SEAT is heralding its sporty new Toledo model due to hit the streets in December as the most cost-effective car of its type, bar none.

The new range will start at £12,495 for a 1.2-litre E version and, on the back of a record sales figure for September, the Spanish brand is brimming with confidence for its latest arrival.

SEAT produced more than 860,000 units of the first two Toledo ranges alone and this new generation comes with the promise of generous space, top notch efficiency and value for money.

With a length of 4.48 metres, the new Toledo is appreciably longer than its predecessor from 2004, and while that car had a conventional boot lid, the latest version boasts a large, wide-opening rear hatch.

And the comparatively long wheelbase - 80 mm longer than the Toledo II - ensures ample legroom for all passengers.

Slotting into the SEAT stable between the Leon and Exeo line-ups, the Toledo will have a choice of 1.2 and 1.4-litre TSI petrol engines from the Volkswagen group plus a 1.6-litre TDI diesel.

The petrol engines generate between 75 and 122PS, the petrol Ecomotive version boasting CO2 emissions of just 116g/km, while the TDI Ecomotive, which produces 105PS, also offers a best-in-class emissions figure of 104g/km.

Even entry grade cars include 15-inch steel wheels, black door handles and wing mirrors, front electric windows, MP3 CD player with AUX-in, Electronic Stability Control, front side and curtain airbags; front seatbelt reminders and ISOFIX points with Top Tether.

SEAT product manager Simon Bradley said: "We've positioned the range so that it offers something for everyone, with the entry-level E model providing exceptional value in terms of the space on offer for the price, while the SE specification car is loaded with useful equipment.

"Whatever version is chosen, every Toledo customer will enjoy outstandingly low running costs because of the car's excellent fuel economy and low CO emissions across the range, as well as very reasonable insurance groupings, and BIK ratings as low as 14 per cent."

Prices are from £12,495 for a 1.2-litre E model to £17,840 for a Toledo 1.6 TDI CR Ecomotive SE.