SEAT's all-new Leon model has gone on sale across its Irish dealership network. Three trim levels can be had from launch - Reference, Style and FR - with prices starting from €18,995.
Exterior
The new Leon is built on Volkswagen's new MQB platform, meaning that while the Leon is 5cm shorter than its predecessor, there is more room inside. In terms of equipment, front fog lamps and 16-inch alloys come as standard on Style models, upgrading to FR gets you 17-inch 'Dynamic' alloys, chrome twin-exhausts, LED lights front and rear (including daytime running lamps) and tinted windows.
Interior
Basic equipment on the Reference model includes air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, a five-inch colour display and ample connectivity including Bluetooth, USB and aux-in. Style models add a leather steering wheel, gearstick and handbrake, rear electric windows and cruise control.
Top-spec FR models get pretty much everything else: auto lights, wipers and dimming rear view mirror, parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, an upgraded stereo with a larger touchscreen and SEAT's Drive Profile. The Drive Profile gives owners the choice between Comfort and Sport modes, each of which adjusts both steering and throttle response and providing either white or red ambient lighting - depending on the selection.
Mechanicals
Two petrol and two diesel engines are available from launch. The 1.2-litre TSI and 1.6-litre TDI units can be had with either the Reference or Style specifications, with the more powerful 1.8-litre TSI and 2.0-litre TDI engines offered exclusively in FR guise. Power outputs range from 86- to 184hp, with a DSG automatic gearbox available with several engines.
Anything else?
Prices for the new Leon start at €18,995 for a 1.2-litre Reference model, and go on to the 2.0-litre TDI FR version at €28,645. The introduction of the new Leon means that SEAT is now offering 12 models in Ireland - the highest number in the company's history.