SEAT reveals first ever estate

We're about to get behind the wheel of the new SEAT Exeo - a saloon based on last-generation Audi A4 underpinnings, with an interior lifted from the old A4 Cabriolet. In the meantime, SEAT has unveiled the estate version, which will go on sale in September but can be ordered from April (when the saloon officially hits showrooms). We'll see it in the metal at Geneva.

It gets 442-litres worth of boot space, which is a whole 100-litres less than the Ford Mondeo estate - though the Exeo majors on style and quality rather than outright load-lugging capability, hence it's ST moniker.

The Exeo ST will be available with three engines: a duo of diesels developing 141bhp and 168bhp, and a 197bhp turbocharged petrol unit. A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard, though we expect a DSG twin-clutch automatic will become available too.

Standard equipment is generous, including dual-zone climate control, alloy wheels and Bluetooth phone preparation. As usual, expect a range of options including satnav, bigger wheels and leather upholstery to be available, too. More news on pricing will be available closer to release.

Mark Nichol