version is the 1.5 TSI EVO FR variant with 150PS of power output and 250Nm of torque, resulting to a 0-100kph time of 8 seconds and onwards to 205kph, which is basically slower than the T-Roc. Also, the Arona is available only in front-wheel drive so you have no right to make it dirty because it was only limited to city use, which is kind of a shame really because while some crossovers try to look tougher, the lack of 4WD are the ideal equivalent of the whole Weenie Hut joke I saw from a children's show.

This brings on to the last item on this article which is somewhat the lesser of two evils...

2018 Skoda Karoq

2018 Skoda Karoq

This is the all-new Skoda Karoq, the replacement to the Yeti which a certain ape calls it the best SUV in the world because you can outrun a Ferrari on an unfinished track, more room to get out, more stable than the Range Rover, and the aircon that works well in extremely hot conditions. This then is somewhat the different article and for 529 900 Kč or 24,290 Euros, it's the most expensive of the three. On the plus side, it's more affordable than the Skoda Octavia Scout, which sounds questionable but flattering.

While this is the most expensive of the three, the Karoq features the best of both worlds, something the T-Roc and the Arona quake in their rear bumpers. It's got Kodiaq-style looks not bad for a baby crossover, it's got luxurious interior, it's got ample boot, and more importantly, a wide array of safety tech and dynamics that set them apart.

However, what's annoying about the Karoq is the leather seats which stings your butt when the temperature drops to near zero. Also, the most powerful offering produces the same amount that you get from the Arona but it's heavier and in a three-way drag race, the Karoq loses. That sounds like a bitter disappointment but when you're not in the mood to bother the T-Roc and the Arona, you will be thankful that the Karoq nails all of the right moves a midsize crossover should be. It's comfortable, it's tough, it's spacious, and above all, it's everything you wanted it to be on an SUV of that size.

So, there we are, in terms of fair value, the Arona is the best bet but in terms of doing all the things you want for an SUV, the Karoq is the best bet. The T-Roc may not be as valuable or capable as these two but it's got more features than the other two and picking the winner sounds challenging as it should be but you'll be the judge of that when you try these three.

Photo: Volkswagen/ SEAT S.A./Skoda Auto

Spain's King Felipe VI attends solidarity rally against terrorism

King Felipe VI of Spain is one of the hundreds of thousands of people in Barcelona who became part of that weekend's solidarity rally against Islamic extremists who killed 15 people in the twin attacks that plagued Spain last week.

He was the first Spanish sovereign to join a march since the monarchy was re-established after the death of the dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Since the 17th of August, 2017, a group of 12 Islamic extremists have been blamed for the twin attacks in and around the Spanish city of Barcelona, killing 15 people and left hundreds hurt. The Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Eight are confirmed dead while the remaining four have appeared in a court in Madrid.

King Felipe has reigned Spain three years since his father, King Juan Carlos I, abdicated.

URL: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-41063293

SEAT Ibiza (Typ KJ)

In the world currently flooding with crossovers, there are some city cars that exist for the sole purpose of satisfying today's millennials with its nimble handling, fuel efficiency, small sizing, and tech-savvy features fit enough to accommodate the urban landscape. Such example is the all-new, fifth-generation SEAT Ibiza, and it's time to investigate the latest regeneration of SEAT's compact hatchback that has been in the fray with the likes of the Ford Fiesta, Toyota Vitz, Kia Morning, or even the Opel/Vauxhall Corsa.

2018 Seat Ibiza

Even though Seat insists that this is the fifth-generation model, the all-new Ibiza looks pretty much the same as the previous model it replaces but despite its stale looks, what's underneath is all new and that's how it matters for the all-new Ibiza because like every car in the Volkswagen Group family, the new Ibiza utilizes on the MQB platform, resulting to a dramatic change in dimensions so it's now slightly shorter and wider than the previous model.

2018 Seat Ibiza interior

Even though the car's now slightly shorter than the previous model, the interior is surprisingly above average by compact standards but one thing you do want to watch out for on range-topping variants is the sat-nav system because the new Ibiza is just one of the many cars that declare war on buttons as well as physical media because with a touch-screen gadget with smartphone connectivity and other stuff in store, speedo boys are not safe from driving it because with this sat-nav, it's irreplaceable for the rest of its life and the trend that speedo boys fear of will keep on going in cars of today and the future.  That's the future, speedo boys, but looking back on the interior, the new Ibiza's a very accommodating hatchback indeed thanks to its class-leading interior dimensions and it's surprisingly spacious indeed because the boot space of 355 litres made it the most spacious in its class. That's about putting the interests of occupants first before everything else, am I right?

2018 Seat Ibiza

Because the new Ibiza is now sitting on the MQB A0 platform, which the next VW Polo will use, the new Ibiza feels as lively and high-spirited as any city car should be. In most variants like the range-topping Xcellence variant, it has a very retrospective experience that keeps the occupants as civilized as a salaryman on high noon, but if you forgo for the FR variant, the one with the sport-tuned suspension, one thing you might want to watch out for its stiffness because even though its dynamics are pretty good on the open roads, its city use is not what you called on the safe zone because this is like staying quiet while letting your grandma experience some Smithsonian thrillers all day, all night. Couldn't bear it but there's another thing you want to watch out on the new Ibiza and that is its upgraded Column Electric Power System with electro-mechanical assistance, which makes steering even more dramatic than it was before.

