Terra tactics from Seat
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• Spanish manufacturer Seat is stepping up its attack on the UK light commercial market by expanding the options for its high-cube car-derived van, the Terra. A diesel engine will be offered, as well as a novel "van with windows", dubbed the Terra Vista.
The new diesel power unit, which is to be supplied by the company's parent, Volkswagen, should be available late next year. The Vista, which features rear windows and a removable rear seat, will be available from dealers in a few weeks.
Although the Terra is offered with a Seat-built diesel an the Continent, this model has not been brought into the UK, so those CDV buyers who prefer compression-ignition power should welcome the VW Itngine option.
Seat UK does not have final specifications, but believes the iiesel displaces 1.3 litres. It seems probable, therefore, .hat the engine is the 1,272cc 14kW (45hp) unit used by VW al the Continent in the Polo 5aloon and van, which is part of he EA827 series produced in iuge numbers by AudiNW. With the diesel, the 'rerra vill stand a better chance of :ompeting with its big-selling' Ugh-cube rivals, such as the enault Extra, Citroen C15 Ind Fiat Fiorino, which are iarticularly popular in diesel orm. As yet, however, Seat las not finalised its pricing trategy, (the petrol Terra urrently retails for £3,870, at-VAT). The Terra Vista, which was on view at last year's Birmingham Motor Show, is a more controversial idea, since by including rear seats and windows it becomes subject to car tax and VAT. Nevertheless, because of the additional versatility given by the rear seats, Seat believes a market exists among shop owners and small businesses who will benefit from the vehicle's dual roles.
The vehicle's cause will undoubtedly be helped by its low retail price of £4,999, inclusive of all taxes.. The Vista will also gain from the diesel option next year.
Seat has sold over 1,300 Terra car-derived vans since the launch last June. The new Terra Vista is aimed at commercial buyers even though it is subject to car tax and VAT; interior (below) has removable seats.