Seat Leon Hatchback 2002 - Present

I first drove the Seat Leon in 2002 after a weekend in a BMW 330i. I was astonished at the level of performance on offer from the Spanish firefly. The Leon gripped the road like it was on rails, stopped on a sixpence and had an acceleration performance that would have troubled much more expensive cars.

Based on the chassis of the VW Golf the Leon came to the table with impressive pedigree and has consistently built on that heritage. The current crop (2005 on), look like a brooding race car.

Under the bonnet the engines start at a 1.6 100 bhp model which while not ruffling too many feathers is a good starting point. There are two 2.0 engines; the normally aspirated engine delivers 150 bhp and the turbo model 185 bhp. The turbo model offers 0-60 6.4 seconds while getting to it's top speed of 155 mph. All very impressive figures, but the real genius of the Leon range is demonstrated by the diesel range. At the top of which sits the 2.0 litre TDI, offering 170 bhp and a 0-60 of 8.2 seconds all the while giving back fuel figures of 47 mpg. Not to be overlooked in these days of one pound per litre fuel. All but one of the engines come with the very good six speed box, transmitting the power with ease.

As with the Leon of five years ago the new Leon offers a sensational drive really inspiring confidence and a feel for the road. It corners precisely while encouraging the driver to experience a deeper level of driving. Passengers beware you'll soon feel alone as the driver focuses on the pleasure that driving a Leon brings. As the engines range from competent to down right amazing you are virtually guaranteed a great time each time you go out in the car and may even find yourself making excuses to take the car out again.

Inside the car the seats are firm with good support. The room all round is good for the size of car with ample head and leg room for four adults, although five would be a bit of a squeeze, close friends only.

All in all the Leon has to be considered for anyone who is looking to buy a small family car. They have an excellent range of engines and offer a fun assured drive, sporty if you like, but solid regardless.

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