Other SEAT Leon (2005 - 2012) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Level headed individual that knows the tuning potential of this car without spending Golf-money.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Absolutely love it. You will statistically find yellow is the best colour.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Without a doubt.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Something even more powerful as standard. Focus RS, BMW 335i, BMW M3, VX220, Lotus Exige... you get the idea.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £8,500

    When did you buy the car?

    February 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Haggled privately.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    It uses the same internals and chassis as the Golf Mk5 and a legendary award-winning engine that doesn't cost as much as a Golf.

    What was the dealer like?

    N/a

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very good. I also own an R50 Mini with sports suspension and the Cupra drives like a Rolls Royce compared to that (too soft suspension for my liking). Remapped with sports exhaust and induction this thing is simply untouchable. The gear change at low revs is a little awkward. Servo assisted brakes are monstrous.

    What's it like to park?

    I've driven hundreds of cars and have to say it's not the easiest. It's average.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Brake servo leak. That was over £700 to fix as the dealer had to lift the engine out to get to it. Apparently it's a common problem. Another big problem is the ECU threw a checksum error which makes an MOT impossible to pass - back again to dealer for expensive software upgrade. You also have to ensure the fuel pump cam follower is replaced as these tend to rupture causing devistation to the engine. This isn't covered under warranty or normal servicing worryingly.

    What's most practical about your car?

    5 doors, good size boot, great motorway muncher.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    My favorite thing is the turbo. Beautiful! Love the driving position too.