This news comes straight of Martorell, as SEAT is ready to launch their first compact SUV, the Spanish manufacturer thinks consumers are dictating the growth of this segment.

Arantxa Alonso, who works in SEAT’s product marketing department thinks that SUV customers are looking for four main characteristics in a car. First and foremost, a superior feeling of safety, which you get thanks to the SUVs robust nature.

Then, you’re looking at the design, greater versatility and more interior space for both passengers as well as luggage. Alonso argues that these traits are most important to male customers who are around 52 years in age, though also highly regarded by women.

“Thanks to its high driving position, women have a greater feeling of safety that does away with the fear of city driving. It’s like sitting in a fortress.”

Alonso also thinks that this is the “ideal moment” for SEAT to launch their SUV, seen as how the brand has demonstrated maturity “with the ability to make cars that stand out for their technology and quality.”

According to data gathered by the Spanish automaker, SUV sales will grow by 25% by the time the year 2020 comes along, which in turn will result in over 1,550,000 units of this type of vehicle being sold in Western Europe, proving that “rather than a passing trend, the SUV is here to stay.”

Note: SEAT 20V20 concept pictured

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