All of the Ibizas for now are powered by a 1.0L petrol engine with different configurations, with 11PS is the highest output offered. Low-powered engines get a 5-speed manual while high-powered engines, including the sporty FR, get a 6-speed manual gearbox. Of course you can expect more engine choices coming soon to the Ibiza, including ones with the 7-speed DSG on it.

2018 Seat Ibiza

Of course, the new Ibiza won't be a certified city car you can take it downtown without a wide array of safety tech and all of these tech are new to the Ibiza, setting a class apart from the competition. With driver drowsiness detection, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, Stop&Go with ACC and DSG, and the Multi Collision Brake that prevents the case of pile-up crashes on the road, the new Ibiza is well-prepared to take on today's traffic conditions, whatever lay ahead.

The price? The new Ibiza starts at 11,760 Euros plus on-road costs and that makes it one of the healthiest-priced compact hatchbacks on the market today. What impresses the most about the new Ibiza is the sizing, the interior, the tech, and the ride but what not to like about it is when you go for FR, the sporty handling is worth a struggle to accommodate on city roads and the fact that it's now available exclusively as a five-door only, which is better-looking by the way. With the all-new Ibiza, we can expect great things in store for SEAT.

Available colors: Blanco, Azul Mediterráneo, Gris Pirineos, Negro Midnight, Mystic, Azul Mystery, and Rojo Desire.

Photo: SEAT

Seat Leon X-Perience vs. Skoda Octavia (Typ 5E) Scout

2015 Seat Leon X-Perience

When the third-generation Seat Leon launched two years ago and being the first for Seat to wear the groundbreaking VW Group's MQB platform, the once five-door hatchback-only Leon has grown into different body styles ranging from the three door SC, high-performance Cupra, ST estate, and now this, the X-Perience crossover.

2015 Seat Leon X-Perience interior

2015 Seat Leon X-Perience

At first glance, the X-Perience looks nothing more than the rugged version of the Leon ST, the estate version, but for this model, this was made for those who are thrill seekers and those who want to go all out to experience their outdoor lifestyles their way. To differentiate it from the ST, the X-Perience is 27mm higher than the mentioned model and unlike any other cars that focused on toughening their looks for styling purposes and not for the outdoor-minded kind of way, the X-Perience is fitted with the permanent AWD system featuring a Haldex multi-plate clutch with hydraulic actuation and electronic control.

Which means, this is unlike any other crossover variations that only comes with front-wheel drive and this is a great car to drive on a day-to-day basis, even when the weather starts to go wet or cold, or when facing against a tarmac, gravel, or snow. On the road, it's not afraid to face another road bump or pothole it face against although some thudding may occur and when taken off the road, you can really feel how its AWD system do its magic. It feels a lot mild to drive as well because this is an all-rounder that you can afford one for only 23,730 Euros in Spain. That sounds more expensive than the ST where it's based at but for an all-rounder, you can afford one than one of these I lined up...

2015 Skoda Octavia Scout

This is the brand new Octavia Scout from Skoda. Although this is priced at around 690,900 Kč or around 25,000 Euros, it still has the same all-wheel drive system as the Leon X-Perience as well as the increased height capable for a tall wagon like this. They both work well on and off the road but the differences between those two lies within their bonnets.

On the X-Perience, it's available with a turbocharged 1.8 TSi, a 1.6 TDi, and a 2.0 TDi engine with two different power outputs, where the top tier has 184PS of power output and mated with the double clutch gearbox. The Scout, on the other hand, has the same 1.8 TSi petrol and the 2.0 TDi diesel engine as the X-Perience with the high-end model has the same 184PS of power output and a 6-speed DSG gearbox as well! In terms of fuel economy, the X-Perience with the 2.0 TDi and DSG can achieve a combined fuel economy of 4.9L/100km while the Scout with the same spec as the X-Perience's can achieve a combined fuel economy of 5.1L/100km.

For the X-Perience with the said specs, 0-100kph takes about 7.1 seconds and top speed of 224kph while the Scout with the said specs can get to 100kph in 8.3 seconds and a top speed of 228kph. Looks like both of them can trade punches every time now, proving which one is better for a family outing during the long winter months.

2015 Skoda Octavia Scout interior

2015 Skoda Octavia Scout

So, while the bigger Scout has identical characteristics compared to the smaller X-Perience, what's like to drive the car that costs more than the X-Perience? Well, even if it's more expensive than the Seat, it still works very well either on and off the road and it has enough room for some emergency supplies in case the wind gets more briskier as well as enough room for an arctic commando to carry around with you if you need advice to set up a shelter on the snow. That sounds stupid but on these conditions, this sport utility wagon does work its magic very well and unlike its chief rival, the Subaru Outback, it feels more engaging than ever and a lot more fun to drive.

