Seat Leon: Underrated Spaniard

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

In the compact class, the Seat Leon has a difficult time. The top version turns out to be a classy sports car.

Stefan Zaumseil

In the compact class, the Seat Leon leads a shadowy existence, although like the market leader Golf, it also comes from the Volkswagen Group. Drivers with sporty ambitions should take a close look at the Seat Leon. The most powerful TDI variant, Top Sport, has an output of 150 hp.

Unspectacular design

The design is full of dynamism, but even at second glance it is unspectacular. The bonnet is pulled down low, the narrow headlights and the large air inlets in the front apron of the Top Sport underline the sporty design. But the Seat designers could have trusted themselves a little more. However, the rear of the Leon is pleasing. Behind the wide opening trunk lid there is space for 340 to 1040 liters. The back seat can be easily folded down.

The interior is as sporty as the exterior design. Fittings and controls - everything is in its place. The sports seats are great and can be ideally adjusted for any body size. It is much tighter in the rear. The seats are also pleasantly contoured here. But more than two people feel uncomfortable in the Leon Fond. Leg and headroom pay tribute to the sporty design.

Convincing engine

The 1.9 TDI engine is designed for dynamism. Thanks to pump-nozzle technology, the turbodiesel produces 110 KW / 150 PS from a displacement of 1.9 liters. The powerful four-cylinder makes the Leon a sporty vehicle with a maximum torque of 320 Nm at 2000 rpm. Subjectively, it is even more so, because the forces pull extremely vehemently on the front axle and steering wheel. All-wheel drive would suit the most powerful TDI better. The driving performance meets the high expectations. Measured top speed of 220 km / h, 0 to 100 km / h in just under nine seconds. Impressive data, especially because the average thirst in the practical test was pleasantly within limits with around 6.8 liters of diesel despite dynamic driving style. Unfortunately, environmental protection shows itself to be out of date. Neither particle filters nor the Euro 4 class. Here you have to wait for the successor model.

All-wheel drive desirable

This force is best absorbed by the chassis. The steering works precisely in every speed range. The front-wheel drive and the standard ESP alone put an end to the pilot's thirst for action. The 17-inch tires, however, usually bring enough power to the road. The six-speed gearbox also matches the sporty character. The gears can be inserted playfully and are well graduated. Thanks to the powerful torque, you can also drive lazily. The brakes are great.

Electric mirrors only at an additional cost

The Seat Leon is available in five different equipment variants. Top Sport is also visually dynamic. Sporty rocker panels, 17-inch alloy wheels and four airbags are just as standard as air conditioning, partial leather trim, CD sound system, on-board computer, fog lamps and sports suspension. It makes sense to upgrade the equipment with heated seats (340 euros), automatic air conditioning (210 euros) and navigation system (from 1700 euros).

The price for the Seat Leon 1.9 TDI Top Sport is a fair 21,780 euros. It is annoying that electric rear windows and electric mirrors cost 335 euros extra.