SEAT has unveiled its Arona as it presses ahead with plans to swiftly develop a strong SUV presence.

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Revealed following last year’s launch of the midsize Ateca – which marked the brand’s first and somewhat late foray into the SUV sector – the Arona launches later this year to take the fight to the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur. It will be joined next year by an unnamed flagship large SUV.

As with the new Ibiza, the Arona is built on the group’s MQB A0 platform and is slightly shorter than both the Juke and Captur but 79mm longer and 99mm taller than the Ibiza, with suspension increased by 15mm. It also brings a higher driving position and increased front and rear headroom. Boot space stands at 400 litres – compared to 354 for the Nissan and 455 for the Renault.

Depending on the market, trim level designations will be carried over from the Ibiza, Leon and Ateca and cover Reference, Style, FR and XCELLENCE.

Technology will also draw on other models and includes 8-inch black panel touchscreen, and connectivity hub with wireless phone Charger and GSM signal amplifier plus Apple Car Play, Android Auto and Mirror Link.

SEAT also promises extensive personalisation options – the lower body and roof can be specified in different colour options, with a total of 68 different combinations on offer globally, and a range of interior colours and trims.

Engine line-up – all of which are turbocharged units with stop/start technology – will cover three petrols – 95hp and 115hp 1.0 TSI units and a 150hp 1.5-litre TSI, which is only available on the FR trim and features active cylinder deactivation technology. The entry-level petrol will come with a five-speed manual while the higher powered 1.0 TSI features a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG and the 150hp TSI gets a six-speed manual.

Diesels cover 95hp and 115hp 1.6 TDI units, with a five-speed manual transmission or seven-speed DSG for the former and six-speed manual for the 115hp unit.

The new SEAT Arona debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.