Volkswagen Golf or SEAT Leon?

I am replacing a 2005 Ford Focus. In all that I have driven I find the Volkswagen Golf comes closest.

I have yet to try the SEAT Leon. How do you compare them? There are so many different styles and prices in both that it is confusing.

I want a post-2008 diesel, and a comfortable seat is a must! There is a new SEAT Leon 1.9-litre Sport Limited Edition 105hp diesel, Tax Band B, reduced by €2,000 to €19,900 or a new Golf 1.6 TDI diesel 105hp for €21,200. Is there much difference in running costs between a 1.6-litre and 1.9-litre?

Angela Osullivan (Wicklow)

May 2010 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hello again Angela,

I know Shane answered your last question, but I think I can answer your follow up question. The Golf and Leon are quite similar; the Leon is definitely the prettier car and the Golf the more sensible. I know what you mean about the Leon range, as there are 17 different versions, which seems excessive.

The thing is with SEAT is that it tends to get the older technology from Volkswagen, so the Leon still has an older engine range, namely the 1.9-litre TDI, which is quite a noisy old engine. The 2.0-litre TDI is also available in the Leon, but at a higher cost.

The 1.6-litre 105hp engine in the Golf is a newer and cleaner engine, with better fuel economy. It hasn't made it to the Leon just yet, so the better engine is in the Golf right now.

In terms of running costs, the road tax is slightly less on the Golf, at €104 against the €156 in the Leon. The Golf has slightly better fuel economy (62.8mpg v 56.5mpg) but that is a relatively small difference.

That Leon is great value, but in terms of an investment I would be inclined to go with the Golf, as I would think the residual value will be better with the newer Golf with the newer engine.

Hope that helps

Complete Car Adviser