Seat Ateca Marathon: this Seat Ateca TDi with 150 CV and all-wheel drive is capable of anything

The SEAT Ateca Marathon returns to action in the demanding AfricaClassic Race, a rally that will test the endurance and capability of this SUV over more than a thousand kilometres of hostile terrain. This model, prepared by the experts at SEAT Históricos, will tackle tracks full of dunes, rivers, rocks and jumps, once again showing why it is one of the most versatile and reliable vehicles in its category.

Although the SEAT Ateca Marathon retains much of its standard characteristics, it has undergone some key modifications to ensure its optimal performance in the desert. Despite these improvements, it keeps its essence as a dynamic and versatile SUV, and its capability has surprised even its own engineers. “We are pleasantly surprised by its robustness and reliability,” says Isidre López, director of SEAT Históricos. “Even in extreme situations, the Ateca performs with remarkable efficiency, both on dunes and on rocky terrain.”

The SEAT Ateca Marathon will act as the rapid assistance vehicle for the legendary SEAT Toledo Marathon, which will once again seek the first place in the RallyClassics África, after its victory in the previous edition. This prototype model, 31 years old, will compete in the Open category, where three units of the Ateca Marathon will also take part.

Key modifications to the SEAT Ateca Marathon:

1. Roof rack: Added to carry shovels and recovery boards, needed to free the vehicle if it gets stuck in the sand.
2. Increased body height: Raised by 4 centimetres, improving its ability to tackle rough terrain.
3. Engine protection: A duralumin guard has been installed to protect the engine, sump and suspension from impacts.
4. Off-road tyres: Fitted with 16-inch wheels and BF Goodrich All Terrain tyres, designed to withstand the demands of the terrain.
5. Reinforced dampers and springs: The originals were replaced with more robust versions, increasing suspension travel by 2 centimetres and improving performance on difficult terrain.
6. Sport seats: Taken from the SEAT Ateca FR, these seats provide greater comfort and support in extreme conditions.
7. Co-driver equipment: Additional instruments to help the co-driver with navigation across the desert.

Performance and reliability

The SEAT Ateca Marathon stands out for its electronically controlled all-wheel drive, which distributes torque between the front and rear axles depending on the terrain conditions. This system, together with the Haldex clutch, allows it to cross challenging terrain, such as dunes, where many other vehicles would fall short. Although it requires some practice to make the most of its capability, the Ateca proves to be an SUV prepared for the most extreme situations.

With an additional cost of approximately 4,000 euros for the modifications, this SEAT Ateca Marathon is ready to face one of the toughest rallies in the world. An invitation for motoring enthusiasts who want to join the adventure in future editions of the RallyClassics África.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverSEAT Ateca3 versions · from 33,442 €