We say Knocks a couple of grand off list price of some of its more illustrious rivals; dynamic and distinct but a little less solid all-round.Performance Loads of engines to choose from, depending on whether you're looking for economy or thrills. Diesels offer something in the middle. FR churns out 200bhp and is rammed full of torque making for an excellent drivers engine and an enjoyable drive.Emissions Seat is improving its reputation in terms of fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures courtesy of its Ecomotive eco-signature. With the eco-treatment, the Spanish manufacturer’s 103bhp 1.6-litre TDI returns 74mpg and emits 99g/km which means tax free driving.Driving Superb cornering, body control and handling combined with a smooth ride make the Leon a brilliant and fun hatchback. Sports suspension is on the harsh side but delivers more driving thrills.Feel Lower-rated diesel and petrol models make their presences known, but engines are generally quiet. The ride of the Sports suspension is harsh and crashy.Space There’s plenty of room inside the Leon with lots of head and legroom for all passengers although it’s a push to seat three large adults in the rear seats comfortably. At the back there’s a decent 341-litre boot which is average in the segment but it does benefit from split folding seats, increasing load capacity to 1,305-litres.Equipment Electric front windows and central locking are standard, as is a CD player. Air conditioning comes fitted on all other models. Sport models get lots of flashy and impressive kit and equipment.Price List prices kick off at a reasonable £14,000 and running costs are low with the manufacturer’s efficient engines. Diesels are likely to be more expensive however you will reap the rewards in terms of running costs and eventual residual values.Quality Seat’s are often let down by their interiors which tend to look quite cheap and dull and that’s the case with the Leon. There’s a lot of shiny, black plastic and not a lot of soft-touch materials. It is solid though and typically robust.Safety Six airbags, ABS and stability control are standard, as are ISOFIX child seat fittings.Pros The Leon is an affordable alternative to other more established hatchbacks on the market. It’s excellent to drive and has an impressive diesel engine under the bonnet.Cons The petrol engines are thirsty and the smaller examples feel slightly underpowered. The cabin is cheap, with too much hard plastic, and equipment levels are tight.Alternatives Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, Renault Megane, Citroen C4
