SEAT Leon Hatchback (05 on) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
Last Updated: 07 December 2009
SEAT has a reputation for producing sporty cars based on reliable Volkswagen components and the Leon shows the company at its best. It may be based on the Golf but you'd never know from the looks - it's distinctive and athletic with some neat touches like the concealed rear door handles which make it appear like a coupe. The sporty styling is reflected in the handling - the Leon is sharp, precise and great fun to drive - even with the more modest powerplants. It's good value too, however some of the interior plastics feel a little cheap and the older diesel engines, especially the 1.9 TDI, are on the noisy side. In 2009 the Leon was revised with subtle exterior changes, a more sophisticated interior and new engines. There are also Ecomotive models, some of which qualify for free road tax.
4 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Buying new

Don't be afraid to ask for a discount on a new Leon, however the car is well equipped and competitively priced so don't expect a huge amount off. SEAT often has offers including free equipment upgrades or finance deals so it's worth keeping an eye out for these. The 1.4 TSI engine may sound small but it's impressively quick so don't dismiss it until you've been on a test drive. The Ecomotive is the low emissions model and is free to tax, but confusingly there is also an Ecomotive Technology model. It has slightly higher emissions but road tax is still cheap, plus there is no limit on optional extras (unlike the Ecomotive) so you can choose larger alloy wheels if you want.

Buy a new SEAT Leon Hatchback and save 21% on selected models

4 out of 5

Buying used

The Leon makes a great value used buy and is a cheaper but more stylish alternative to the Volkswagen Golf. If you want economy the early 1.9 TDI is the engine to go for - but be aware that it's not particularly smooth or quiet. This was replaced in 2010 by a much more refined and economical 1.6 TDI which also powers the 99g/km Ecomotive model. For everyday driving the 1.6-litre petrol is more than adequate. Entry-level models are fairly well equipped with air con and electric front windows so there are no spartan cars around - however Reference Sport (effectively replaced by Stylance and then SE) models offer more creature comforts. Revised models were introduced in July 2009 so the earliest examples will be on an 09-plate. They aren't that different to look at but the main changes are more angular rear lights and a smoother front bumper. They also ride and drive better.

  • Boot/Load Space SEAT Leon Hatchback (05 on)
  • Interior SEAT Leon Hatchback (05 on)

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See 394 used SEAT Leon Hatchbacks for sale, starting at £3,995

3.5 out of 5

Selling

A less common sight than the Focus or Golf, the Leon will appeal to younger buyers looking for something stylish and a little different. The diesels will naturally command more than the petrols but any Leon will sell easily - especially the sporty models and those with alloy wheels.