Seat Leon review

From £20,400

An all-new Seat Leon was launched in 2020. It's the best one yet. It looks better than the car it's based on, the Volkswagen Golf, as well...

  • Seat Leon 2020

For: Just like a Golf

Against: Isn’t a Golf

Verdict: One of the best all-rounders in the family hatchback class

MODEL NEWS

  • January 2021: Leon named AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2021
  • September 2020: Entry-level Leon SE takes prices below £20k

VERDICT

The Spanish Volkswagen Golf is now prettier than the German one. It’s certainly sportier-looking, with a more focused interior. Otherwise, beneath the surface, it’s identical. Pretty compelling, given how you’re paying thousands less for the privilege.

Engines are superb. The 1.0 TSI is enough, and the 1.5 TSI is a great all-rounder with cylinder deactivation to deliver excellent economy. You don’t need a diesel.

Comfort isn’t quite Golf-like – the ride is firmer, particularly on FR models with lower suspension – but handling is confident. The Leon also has the same ultra-secure, high-quality feeling of robustness you get in a Golf. It’s a definite cut above.

The roomy interior is comfortable, even if the infotainment is as overburdened as a Golf’s. Seat is a bit more generous with standard equipment, and you’ll want an FR for its stylish trim and bolstered seats.

The Seat Leon is the perfect family hatch for those who think the latest Volkswagen Golf just a bit… awkward-looking. Awkward.

KEY INFO

  • Launched: 2020
  • Facelifted: Not yet
  • Due for replacement: Not imminent

Specs
Model: Seat Leon
Prices from: £20,400
Engines: 1.0 TSI 110, 1.5 TSI Evo 130, 1.5 TSI 150, 2.0 TDI 115, 1.4 eHybrid 204
Fuel type: Petrol, Diesel, Plug-in hybrid
Gearboxes: 6-speed manual, 7-speed DSG
Bodystyles: Hatchback, Estate
Trims: SE, SE Dynamic, FR, FR Sport, Xcellence, Xcellence Lux
Euro NCAP:
(2020)
Power: 110-204 hp
0-62mph: 8.4-10.9 secs
Fuel economy: 47.9-64.2 mpg
CO2: 111-135 g/km
Dimensions (l/w/h): 4,368/1,800/1,442
Boot capacity: 380 litres
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles
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