SEAT Leon(2005 - )
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The SEAT Leon has a good looks and drives well |
| Engine | Engine power | Fuel consumption | Fuel type | 0-100 (0-60) | Top speed |
| 1.4 MPI | 85 hp | 7 l/100km | Petrol | 13.7 s | 172 km/h |
| 1.6 | 102 hp | 7.5 l/100km | Petrol | 11.7 s | 184 km/h |
| 1.9 TDI | 105 hp | 5.1 l/100km | Diesel | 11.5 s | 185 km/h |
| 2.0 TDI | 140 hp | 5.6 l/100km | Diesel | 9.3 s | 205 km/h |
| 2.0 FSI | 150 hp | 8.1 l/100km | Petrol | 8.8 s | 210 km/h |
| 2.0 TDI | 170 hp | 6 l/100km | Diesel | 8.2 s | 214 km/h |
| 2.0 TFSI | 185 hp | ? | Petrol | 7.4 s | 220 km/h |
| 2.0 TFSI | 200 hp | 7.9 l/100km | Petrol | 7.3 s | 229 km/h |
The SEAT Leon is produced since 2005. It is based on the Volkswagen Golf V platform. The Leon is powered by a number of petrol and diesel engines. The 1.4-liter petrol unit has to be worked hard, while the most popular are the 1.6-liter petrol and the 1.9-liter turbodiesel. Unfortunately the last mentioned has a narrow power band. The 2.0-liter TDI is a good compromise between the power and economy. The sportiest model so far is powered by the 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol, delivering 200 hp, but the 225 hp and 250 hp models are expected. The SEAT Leon has a sharp steering. It is stable and easily controlled at a high speed. Leon's drawback's are that steering does not give enough feedback to the driver and the ride is a bit firm over imperfect roads. Most of the engines are smooth, while the new turbodiesels are surprisingly quiet. Both wind and road noises are well isolated from the cabin. The SEAT Leon is well priced and equipped. It do not keeps it's value as well as the VW Golf, but it's residual values are still strong. Servicing costs of the Leon will cost you virtually the same as the Golf's, but any bodywork is pricier. Inside the Leon everything is made from the high-quality materials and robust fabrics, but the plastics stay hard and rather dull. Driver's position is comfortable thanks to a supportive seats. The steering wheel can be adjusted for the reach and height. Furthermore driver's seat can be adjusted for height. The Drawback of the nice exterior is in windscreen pillars, creating a large blind spot. The SEAT Leon is generous on space for all the passengers. There is plenty of head and legroom at the rear. The boot is average, but it is unsuccessfully shaped and has a high loading lip. All models are completed with an ABS, front, side and curtain airbags are fitted as standard. Remote central locking is also fitted on all cars. It comes in three trim variants. All Leon's come with the front electric windows and air conditioning as standard. The top of the range Sport trim comes with alloy wheels, sport suspension, rear electric windows, cruise control and audio controls placed on the steering wheel. Production of the SEAT Leon still continues.
Advantages: Sharp looks, sharp handling and plenty of space. Disadvantages: Restricted forward visibility. Verdict: Good looking and drives well. Also consider: Ford Focus II, Opel Astra.
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