8:00am Saturday 26th June 2010
WITH so much fresh talent in the family hatch sector, the Seat Leon’s pre-eminence was under pressure until a fresher version arrived.
It came with new engines, improved economy and emissions together with more style and practicality to put the Leon firmly back among the top contenders.
The five-door Leon produces the goods behind the wheel and the fact that it looks so good is a big bonus.
With prices starting around £14,000, it represents value for money when compared to leading rivals. In fact, its quality of construction, classy interior and generous equipment levels are often better than rivals.
Seat’s choice of motors and trim specifications are wide and among the best of the power trains are the latest TSi petrol and common rail diesel units which are great to drive as well as being easy on the pocket.
Sitting below the hot Cupra in the Leon line-up is the FR model designed to blend sporty performance with excellent economy.
Powered by VW’s 2.0-litre turbo diesel – a similar unit to that fitted in the VW Golf GTD – the FR gets another string to its bow because this motor is a cracker, being smoother and quieter than the engine it replaces. It’s quick, too, and has impressive flexibility for an oil burner.
Producing 170PS at 4,200rpm, the FR will show a lot of rivals a clean pair of heels as it can accelerate from nought to 62mph in 8.2 seconds and go on to reach a top speed of 133mph. Its strong pulling power up through the gears makes it a safe and rapid car for overtaking.
Economy is impressive, too, with figures of 53.3mpg for everyday motoring and 64.2mpg on the open road.
There are plenty of fast cars in the hatch market but few are really good driver’s cars like the Leon FR.
Its slick six-speed manual gearbox enables fast changes which will be appreciated by the press-on driver.
And for those with an eye on the pocket, there is a handy gearshift indicator on the dash which lets you know the best time to change.
Much like its predecessors, the Leon’s handling is exceedingly good. Communicative steering, superb balance and an alert feel make every drive a joy. It sits on the VW Golf’s well-sorted chassis and with the help of the sports suspension body roll is virtually eliminated.
The powerful ABS brakes, traction control and other electronic safety devices ensure the Leon’s manners remain gentlemanly when being hurried along twisty routes.
The safety-conscious motorist is catered for with numerous airbags, an electronic differential lock and an electronic stability programme with emergency brake assist.
As one might expect, the sports suspension is decidedly firm but the car shows that it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, especially as the ride gets some assistance from the exclusive sports seats which are supportive and provide particularly good lumbar support. From the driver’s seat the big raked windscreen gives an excellent view of the road ahead but the supporting pillars can sometimes hamper visibility.
Inside, there is now more space and headroom thanks to a high roof. The boot is large for family use, though the access is not necessarily as good as some of the opposition.
Cruise and climate controls and a touch screen centre console are standard.
AT-A-GLANCE
Seat Leon FR 2.0-litre TDi CR.
Price: £19,490 (on the road).
Top speed: 133mph.
0-62mph: 8.2 seconds.
Fuel: 53.3mpg (combined figure).
CO2 emissions (g/km): 139.
Verdict: Accomplished package, refined, spacious, practical with economy and driving flair.
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