SEAT, S.A. was founded on 9 May 1950 in Barcelona under Spain’s Instituto Nacional de Industria, producing Fiat-designed vehicles under license. SEAT’s early models, such as the SEAT 600, catalyzed Spain’s post-war motorization. After joining the Volkswagen Group in 1986, SEAT leveraged Volkswagen’s platforms to develop Spanish-influenced variants, including the Ibiza hatchback and Leon compact sedan. The brand expanded into SUVs with the Ateca and Tarraco in the late 2010s, and launched CUPRA as a performance sub-brand in 2018. In 2023, SEAT and CUPRA combined global sales exceeded 700,000 units, with SEAT accounting for family cars and crossovers. Known for sporty handling, contemporary design, and “Feel the Road” driving dynamics, SEAT remains Volkswagen Group’s strategic anchor in Southern Europe.