If this car works well for a ski holiday, I would want to have one of these but in case when the temperatures start to improve slightly, feels like its adventurous character is slowly fading and it's reverting into a car suitable to drive at your nearest grocery but it doesn't even matter because adventurous or not, the Octavia Scout knows that every day is an adventure. It's like a young man doing wakeboarding by day and goes to the office with his coat and tie ready while getting rid of water from his head after hours of getting wiped out during wakeboarding hours.

2015 Seat Leon X-Perience

2015 Skoda Octavia Scout

Of course, both the Leon X-Perience and the Octavia Scout have the same all-wheel drive, the same heightened ground clearance fit for crossovers too many, the same luggage space that works well with winter emergency supplies, and nearly the same engine choices but when it comes to price and performance, it's hard to sum up which one is better but either way, those sport utility wagons do work well on any road surface and they're nearly capable of being weekend dads just to pass the time. Try both and you decide before you buy.

Photo: SEAT, Skoda Auto

Seat Leon Mk3 Cupra

2015 Seat Leon Cupra

Over the years, SEAT is nothing more than cheap VWs in disguise even though the fact is that it's a division of the Volkswagen Group. Of course, today's Leon Mk3 is typically a VW Golf in Spanish flea but that doesn't stop them from having one of these on the roads because of its new MQB platform that you can now find it in most models from the VW Group.

Thanks to the success of VW's hot Golf models, the GTi and the R, they prompted Seat to make their own version of those hot Golfs using the Leon and here's the result: the new Leon Cupra, a hotter version of the Leon Cupra that looks more like a normal Leon but with the added superiority and firepower of a hot hatch.

Starting at 27,800 Euros for the 3-door SC model and 28,150 Euros for the 5-door model, you can hardly see you have choices to make between these two and when you decide your fate between these two, you can choose which setup your Leon Cupra will have. The 2.0 TSi engine with dual injection and variable camshaft timing can deliver either a 265PS or 280PS. 265PS of power is fine but for those looking for a challenge would go for the 280PS version. Yes, Your fate would most likely go for the Leon Cupra 280 model. Why? Not only it's the most powerful Seat ever made, it's one of the quickest hot hatches money can buy because it went round the Nurburgring at 7:58.44. With all that power, aerodynamics, and the use of VW's MQB platform, the Leon Cupra sets standards in the hot hatch combat.

2015 Seat Leon Cupra interior

Although the Leon Cupra is now an ordinary Golf faux-simile transformed into a track-ready hot hatch honed to take on the world, I'm afraid that this is not one of the most sophisticated cars to drive on a normal city streets. Because the suspension is all stiffened to the brink of having a driver some serious osteoporosis, it's becoming more difficult to keep it comfortable and when you drive it to the potholes while holding a cup of coffee on the cup holder with no cover on it, there's going to be some massive spillage. If you have a double-clutch gearbox on the Cupra 280 model, it doesn't feel as enjoyable as the manual gearbox. It will just spoil your fun more than the hot Renault Clio.

I know, it's not all cruising on the streets but when you take it on the open road and on the track, the Cupra shines through and while taking advantage of its dynamic chassis control, it feels more critical and a bit dramatic when it sees a corners and with the front-axle diff lock, the grip is mild and menacing. As mild as...mild lyrics from your favorite song.

2015 Seat Leon Cupra

2015 Seat Leon Cupra

So, would you credited for the new Leon Cupra? Well, it's less expensive than the VW Golf GTi and with that pricing, the Leon Cupra is a track weapon because of its Nurburgring lap time and its uncanny agility only works on track day but as a daily driver's car, it's not solely recommended and if you have a family of your own, ditch that car for a less attractive people mover. It's your fate, drivers. You need a track-day car? Here's one.

Available colors: Negro Universo, Dynamic, Rojo Emoción, Plata Estrella, Blanco Nevada, Gris Pirineos.

Photo: SEAT, S.A

Seat Leon ST

Ever since the third-generation Seat Leon was launched last year, Volkswagen's Spanish division threw a curve over the new model because with this new generation, which runs on the new flexible MQB platform used on the Audi A3 and the Volkswagen Golf, they now have the opportunity for the Seat Leon to spawn different body styles. Earlier, they've launched a 3-door version called the Leon SC and that was quite a shocker to me because who would really want a 3-door Seat Leon in the first place? We already have an Ibiza SC but why would you want for the bigger Leon SC?

If things are getting much worse for the new Leon, they now have a station wagon version called the Seat Leon ST!!!

2014 Seat Leon ST

Ugh, shouldn't SEAT be enough and content with the existing wagon lineup consisting of the Ibiza ST and the Exeo ST? Oh wait, SEAT discontinued the Exeo range this year so, the Ibiza ST is the remaining Seat wagon as of now, so, with the addition of the Leon ST, it's now back to two. You can now have a choice of two station wagons available for Seat such as the smaller Ibiza ST and the midsize Leon ST. I said it midsize because the Leon ST's sizing, like the new Leon, is just on the right track. Doesn't need to be too big or too little. That will be enough to take the prize.

