SEAT Leon review

The new SEAT Leon is a family car, along the same lines as a Ford Focus or Toyota Corolla, but with sporty-looking bodywork and lots of hi-tech equipment. It’s a little bit like shopping at Sainsbury’s.

That’s because the SEAT Leon, VW Golf and Audi A3 are all very similar under the skin, but they all carry very different badge kudos. The A3 is like shopping at Waitrose, the Golf is like M&S and the Leon is another rung down at Sainsbury’s. Yet, like with supermarkets, the things on offer are largely the same, despite different branding.

The Leon might not have a VW badge, but it looks just as sharp as a Golf, if not even better. The triangular daytime-running lights signify SEAT’s unified look, along with the angular grille that looks a bit like the Tarraco SUV’s.

FR trim adds even more sporty additions but all versions look good, as there are more creases in the bodywork than the VW Golf gets, and the Leon’s rear end comes with a Porsche-esque full-width brake light.

The SEAT Leon’s interior has a minimalist feel, so it’s very modern. For example, automatic models have a tiny gear selector, but all cars have a stand-out touchscreen display with lots of great features and cool-looking air vents. It’s well-built and looks good, too.

The standard screen is good but the optional 10-inch display is worth paying for. It’s just a shame about the fiddly touchscreen-based air-con controls.

Just like the previous Leon it’s easy to find a good driving position as there’s a good amount of adjustment in the seats, and plenty of space in the cabin. In fact, the new Leon is a better car for families than ever because there’s loads of space in the back seats. Even adults will be comfy in the rear.

The SEAT Leon looks really sporty and fun, but it’s not as fun as a Ford Focus. I prefer the VW Golf’s interior, too.

Petrol and diesel engine options are good to see, as everyone has different circumstances. The best overall is the 150hp 1.5-litre petrol – it’s punchy, smooth and economical enough. The diesel engines make more sense for high-mileage drivers, though.

There’s also a plug-in hybrid version that’s worth considering if you have somewhere to charge it and you do lots of driving in town, where it can use its electric motor more of the time.

All versions of the SEAT Leon have light steering, which makes them easy to manoeuvre in tight city streets. A tighter turning circle than a Golf means it’s good for driving in the city, though visibility could be better and you need to rely on the parking sensors to stay safe.

The sporty looks might lead you to believe that it’s more fun than it actually is on country roads. A Ford Focus is a whole lot better from a keen driver’s perspective.

At least it’s quiet and smooth on the motorway and even the sportier FR models with their slightly stiffer suspension are comfortable even over potholes.

The SEAT Leon is a good all-rounder, with lots of space inside, a comfortable drive and plenty of kit included. We reckon a Golf is better, but then it’s also more expensive. If you think the Leon is for you, check out the latest SEAT Leon deals.