By John Simpson 16 July 2012
SEAT’s new Leon will hit the UK market before the end of the year.
The third generation of the five-door family hatchback will launch with a choice of five engines – three petrol, two diesel – ranging from 1.2 to 2.0-litres, with fuel consumption improved by up to 22%.
Fleets will most likely be drawn towards the Ecomotive 1.6 TDI option with start/stop, an average fuel return of 74.3 mpg and a CO2 figure of just 99g/km.
Completely redesigned from the ground up, the new Leon combines all the strengths of the SEAT brand like no model has before, said James Muir, President of SEAT S.A.
"With the all-new Leon, we have designed and developed a car which perfectly captures the meaning of ‘Enjoyneering'.
“This compelling mix of design, technology, athletic performance and premium quality is certain to seduce existing customers, as well as bringing a new generation of car-buyers to the brand.”
Longer, lighter
The bodyshell is 90kg lighter than the previous Leon and at 4.26 metres long, is around five centimetres shorter than the outgoing model with a wheelbase wider by almost six centimetres. This provides improved interior space, particularly for rear seat passengers, with 380 litres of luggage space, around 40 litres more than before.
The interior has been designed with the aim of creating an expressive, elegant and welcoming ambience with class-leading material quality and attention to detail.
Trim spec is still being finalised but what we do know is that every Leon will feature a Media System Touch with CD radio, SD card slot, four speakers and a five-inch touch screen.
Higher level trims will include a Media System Colour featuring more in-screen colours and higher quality, with six to eight speakers as standard and Bluetooth, USB or aux-in connections. Its five-inch colour touch screen [pictured left] also controls vehicle functions.
Engine options include a 1.6 and 2.0 diesel, and 1.2, 1.4, 1.8 petrol. Price and exact specifications will be revealed closer to the launch date.
Categories: Fleet news , SEAT
