Much of the Seat Leon’s recent sales success has been attributed to the number of SUVs in the company’s lineup, the Ateca, the Arona and most recently the Taraco. The contribution of the MK3 Leon, their family hatchback that managed to shift over one million units since it was introduced, has helped in the jump to the Mark 4 evolution.
The design of the MK4 has added space in the rear cabin with the overall shape of the car creating 8% more dynamic efficiency than the MK3 Leon’s at the rear. There’s an evolution of the Leon’s tail light signature complete with dynamic lights and a new Leon badge which replicates handwritten script that will be rolled out across all models. The FR version gets a rear diffuser and thick twin exhaust pipes for a sportier look.
Under the skin is the MQB platform that underpins most of the VW Group model range. There are some new engines, albeit options that mirror those of the recently launched MK8 VW Golf.
The range will start with a 3 cylinder 1 litre petrol engine with 110 BHP from €23,910 in SE trim with 16″ Alloys, 8″ Media System, LED Lighting, Air-Conditioning, Seat Connect, Adaptive Cruise Control and Light Assist.
Then there’s a 1.5 litre four-cylinder unit with either 150 bhp and a 2 litre engine with 150 bhp. There are also two 2-litre diesels with either 113 BHP or 148 BHP. The standard gearbox is a 6-speed manual but the petrol engines can all be ordered with an automatic and this transmission also opens up the possibility to add 48 volt mild hybrid technology on several versions to boost efficiency.
For those who are looking to cut fuel bills, the range will also include a petrol based plug-in hybrid edition that can travel up to 50 KMs on electricity alone. The infotainment screen now sits in front of the fascia, the top spec 10 inch system complete with the same sliding controllers for temperature and volume available on the latest golf.
The digital instrument panel is standard on all but the entry level models. Ambient lighting is also available and will incorporate emergency signals such as flashing the interior strip light if it really needs to get your attention quickly for blind spot warnings or if it senses oncoming traffic as you’re reversing out of a parking space.
Boot space remains unchanged at 380 litres with 617 litres available in the estate model. Unfortunately there’s no return for the three-door models anymore.