As you can see from...

As you can see from these official pictures, the all-new four-wheel-drive model has a controversial look, with black bumpers and extended wheelч­arches. The nose gets a deep honeycomb grille, while the cladding extends to the rear, with the plastic creating a lip effect for the back bumper.

The new model is based on the existing Altea XL compact MPV, but its ride height has been increased by 40mm to provide impressive ground clearance

The new model is based on the existing Altea XL compact MPV, but its ride height has been increased by 40mm to provide impressive ground clearance. Traditionally, the manufacturer has steered clear of the 4x4 market in the UK. While an all-wheel-drive version of the previous Leon hatch was available in mainland Eurч­ope, it never went on sale here, as top brass were conscious of stealing sales from sister brand Audi.

A spokesman for SEAT explained the change of direction. "The rugged people carrier class is a growing market which we can easily tap into with the Altea," he said. "In keeping with the rest of the SEAT brand, the Freeч­track will be more dynamic and interesting to drive than the competition."

The newcomer benefits from the VW Group"s Haldex four-wheel-drive transmission, which already appears on Volkswagen models wearing the 4MOTION badge. The layout feeds power to the front wheels in most conditions, but can automatically shift up to 50 per cent of the car"s drive to the rear when traction is lost.

Inside, the cabin will be familiar to owners of the standard Altea XL. That means there"s lots of space and a solid, well laid out dashboard, plus a 60:40 split-folding back seat. The rear bench also slides to enhance the generous 593-litre boot"s capacity.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels and a seven-inch multimedia screen, which is mounted in the roof. This allows owners to watch DVDs and play video games, and is also compatible with MP3 music files. In addition, the Freetrack gets dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors, cruise control and rear door window blinds. Safety kit includes electronic stability control, six airbags and a tyre pressure warning system.

The SEAT will be powered by a 197bhp 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine, which it shares with VW"s Golf GTI. This gives 0-60mph in 7.5 secч­onds and a 133mph top speed. The unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, but a DSG sequential set-up is likely to be an option. A 170bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel will also be available.

Buyers won"t have to wait long to see the Altea Freetrack in the metal. Visitors to the Barcelona Motor Show can preview the model next month, and it hits UK dealers in September. Only one trim level will be available, with prices from around чЈ20,000.