Where was I? Oh yeah, the new station wagon from SEAT claims to be sporty and practical because in the present climate, nobody wanted a station wagon to be sporty and practical so for this car, it's the best of both worlds...as a theory.

Even though this is just a Volkswagen Golf Variant that was been altered into a Seat, the Seat Leon ST's design looks even more promising than the new Golf Variant because in my eye, the new Golf Variant is a bit too squinty for me.

2014 Seat Leon ST

Because this is the wagon version of the Leon ST, you can expect a bigger boot in the back and it does because even though it's sizing was just right, there's more room with your stuff in the back. This new model is quite a business mixed with leisure if you want to kill some time on the outdoors. With the rear seats folded down, the ST model, it has a capacity of 1,470 litres worth of luggage load, so that's worth enough to fit your balikbayan box at the back. Careful not to overload it like the ones from Korea where they evacuate from the border complex. Quite scary, though.

2014 Seat Leon ST

There is just one catch though because the new Leon ST weighs 45 kilos more than the standard hatchback model but thanks to its systematic lightweight design of the bodyshell, it's the lightest estate car in its class. As for the engine choices, the Seat Leon ST still has the similar choices that most Seat Leons do. You can have a 1.2L TSi, a 1.4L TSi, 1.6L TDI, 2.0L TDi, and if you got more time to kill, a 1.8 TSI engine on the hot FR model, complete with a rather-annoying DSG gearbox which shifts faster than a manual gearbox. A Seat Leon FR with a manual tranny is fine because this gearbox is what expresses our self-expression for shifting gears but with a DSG gearbox implied, it kinda spoils your fun, if you know what I mean?

The FR version of the Leon ST comes with SEAT drive profile with DCC adaptive chassis control. When you set it on Comfort, the suspension makes it softer and making the ride experience is as pleasant as seeing a fat bloke floating on the pool. When you set it on Sport, the suspension gets even harder, more agile in the cornering stakes, and the ride's getting harsher every time when you move about. There's even an optional Dynamic Pack which makes your driving experience with the Leon ST a bit too...professional-grade. Even though if it has the word "Dynamic" on it, the front-wheel drive layout isn't quite easy enough to kill you. It makes the cornering as swift as a game of Wimbledon. Thanks to its multi-link cleverness, if you go for the more powerful versions like the FR, the Leon ST feels as sophisticated as an Emeritus professor of some sorts. I just can't believe that multi-links are getting common these days in today's automobiles.

2014 Seat Leon ST interior

Like many Leons of today, the ST's interior feels pretty much the same as today's model but connectivity aside, it's a so-so for me. It even comes with the SEAT Easy Connect operating system, which allows you to take control of the navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information, isn't quite too shabby either. Having this as an ideal car for the winter holiday sounds pretty hard because, let's be honest, there are so many cars in the market today that combines the practicality of an everyday people mover with the sportiness of a sports car. Even though this new model fits its qualifications, the Leon ST is still more of a Golf Variant than the new Golf Variant but it's still cheaper than the new Golf Variant because of its 16,419 € pricing, almost 3,000 less than the new Golf Variant, so you'll get what you pay for.

Available colors: Blanco, Rojo Emocion, Blanco Nevada, Plata Estrella, Azul Apolo, Gris Pirineos, Negro Universo, Beige Balea, Rojo Montsant, Gris Tecnico, and Azul Alor.

Photo: SEAT S.A.

Seat Leon SC

2014 Seat Leon SC

For the past two generations, the Seat Leon is available exclusively as a 5-door hatch but for the third-generation Leon, things are about to change because starting with the third-generation, which was built on the new MQB platform, Seat plans to expand the new Leon with new body styles to choose from, starting with this.

This new 3-door Leon SC version is the driver-oriented version of the Leon range and any particular reason why there is another 3-door Seat in the making is a complete mystery for now. You see the only driver-oriented Seat offered (with the exception of Cupra which is sort of a hot version) was the Ibiza SC because with so much lightness and so much driver-focused orientation, the Ibiza SC was the enjoyable one but why would they need a bigger brother of the Ibiza SC anyway? Word: Don't expect them to be sitting down to your future Gran Turismo garage because they don't even got the deserving characteristics to be on the next Gran Turismo 6 game. Sorry...

Anyway, what's it all about this three-door nonsense version of the Leon? You know that the Leon is available only in 5-door just like the rest of it but how come everything's changed when they offered this...three door Leon?! Let's find out...

It's like the normal Leon, the third-generation model which was built on an entirely new platform that was applied on the seventh-generation Golf, but because this is a much driver-oriented model, the new Leon SC was focused on being sleek and sporty rather than just your average hatchback that was normally used on a rather typical day in your overalls.

