A PHEV-powered powertrain could be on the horizon.

On March 1, 2016, SEAT joined the SUV category with the debut by the first-ever Ateca at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The sportier Ateca was next, and the high-performance Cupra Ateca followed two years later. Three years ago, the Spanish brand launched its first SUV. Now we have spy photos of the updated Ateca, taken somewhere in Europe.

Our photographers have sent us photos with two prototypes. We are now witnessing the initial testing stage of the facelifted model. The first prototype looks identical to the Ateca currently on sale. However, the front fascia has not been modified. The second prototype is more interesting. It features a completely disguised front, including the headlights. This is something that we don’t often see in the industry.

This trial car uses auxiliary lamps instead of standard headlights. This means that the headlights will be redesigned or the internal graphics will be updated. It is possible to disguise the entire bumper as well as parts of the grilles, hinting at further visual improvements for the front.

Ateca Powerful:

Although the rear is largely covered, there are several sensors that look interesting. The sensors are located at each wheel, and it is possible that the Spanish engineers are trying out an energy recuperating system. This suggests that the Ateca could be receiving the plug-in hybrid powertrain for the next generation Leon in 2020.

We don’t think the Ateca will be redesigned this year due to its age. It is still in its early testing phase, so it’s possible that the SUV will debut during the first half 2020. This could be at next year’s Geneva Motor Show.