SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020) Review
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SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020) At A Glance
Quality and refinement are impressive. Great to drive with sharp handling. Shares same base as contemporary Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf.
Ride can have a firm edge on lower trim models.
The third-generation SEAT Leon elevated itself to the top table of family hatches. It delivered big on driving fun, quality, space, equipment and looks, which made it a serious alternative to the Ford Focus and fellow big seller the Vauxhall Astra, as well as stablemates the Volkswagen Golf and even the Audi A3 Sportback. Read on for our full SEAT Leon review.
This SEAT Leon hatch built on the reputation of the previous two by being good value for money and fun to drive. The interior was of a higher quality and there was greater attention to detail.
It shares up to half of its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 of the same age, and as a result uses a wide range of Volkswagen Group petrol and diesel engines.
The SEAT Leon is available with the familiar four-cylinder TDI and TSI units all featuring direct injection and turbocharging.
The version powered by a 1.6 TDI diesel with 105PS is the cleanest model in the range. Thanks to a start/stop system and brake energy regeneration, it averages a claimed 74.3mpg, with CO2 emissions at 99g/km meaning zero VED.
On the road, it’s good to drive with sporty handling and genuine agility with the SEAT Leon FR using a SEAT Drive Profile which lets you vary the characteristics of the steering, throttle response and the engine sound via a sound actuator in the exhaust.
Other new systems included a drowsiness detection feature, Full Beam Assistant, which switches automatically between full and dipped beam, and a lane-keeping assistant, which makes slight corrections to the steering to prevent the driver from crossing over lane markings.
SEAT made big improvements inside, an area which had often been the focus of complaints on previous SEAT Leons. The fit, finish and attention to detail are as good as a Volkswagen Golf and better than many other cars in the used market.
It’s simple and unfussy and comes with an ‘Easy Connect’ operating system, which controls the entertainment and communication function via a touch-sensitive screen.
Check out our review of the latest SEAT Leon here.
Reviews for SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020)'s top 3 rivals
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SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.0 TSI 115 to 2.0 TSI 190 DSG
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 28–74 mpg
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Handling and ride quality
Out on the road, it doesn’t really matter which SEAT Leon you opt for, as they’re all great to drive, with light responsive steering, good body control and agile handling.
This SEAT Leon is 90kg lighter than the one that went before and that shines through.
There are two suspension set-ups, depending on which engine you choose. Cars with less than 148PS get a standard set-up, whereas those with more power get a fully independent system, while FR-badged cars have a lowered ride height and stiffer setting for better handling.
As you’d expect, the FRs are the firmest SEAT Leons, but the ride is surprisingly comfortable.
There may be a crash here and there on uneven roads, but they generally ride well and don’t feel noticeably harsher than the other models in the range.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Engines
A big tick for the SEAT Leon is the broad variety of engines that were available from launch.
Those who cover lower mileages are catered for with a 1.2-litre TSI (105PS) and a 1.4-litre TSI (140PS).
Both of these turbocharged engines are cracking; willing, great around town and more powerful than their meagre outputs suggests.
SEAT also offered diesels, including the low CO2 option 1.6 TDI with 99g/km CO2. It cruises well on the motorway, but with its power delivered low down, it’s harder work around town.
Many people will opt for the 2.0 TDI with 150PS. It strikes a great balance between economy and performance and, with a wide band of power, is good fun to drive out on the open road.
Economy is quoted at 68.9mpg, which sounds impressive, but our Real MPG data suggests 50mpg is more likely.
Then there are the engines that go in the sporty FR versions – a 1.8-litre TSI (180PS) for the petrol and a 2.0-litre TDI with 184PS. Both would easily pass as hot hatches in another manufacturer’s range, but this is the starting point for sporty SEAT Leons.
The four-cyilnder diesel is especially noteworthy for its smooth wave of power and all-round refinement. Even more powerful SEAT Leon Cupra models were also offered and are reviewed separately.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Safety
All SEAT Leons of this generation come with ESC traction control, tyre pressure monitoring, driver and passenger airbag, front side and curtain airbags and driver’s knee airbag.
In late 2016, the SEAT Leon’s safety kit was uprated with the addition of automatic emergency braking for all models.
The SEAT Leon Cupra Lux gained a safety pack with driver fatigue warning, while the SEAT Leon Xcellence Lux model benefited from lane assist, traffic sign recognition tech and high beam assist as standard.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Towing
No official figure is quoted for this generation of SEAT Leon when it comes to hitching up with an unbraked trailer.