It also has this clever interior which comes with a touch screen that touches your nerves and some lighting which changes every time when a driver engaged different driving settings like when the driver engages SPORT MODE, the lights glow red. Very unique if you opted for the FR model of this car. Also, because this is the 3-door version, your friends will have a very hard time getting access to the rear seats because with so less rear space and thanks for being a driver-focused model, you'll becoming more of an unnecessary selfie. Get it? A selfie!

2014 Seat Leon SC

Like its 5-door cousin, the 3-door model Leon SC also comes with a 1.2 TSi, 1.4 TSi, 1.8 TSi, 1.6 TDi, and a 2.0 TDi engine. Yep, most of the engine lineup were exclusively turbocharged so every time you're driving with one of these, you'll say WHOA...you'll say AHHH...you'll say WHEE...but it isn't. Also, even though it has a refined suspension, it's not what you called comfortable but exciting because far from the driving feel, it's not quite you can call it either comfortable or exciting. It may feel okay in the driving feel department but it's not quite as refined as a bottomless iced tea that you often drink at your nearest fancy restaurant.

In essence then, the Leon SC maybe a driver-oriented version of the Leon made for the selfies but sometimes, it lacks the utter fanciness that you get in other 3-door hatchbacks. It can be somewhat uncomfortable, it can be a bit old-fashioned, and in many other ways...it is ugly.

Available Colors: Azul Alor, Azul Apolo, Beige Balea, Negro Universo, Rojo Emocion, Plata Estrella, Rojo Montsant, Blanco Nevada, Gris Pirineos, and Blanco.

Photo: SEAT

A selection of wild cars from the 2013 GTi Meeting

Every year, in Austria, a group of GTi enthusiasts come togethere for a special even presented by the Volkswagen Group. GTi Meeting or Worthersee Tour, whatever you want to call it, it's all about the noise, the girls, the smokes, the speedo boys, the celebration, and some wild modified concepts presented by the Volkswagen Group as part of saying "thank you" for their loyalty. This year though promises to be even more because here are a small selection of cars as seen on this year's GTi Meeting...

Design Mission GTi Concept - The star attraction of this year's GTi meeting because it maybe a hyped-up version of the Golf VII GTi but with 299kph of top speed and 503PS of power, which is less than 2007's GTi W12 Concept,  you might be surprised that VW sure knows how to make a GTi even more wilder...

Skoda Rapid Sport - How do you make the Skoda Rapid more hotter for this year's meeting? The Sport Concept, that's for sure! The red and white paint scheme adds a nice touch on it!

Golf GTi Cabrio Austria - A group of rookies from all sorts spend the whole year creating this car which is based on the Golf VI GTi Cabrio and hard work pays off.

VW Amarok Power Pickup Concept - From the looks of it, the Amarok Power Pickup doesn't look quite as sporty as expected to be but it comes with a body kit and large 22-inch wheels, together with some sporty upgrades om the interior and the fitment of a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 diesel (TDI) that churns out 268hp and a peak torque of 600Nm.

Seat Leon Cup Racer - Using the latest generation Leon, the Cup Racer version adds some racing peripherals on it as well as the 330PS engine equipped on it.

Seat Ibiza SC Trophy - The race-spec version of the Ibiza SC was made to compete in one-make races in Spain and Italy. It was rigged with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 200 PS (197 hp) mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox.

Audi TT ultra quattro Concept - Guess this Audi TT's taking too much Zumba sessions and losing so much weight really means more fun for this kind of TT here...

Seat Leon Third generation (Typ 5F)

The SEAT Leon...if my memory serves me correctly, the Leon is nothing more of a Volkswagen Golf with a bit of se habla espanol because it is just a Spanish equivalent to the Golf. This car may have spawned two generations but it still won't deny that it's still a VW Golf after taking Spanish lessons. Besides, it does come with the same engine choices from the Golf as well...

2013 Seat Leon

At long last, a full model change for the Seat Leon and hey, do you think it still has the guts of other Leons to prove it has the wit to stay competitive? Do you think it's going to feel like Leon the Professional? Leon Guerrero? Leon S. Kennedy? Sadly, it's a no because this is just the same old Leon for nothing because even though it's an all new model, it still just based on the Golf 7 because of its new MQB platform developed by Volkswagen Group for future models. Let's not forget that future VW Group models will be using this new platform no matter which body style they're on.

2013 Seat Leon interior

First of all is the design and this one's rather looking similar. The new Leon is becoming more like the big brother of the recently facelifted Seat Ibiza compact car. When you put them both, just look at them. Their fronts really look like it was some sort of inheritance of genes, just like when a little boy has the nose of his father's and the pubic hair of his. Okay, it's going to be too cheesy for words but anyway, how about the interior? It seems that VW's doing the right thing to make the Leon more accessible for the drivers because most of the switches, buttons and controls in the new SEAT Leon are located exactly where the driver would expect them to be. New to the Leon is the techie-favored Easy Connect system which features a user-friendly touch-screen. For beginners, the Media System Touch gets a CD player with SD card slot, four speakers and a five-inch touchscreen while for the advanced yuppies, the Media System Colour includes a better screen, six speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and aux-in. Then, comes the Media System Plus, which adds iPod connectivity, DAB, voice recognition, eight speakers and sat nav, and finally, the SEAT Sound System, which upgrades to ten speakers and a sub-woofer. Sounds lovely and this is becoming a premium hatchback in its own right when most of the concessions to comfort and convenience are bundled together in the all new Leon.

