In the cluttered, hatchback car market, it's getting increasingly difficult to stand out in a crowd. Fortunately for us, Spanish manufacturer Seat ticks all the boxes with their Seat Leon model. It doesn't try to copy any of its rivals and sensibly sticks to its own unique take on what a hatchback car should be.
Small and perfectly formed, this is a very attractive car that will appeal to everyone. Aesthetically pleasing both inside and out, it is fast becoming a very popular model with car hire and leasing services, as it combines its good looks with reliability and good fuel consumption.
The bodywork is cool and sleek, with clean lines and a deceptively large interior. For a long time the Volkswagen Golf has been the benchmark for this car class and it's great news that Seat are now challenging their supremacy with the Leon. The handles on the rear doors are a lift up square of steel bearing the Seat logo; this is a clever design feature and is pleasing on the eye, as many a car's profile has been spoilt by unsightly door handles.
The cabin is minimalistic and uncluttered, which makes for comfort and ease of driving. There is plenty of room for even the tallest of drivers to feel comfortable, without compromising the comfort of the passengers in the spacious back seat. The seats find just the right balance of comfort and support, essential if taking the car on a long drive. The dark fabric interior and high window line have in other cars given the impression of being boxed in; thanks to the layout of the Seat Leon it doesn't encroach on the impression of spaciousness at all.
When it comes to comparing the Leon with some of its rivals, its very good to see that Seat include as standard some features that you would have to pay extra for from other manufacturers. These include dual zone climate controlled air conditioning and a built in tyre pressure monitors, which check your tyres when you start the engine and alert you if the pressure is too high or too low.
It's a tough little car which, in testing, has withstood vigorous knocks and impacts in simulated accident environments. The addition of 6 airbags is also a welcome bonus. It feels strong while you are driving it, no mean feat in a car that it a lot lighter than its peers. It drives very smoothly and the manual gear box is also very comfortable to use.
As one of the main selling points of Seat's marketing campaigns is the sportiness of its cars, it comes as no surprise to hear the rawness of the engine when you switch on the ignition. Underneath the bonnet sits the sporty 1.4 TSi engine, the low capacity of the is petrol driven engine gives you a lot of power while at the same time results in lower carbon monoxide emissions as well as a enviable fuel economy of 44.1 mpg. You also have 124bhp and 0-60 in 9.7 seconds.
This mean machine has an awful lot going for it. Its RRP is cheaper than its rivals and it doesn't depreciate rapidly the minute you drive it off the forecourt. The hatchback gives plenty of room to easily fit in suitcases or a large grocery shop. The sporty design of both the body and the engine gives you a feeling that you are driving a sports car, but without the unpredictable steering issues that are often reported.
This is one of those rare roadsters that are appreciated by both the longstanding, experienced driver as well as those who have just passed their test. This is a car that is going to be around for a long time to come. Whether driving around town or giving it a really long run on a motorway, the Leon looks good, handles well and is a dream to drive.
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Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services by John Eva
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