Seat has become the first car manufacturer in Europe to introduce Amazon Alexa to its models to expand the number of voice control functions that can be carried out.

Alexa was first launched by Amazon in 2014 as a cloud-based voice recognition tool originally as a smart speaker on the Amazon Echo. While certain vehicles in the US are already compatible with the technology, Seat is the first brand to in Europe to launch the tool.

Alexa can carry out a host of functions – including managing schedules, playing music, setting up the navigation and finding the nearest dealership, amongst other things.

The tool is now available on 2019 model year Leon hatchback and Ateca crossover, but only on versions fitted with satellite navigation. This means trim levels from SE Technology upwards will be offered with it. It’s thought that the system will make its way onto the cheaper Ibiza and Arona later in the year.

Unfortunately, the service is only available for Android users, although it will work in tandem with the Seat Media Control with the Amazon Alexa app.

Seat president Luca de Meo said: “As functionality and connectivity levels increase, we have to find a balance between usability and safety. Introducing Amazon Alexa helps us find that balance.

“With just a tap of the steering wheel, customers will be able to ask Alexa for music, points of interest and much more without taking eyes off the road.”

Earlier in the week, Seat announced it was adding a digital cockpit to the range-topping models of the Ibiza and Arona – the Leon and Ateca were already available with this tech.