2013 Seat Leon

There are several kinds of engines available on the new Seat Leon such as a 1.2 TSi, 1.4 TSi, 1.8 TSi, 1.6 TDi, and a 2.0 TDi engine. Choosing either of these engine lineups is like choosing for your Pringles flavor of choice at your nearest 7-Eleven convenience store but whichever side you're on, you might be expecting a choice of either a five- or six-speed manuals and seven-speed DSG twin clutch systems.

When you take your foot on, the Seat Leon feels like you're swimming with hard candy that smells like menthol and tastes like fruit...and menthol. They're like MAXX menthol candies to me when I'm driving one because when I bite one of these, it feels a bit rough but by not biting one of my MAXX's, it feels a bit okay to me, it soothes me right until the MAXX in my mouth is shrunken down to nothingness. That's how the driving feel of the new Leon feels like, having a piece of my favorite fruit-menthol hard candy in my mouth and decide if I'm going for the fast but rough way or the slow but sensual way.

It might be a VW Golf taking so much Spanish lessons but the new Seat Leon (Typ 5F) can make a decent opponent to the likes of the Citroen C4, Alfa Romeo Giuletta, Peugeot 308, or the brand new Renault Clio. As for me, I didn't like this new model in terms of its design because it looks like an oversized Ibiza to me. Seems like some alien boy's busy playing with his grow ray and he accidentally zap it on the parked Ibiza in Madrid until it grew into something. He he he... Anyway, as for the driving style, it's harsh but when you take it slowly, it's not that harsh. Remember the fruit-menthol candy reference I'm talking about. It was quite a surprise that VW Group invested a few Euros just to regenerate the Leon...only know is can the Leon cope up in Spain's current economic climate? I mean of course, there's been a huge debt crisis lingering on in Europe for several months now and I think the Leon might not work here unless it has the chance. Besides, now that SEAT is coming to China, will the Chinese appreciate the new Leon more? Spoilers...

PRICE LIST:


León 1.6 TDI CR 90 CV (66 kw) Emoción 17.720 €
León 1.6 TDI CR 90 CV (66 kw) Reference 19.770 €
León 1.6 TDI CR 105 CV Start&Stop (77 kw) Reference 20.300 €
León 1.4 TSI 122 CV Start&Stop (90 kw) Style 20.330 €
León 1.4 TSI 140 CV Start&Stop (103 kw) Style 20.870 €
León 1.6 TDI CR 105 CV Start&Stop (77 kw) Style 21.900 €
León 2.0 TDI CR 150 CV Start&Stop (110 kw) Style 23.250 €
León 1.4 TSI 122 CV Start&Stop (90 kw) FR 21.790 €
León 1.4 TSI 140 CV Start&Stop (103 kw) FR 22.330 €
León 2.0 TDI CR 150 CV Start&Stop (110 kw) FR 24.710 €

New Skoda Rapid and New Seat Toledo

This is the first of one of today's offerings. It's the new age of Skoda, the first of its kind, a compact sedan. The Skoda Rapid. It maybe essentially a production version of the MissionL concept car as seen on 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show but this one though is a bit more clever than that...

2013 Skoda Rapid

Now, if you're from India, then to you, your India's Rapid is different from our Rapid. As I want to say, the real Skoda Rapid we'll talk about is the new one. The real one. The made-in-Mladá Boleslav one. The one from the Paris Motor Show. Not the poor man's Rapid which was made in Pune. Indian Rapids had the old Skoda badge on it while the Rapid that was made in Mlada Boleslav, Czech, has the new Skoda trademark front as well as the new Skoda logo. See the difference? Yep, it stays true to its brand slogan; "Simply Clever".

Hopefully, I don't want anyone from India reading this article or searching for it. Anyway, this new Rapid is coming back fighting and the most powerful version as of now is the 1.4 TSi model that produces 122PS of power, 0-100kph time of 9.5 seconds, and top speed of 206kph. Most fuel efficient is the one with the 1.6 TDi engine mated with the 5-speed manual that promises combined consumption of 23.8km/L (4.2l/100km). There are other engine types available such as the 1.2 MPi, 1.2 TSi, and a 1.6 TDi with 105PS power output and whichever engine you're on, transmission offerings will be a 5-speed MT, 6-speed MT, or a 7-speed DSG.

Prices start at about 289,000 Koruna or about an estimated 11,500 Euros for the basic Skoda Rapid Active 1.2 MPi 5MT varnat up to 459,900 Koruna or about an estimated 18,210 Euros for the top of the line Skoda Rapid Elegance 1.4 TSi 7-speed DSG model.

2013 Skoda Rapid interior

It looks nice though and somewhat practical because what's underneath the Rapid is a chassis from the current generation Volkswagen Polo, which means there's a bit of cleverness going on. Sure, Skoda is the Czech subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, the Germans have done it again to keep the new Rapid well-made for the developing markets, even China's going to get one of these soon.

