The Leon has been a cornerstone of the SEAT range since 1999, accumulating more than 2.2 million sales globally
Practical and fun to drive, there is lots to like about the new SEAT Leon writes Suzanne Keane
What is it? I was a huge fan of the first SEAT Leon but they certainly lost their way with its replacement in 2005. The 3rd generation was a huge improvement harking back to the good old days and while this new Leon is more spacious and practical it doesn’t seem to have lost its spark.
Who is it aimed at? The Leon offers the benefits of a sensible hatchback with a sportier edge.
Styling? This Leon boasts improved aerodynamics which has resulted in what Seat describe as the perfect mix of edges and curves in the right places. It’s certainly better looking than the previous model, especially at the back, and the LED eyebrows give a meaner look to the front end. However, the bulging fog lights are a little awkward looking. The rear lights continue across the boot door giving the appearance of a wider stance and this is paired with a spoiler for a sportier look.
Under the Bonnet? The car tested was powered by the 1.5TSI petrol engine – plenty of oomph for everyday use and economical on motorway trips – I took the car from Kerry to Dublin and back.
The new SEAT Leon offers a good mix of standard technology and options no matter which of the trims you opt for
What about inside? Inside the Leon is a central 10” infotainment screen surrounded by wood effect trim with bronze highlights and LED wraparound lighting which could change colour and tone. The model tested had a stunning tweed upholstery with bronze leather detailing. There were 4 USB type C connection points, including 2 in the back and wireless charging in the front. There was plenty of space even with two rear-facing child seats in the back and the car also had ISOFIX on the front passenger seat – however, due to the shape of the door fitting a larger seat in the front might be impossible! The boot has 380 litres of space, which took a travel system and changing bag with ease.
On the Road? Based on the MQB Evo platform the new Leon has a wheelbase which is 50mm more than its predecessor, making it smoother and more comfortable on the road. The car tested had dynamic chassis control so effortlessly switched from a harsher ride to a smooth motorway journey. The Leon coped really well on country back roads and city streets.
And Safety? Standard safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, light assist, and fatigue detection.
What are my options? Standard equipment includes 16” alloy wheels, an 8” media system and SEAT connect. Upgrading to Xcellence and FR trims will get you 17” or 18” alloys, a fully digital cockpit, full LED lights, coast to coast rear lights, wrap-around interior lighting and the connectivity box. The headlights in the Xcellence and FR trims are full LED dynamic headlights providing greater intensity of light without dazzling oncoming traffic.
The test car was a 1.5TSI 150bhp Xcellence in Mystery Blue with 18” Alloys, keyless start, reversing camera, height and lumbar adjustment for the front seats.
There are five engine options available. Petrol engines include a 1.0 TSI 110bhp and the 1.5 TSI 150bhp (as tested) while a mild hybrid eTSI comes with 150bhp. Diesel options are a 2.0 TDI in both 115bhp and 150bhp.
The 380 Litre boot is more than enough space for buggies, golf clubs or shopping
Will it break the bank? The new SEAT Leon starts from €23,910 with diesel models starting from €26.040. The test car was €27,930 with €4,779 of extras. Optional extras included metallic paint (€671), dynamic chassis control (€857), 18” Machined Alloy wheels (€717), 10” Navigation system (€787) and keyless entry.
So the verdict? The new SEAT Leon is a great mix of space, comfort and fun in a reasonably priced package.
Why you’ll buy one? Practical and fun to drive.
Why you won’t? Heating controls are fiddly.
Rivals
Ford Focus
Volkswagen Golf
Opel Astra
SEAT Leon 1.5TSI 150hp Xcellence
Engine: 1498cc
Max speed: 213km/h
0-100 kph: 8.3 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 113 g/km (€200)
Model price range: From €23,910 (Test Car – €32,709)
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : Not tested
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 5.1 l/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 380 litres (1210)
Car Seats: 2 ISOFIX in the back and one in the front
Length: 4,368mm
Width: 1,800mm
Height: 1,456mm
Wheelbase: 2,686 mm
Visit the Seat Ireland website or its Facebook page or Twitter for further details.
Suzanne Keane
9th November 2020
