Like many other core model namesakes - be it Ford and its Focus or Volkswagen and its Golf - the SEAT Leon is gaining another string to its bow, this time in the form of the X-PERIENCE off-road estate.

But this isn't just any old car to SEAT. Oh no. The Spanish carmaker has gone as far as saying, "It's simple. This is the best car we have ever made."

Sitting at the top of the Leon range it joins the Leon SC, five-door hatch, ST estate and Cupra models, offering potential competition to amped up models like the Volkswagen Passat AllTrack and Skoda Octavia Scout.

Its permanent all-wheel-drive system, along with its extra three centimetres of ground clearance and height, distinguish the model from the standard car. Other unique features include new protection mouldings on the door sills and wheel arches, new front and rear bumpers with aluminium touches, twin exhausts and large air intakes at the front.

Performance

There are just two engine derivatives available in the X-PERIENCE range, both of which are 2.0-litre TDI models. These engines are available in the Leon ST range, but the X-PERIENCE is quicker across the benchmark sprint.

The entry level model is a 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI unit, delivering 340Nm of pulling power and a respectably nippy 0-62mph time of 8.7 seconds. All 148bhp models are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Topping the power chart is the 182bhp version of the 2.0-litre TDI engine (£28,870) boasting 380Nm of torque and a benchmark sprint time of 7.1 seconds. The 182bhp engine is only available with a DSG six-speed automatic gearbox.

Both of these engines exceed the power output of the respective 2.0-litre TDI Passat AllTrack competition, with the top performer for the X-PERIENCE delivering 7bhp more and reaching 62mph 1.8 seconds quicker.

Although topping the range, the 182bhp variant doesn't feel distinctively quicker, even though it claims to complete the 0-62mph sprint 1.5 seconds quicker than the 148bhp model.

The 182bhp model is still an all-round competent engine, but it's hard to see why you would have your heart set on the more expensive 182bhp model, other than fancying the DSG gearbox.

Ride and Handling

When it comes to driving off-road, the X-PERIENCE manages to keep its composure over rocky terrain and steep slopes, holding particularly well on descents.

The obvious topic of discussion when it comes to ride and handling of the X-PERIENCE is the new permanent 4Drive all-wheel-drive system. This system features a newly developed fifth-generation Haldex multi-plate clutch with hydraulic actuation and electronic control - which in laymen terms means that if any of the wheels lose traction, torque will be distributed to the wheels with the most grip to avoid losing control of the car - think Range Rover and it's torque on demand system. This new system also helps when towing and gaining traction when starting off on slippery surfaces. But let's get back the basics for a moment. Driving dynamics in the X-PERIENCE are very similar to its other Leon siblings. This means well-weighted and direct steering that manages to keep you engaged with the front wheels even when driving enthusiastically through the twisty stuff. Add this to first class grip levels and minimal body roll, the X-PERIENCE is a blast to drive. The new 4Drive all-wheel-drive system can really be felt when cornering, as you can feel power shifting to the necessary wheels when you embark on a challenging bend. A reassuring feature when navigating mountain passes. The suspension is also impressive, easily soaking up things like speed bumps and, when it calls for it, dire pot holes. Comfort is enhanced further with its highly insulated cabin, which silences road noise - although the slight rumble of the punchy diesel engines cannot be ignored. When it comes to driving off-road, the X-PERIENCE manages to keep its composure over rocky terrain and steep slopes, holding particularly well on descents. Its suspension also steps up to the task - not too firm, not to soft. Although we didn't get to test it in snow, SEAT made a point off saying that the X-PERIENCE performs "particularly well" in this department.

Interior and Equipment

The SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE debuted at the Paris Motor Show, showcased as a sporty Leon ST with off-road ability.

The X-PERIENCE's interior offers enhanced specification over Leon ST models and some bespoke features such as orange trimmings and of course X-PERIENCE badging. There are two kit levels on offer: SE and SE Technology - with DSG variants only available in SE Technology grades. All entry level SE models get dual zone climate control, leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, back roof rails and dark tinted rear windows. Upgrade to SE Technology and you will get DAB radio, sat nav, alcantara leather upholstery, electric folding mirrors and 18-inch 'X-PERIENCE' machined alloy wheels.There is also an optional Lux Pack available for an additional £1,250. This adds the likes of heated front seats, chrome roof rails and an electronically adjustable driver’s seat. Build quality in the cabin is upmarket, with soft touch materials and a saloon-like layout - giving the X-PERIENCE clout when it comes to competing with the German giants. The X-PERIENCE is just as practical as the ST estate, with the same 587 litre boot, which can be extended to 1,470 litres. The seats lie almost completely flat to make loading easier as well. It also inherits the ST's spacious rear seats that deliver plenty of head and leg room, even for lengthy cross country journeys. While impressive, the Leon X-PERIENCE does not trump the Octavia Scout’s 610/1500 litre boot.

Cost

For something with plenty of oomph, the mpg figure is quite impressive, keeping your visits to the fuel forecourts relatively low.

Its starting price is around £7,000 more expensive than the Leon ST and almost £1,000 cheaper than the Skoda Octavia Scout. Even though there is a difference in power, both the 148bhp and 182bhp models carry the same fuel economy, returning a claimed average of 57.6mpg and emitting 129g/km of CO2 emissions. For something with plenty of oomph, the mpg figure is quite impressive, keeping your visits to the fuel forecourts relatively low. All models also come with start/stop technology as standard, to save you a few pennies here and there when idling in traffic.

Our Verdict

With retained practicality, a slightly saucier exterior and some potent diesel engines, the best way to describe the Leon X-PERIENCE is that it's like it’s a more muscular ST estate. The enhanced traction and power ultimately make it more engrossing to drive than the ST, and yet it's comfortable to drive – a credit to the engineering boffins. The VW Passat AllTrack may have German prestige on its side, but the price difference may put some people off. I wouldn’t say it is the best car SEAT has ever made, but it is definitely up there.