2013 Skoda Rapid

It may look like a saloon car but it is essentially a 5-door liftback promising a luggage capacity of 550 litres. That makes it a good compact car all-round for everyday use and I think the all new Rapid could claim to be Czech's first of its kind.

However, it must now face this. A car that seems to be the identical twin of the Skoda Rapid...

2013 Seat Toledo

The se habla español SEAT Toledo. It's back. The compact saloon is back and now it uses the same aesthetics from the Skoda Rapid. It might be more of the production version of the concept version as seen from the 2012 Geneva Motor Show but by the looks of it, the Seat Toledo's dramatic design blows the Rapid out of the water. It looks even more premium and stylish unlike any other compact saloons in this category.

2013 Seat Toledo interior

Even though the new Toledo, like the new Rapid, comes with the same engine choices such as the 1.2 MPi, 1.2 TSi, 1.4 TSi, and the 1.6 TDi engine but when it comes to dimensions, the Toledo is longer than the Rapid thanks to its long wheelbase.

2013 Seat Toledo

However, there are a couple of chinks behind the Toledo's elegance; while the Rapid costs about an estimated 11,500 Euros for the entry-level grade, the entry-level grade for the Toledo will cost you 13.990 Euros, that's more than the Rapid even though they are made at the same line and they used the same A05+ platform. Also, the Toledo's less wider than the Rapid. You really can't tell which one has a wide stance.

But still, the Toledo is much more better looking than the Rapid because while the Rapid is focused to be more simple but the new Toledo is very stylish, very practical, and very emotional in every corner. These two compact saloons is what the Czech and the Spanish are capable of in the midst of the Euro Debt Crisis that hampering European carmakers for days but would they work in today's economy? You'll have to find that out soon...

Photo: Skoda Auto, SEAT

SEAT Ibiza Mk4 minor change

You might imagine that the Mk4 Seat Ibiza is slowy becoming a template for the Skoda Fabia and the Volkswagen Polo, well probably because of the PQ25 platform they've shared. Few years ago, I still think that this Mk4 Ibiza is getting a bit pretty well for the Spanish member of the Volkswagen Group. However, there are somebody really batter my point of view regarding the Ibiza.

There is another example of this; because in my blog, someone looking for the terms "SEAT Ibiza Fully". SEAT Ibiza Fully? Hello! We don't have one!! How come there are Algerians reading this? If you're an Algerian spend most of the time doing nothing but Google searching "SEAT Ibiza Fully", all I have to say to you, Algerian SEAT enthusiasts, is...YOU BIG DAFT C**K.

Now however there is a solution. It's the facelifted version of the SEAT Ibiza Mk4. Something that those cocks from SEAT Algerie won't be mentioning the "Ibiza Fully" thing again so those Algerian idiots won't bothering me again. For the minor change, the Ibiza 5-door, the Ibiza SC 3-door, and the Ibiza ST estate, now comes with a new front view that harkened back to the facelifted SEAT Exeo sedan and tourer, as are the new rear, signalling a new styling direction for SEAT.

2013 SEAT Ibiza range

2013 SEAT Ibiza FR range

2013 SEAT Ibiza interior

That is my idea of a good looking Ibiza Mk4. Something that those Algerian idiots won't be laying a finger on, but its difficult to explain why. Firstly the minor change is all about being fascinated. It's got SEAT's new styling direction that was adopted on the SEAT Exeo and the SEAT Mii, probably because the front lamps of the Seat Ibiza Mk4 minor change gained some kind of spaceship-like daytime running headlamps. Once more, the bumpers are revised to provide a sportier look than the pre-facelifted model. The Mk4 Ibiza may be four years old since its tenure in 2008 but with this new look, it gets even more interesting and even more delicious. It kinda feels like this is a cherry at the top of the cake. If that wasn't put you in, there's a sportier Ibiza FR variants that looks...pretty much the same as the normal Ibizas except for the FR badge on the grille, and the 16-inch alloy rims wrapped in 215/45 tyres.

Happily however, the SEAT Ibiza ST now comes with the FR variant but sadly, no 2.0 TDi engine. This engine is reserved for the Ibiza FR 5-door and SC.

