Insight

Make
Honda
Segment
Sedan

Up until now, we've only been able to see a grainy leaked photo of SEAT's new IBL plug-in hybrid concept. Fortunately, the Spanish automaker, which is part of the Volkswagen Group, has unveiled the real deal at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Described as the "latest evolution of stylish SEAT design DNA," the IBL concept sedan is a stunning preview of what we'd love to see future SEAT products look like.

But beneath that great body, lies an interior with a next generation infotainment setup and draught-free air conditioning. According to James Muir, President of SEAT, "The IBL concept...does not pre-empt a specific model, but rather shows the design philosophy we are applying to bring the unmistakable SEAT identity to a saloon car. Over the next few years, SEAT will embark upon a product offensive that will see the spirit of the IBL...in series production models." Styled to partially resemble a four-door coupe, the IBL is meant to fit into a "premium lifestyle...with quality and technological excellence."

Overall, we really like the muscular stance, the front LED headlamp design and the large 20-inch wheels. Even the interior's center console is designed to be driver oriented, with three different driving modes - Travel, Sport, and Efficiency - on a visual display along with second display exclusively for the infotainment systems. Knowing that SEAT really needs some sort of design infusion that's both exciting and translatable into a production model, the IBL may just be the key to their future.