Anyway, here are some of the engines offered if you picked the Ibiza 5DR:

• 1.2 60CV - 125 g/km CO2
• 1.2 70CV - 125 g/km CO2
• 1.4 85CV - 139 g/km CO2
• 1.6 GLP 82CV - 139 / 123 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV - 119* g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV DSG - 124 g/km CO2
• 1.4 TSI 150CV DSG - 139* g/km CO2
• 1.2 TDI CR 75CV - 99 / 102 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TDI CR 75CV E-Ecomotive - 89 / 92 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 90CV - 109 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 105CV - 109 g/km CO2
• 2.0 TDI CR 143CV - 119 / 123 g/km CO2

Then, here are some of the engines offered for the 3DR Ibiza SC:

• 1.4 85CV - 139 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV - 119* g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV DSG - 124 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TDI CR 75CV - 99 / 102 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 90CV - 109 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 105CV - 109 / 112 g/km CO2

And here are some of the engines offered on the Ibiza ST estate:

• 1.4 85CV - 139 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV - 119* g/km CO2
• 1.2 TSI 105CV DSG - 124 g/km CO2
• 1.2 TDI CR 75CV - 99 / 102 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 90CV - 109 g/km CO2
• 1.6 TDI CR 105CV - 109 / 112 g/km CO2

Depending on those engine types, you could expect either a 5-speed MT, 6-speed MT, or a double-clutch transmission.  Those equipped with engines that produces 105CV of power may also get XDS electronic differential lock for neutral handling and powerful traction, just like a mechanical differential lock. When the electronics recognise that there is too little load on the front inside wheel during cornering it applies a brief braking impulse. A good example was in the form of the anti-lock brakes.

I'd buy the one with the 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive because of the average fuel consumption of just 3.4 litres/100 km or 89g/km of CO2 emissions. It comes with an idling stop system that stops the engine when the car stopped and then start again when your foot is on the pedal, to save fuel. Surprisingly, the Aerodynamic package will provide an enclosed radiator grille and a lower air intake that optimises airflow within the engine compartment. It even comes with a front spoiler, rear wing, special deflectors on the rear wheel arches and 15-inch wheels with closed covers. With these, you can expect a drag coefficient of 0.30 and once more, a shift recommendation display and slightly increased tyre pressure completes the whole Aerodynamic package.

Depending on the variant, available colors of the new SEAT Ibiza Mk4 minor change are Speed, Boal, Tribu, Blanco Nevada, Rojo Montsant, Negro Cosmos, Plata Estrella, Gris Pirineos, Verde Lima, Azul Apolo, Blanco, and Rojo Emocion.

My comment:

It takes a very sensible man or woman to be indulged into this sensible new look of the facelifted SEAT Ibiza Mk4. Even though it sports a new look that was now a SEAT Design DNA, you still have a choice of either a normal 5-door hatch for your balanced proportion, 3-door SC for your sporty pleasure, and the ST estate that has more room at the back. With this minor change, this SEAT Ibiza Mk4 is now becoming the most sensible SEAT ever made for the sensible drivers.

If you're Algerian, don't expect this facelifted Ibiza approaching to you yet because SEAT Algerie has no plans to introduce the facelifted Ibiza. This facelifted Ibiza will be available for the first time in the Chinese market because as you know, SEAT is officially arrived in China to boost sales because China plays a major role in the automotive industry. Hmmmm, China....Why would they want to sell the Ibiza on China? That is a question, I'm afraid, I can't answer for now but anyway the SEAT Ibiza is made in the state-of-the-art SEAT plant in Martorell near Barcelona, Spain. Later this year, a facelifted Ibiza Cupra will be introduced but this takes time...

Scoop: SEAT S.A.

Welcome Back: 2007 Seat Leon Cupra & 2010 Seat Leon Cupra R

We never seen a Spanish hot hatch driving
around the Top Gear Test Track

The Incredible Stig in his
Incredible Cupra R!

Some say that the Seat Leon is more like the Volkswagen Golf's Spanish cousin but this is a bit more than that. What you see here are a bunch of Seat Leon Cupra models to choose from. If you were to ask "What is the difference between Seat Leon Cupra and Seat Leon Cupra R?", there is a simple answer to that...

About the Leon Cupra:

The SEAT Leon Cupra comes with the 2.0L TFSi engine that produces 241PS of power and a 0-60mph time of 6.4 seconds. It has 18-inch rims, red brake calipers, and a special exhaust, as well as special paint finishes and sport seats embroidered with the Cupra logo.

This car was made using the know-how from their World Touring Car Championship season and little known fact that the Spanish is, in fact, one of the favourites for the WTCC constructors and drivers championship. For SEAT, whose goal is to create sporty cars with cutting-edge design and the latest technology, the arrival of the new Seat Leon Cupra is not just a source of satisfaction and pride; it is also essential.

About the Leon Cupra R:

Debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the R model is a much tamer version of the SEAT Leon Cupra. The 2.0L TFSi engine, which did come from the regular Leon Cupra, now comes with 265HP of power thanks to Seat Technical Centre that made significant effort into modifying the engine's electronic management system and increasing the maximum turbo pressure.

The Cupra R comes with XDS system that works together with ESP and functions as a self-blocking mechanism. It improves the car's performance when traction is lost by applying braking power to the wheel that loses grip.

So, now you know their differences but what if it's not enough? Let's settle their differences with a bit of a power lap time...

By science and due consideration, my SEAT Leon Cupra did it in 1:33.471 and my Leon Cupra R did it in 1:32.457. I believe that the Cupra R is more of a hardcore for SEAT but it's not more hardcore than its big cousin, the Volkswagen Golf R because unlike the SEAT Leon Cupra R, which is front-wheel drive, the Golf R has 4WD for added traction.