With a braked trailer, the SEAT Leon can pull between 1400 and 1600kg depending on the engine and model you choose.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 TSI 115 | 58–64 mpg | 9.6–9.8 s | 102–112 g/km |
| 1.0 TSI 115 DSG Ecomotive | 64 mpg | 9.6 s | 102 g/km |
| 1.0 TSI 115 Ecomotive | 64 mpg | - | 102 g/km |
| 1.2 TSI 105 | 58 mpg | 10.2 s | 114 g/km |
| 1.2 TSI 105 DSG | 58 mpg | 10.2 s | 112 g/km |
| 1.2 TSI 110 | 57–58 mpg | 9.9 s | 114–116 g/km |
| 1.2 TSI 110 DSG | 57–58 mpg | 9.9 s | 112–114 g/km |
| 1.2 TSI 110 Ecomotive | 57 mpg | 9.9 s | 116 g/km |
| 1.4 EcoTSI 125 | 54 mpg | - | 120 g/km |
| 1.4 EcoTSI 150 | 58 mpg | 8.0 s | 110–114 g/km |
| 1.4 EcoTSI 150 DSG | 58 mpg | 8.0 s | 109–115 g/km |
| 1.4 TSI 125 | 44–54 mpg | 9.1 s | 120–124 g/km |
| 1.4 TSI 140 | 53 mpg | 8.2 s | 119 g/km |
| 1.5 TSI 130 | 55–57 mpg | 9.4 s | 111–116 g/km |
| 1.5 TSI 150 | 53–55 mpg | 8.2 s | 117–120 g/km |
| 1.5 TSI 150 DSG | 54–55 mpg | 8.3 s | 115–117 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 105 | 74 mpg | 10.7 s | 99 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 105 DSG | 72 mpg | 10.7 s | 102 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 110 | 69–79 mpg | 10.5 s | 87–103 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 110 DSG | 71–72 mpg | 10.5 s | 99–102 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 110 Ecomotive | 71–79 mpg | 10.5 s | 87–94 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 115 | 66–71 mpg | 9.8 s | 105–111 g/km |
| 1.6 TDI 115 DSG | 67–71 mpg | 9.8–10.2 s | 106–109 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI | 47 mpg | 7.5 s | 138–139 g/km |
| 1.8 TSI DSG | 49 mpg | 7.2 s | 132–134 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 150 | 64–66 mpg | 8.4–8.5 s | 106–117 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 150 DSG | 63–64 mpg | 8.4 s | 112–118 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 | 63–66 mpg | 7.5 s | 112–118 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 DSG | 60–63 mpg | 7.5 s | 117–120 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 190 DSG | 46 mpg | 7.2 s | 141 g/km |
Real MPG average for the SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
81%
Real MPG
28–74 mpg
MPGs submitted
1142
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020) interior
- Boot space is 380–1210 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4263–4282 mm |
| Width | 1816–1975 mm |
| Height | 1444–1459 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2631–2636 mm |
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Practicality
This SEAT Leon has a wheelbase that is almost 6cm longer than its predecessor, which is good news for interior space, particularly for rear seat passengers. At 380 litres, the boot increased in size by 40 litres, too.
The rear seat is divided 60-40 and is easy to tumble down to leave a large, mostly uninterrupted cargo floor.
As well as plenty of room for rear passengers and luggage, the SEAT Leon looks after those in the front very well, too.
The driving position has more than enough adjustment for anyone to get comfortable while head, leg and shoulder space are all generous.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Quality and finish
Interior quality is one area that has often let the SEAT Leon and other SEATs down, but that wasn’t the case with this car.
The plastics have a better look and feel to them, there’s a higher attention to detail and it has much more of an upmarket feel – especially on SE spec and above.
It’s almost up to the standards set by the Volkswagen Golf, and certainly better than a number of its rivals. In fact, with back-lit door handles and chrome surrounds on switches on higher models, the inspiration of stablemate Audi is clear.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Infotainment
Whichever SEAT Leon of this generation that you choose, there is some form of colour infotainment screen to be found in the centre of the dash.
In base S models, this is a simple five-inch screen with shortcut buttons on either side, while higher spec variants received a 6.5-inch screen.
In 2016, a facelifted SEAT Leon arrived with a new eight-inch touchscreen that is the same as that used on the Volkswagen Golf of the same period.
It’s bright and much better to use than the latest crop of Volkswagen Group infotainment systems, even if there are not as many functions.
However, it's easy to pair with your phone, has shortcut buttons, and works with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020) value for money
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Prices
An eight-year-old SEAT Leon with the excellent 1.2 TSI petrol engine can be yours from £8500, which bags an SE trim with the Technology Pack and around 70,000 miles covered.
For £1000 more, you can have the same trim and mileage, but with the frugal 1.6-litre turbodiesel motor.
Look for a four-year-old SEAT Leon and you’ll pay from around £11,000 for a 1.0 TSI petrol model, while a quicker FR version will require from £12,500 for a 1.5 TSI model with 30,000 miles completed.
SEAT Leon (2013 – 2020): Running Costs
If fuel economy tops your priority list, the 1.6 TDI turbodiesel is the engine for you. It can return up to a claimed 74.3mpg and later versions also qualify to drive into low-emissions zones without any penalty charge.
The popular 2.0 TDI diesel can return up to 65.7mpg, but reckon on a real-world 50mpg. Or you could go for a petrol, with the 1.2 TSI returning 57.6mpg under the newer WLTP economy testing measures.
Earlier SEAT Leons will have their road tax worked out based on the carbon dioxide emissions of the engine, which favours the 1.6 turbodiesel, with output as low as 99g/km meaning free road tax.
Cars registered from 1 April 2017 will all pay Vehicle Excise Duty at the flat rate of £180 per year.
Insurance for a SEAT Leon is in groups 12 to 26, although most are at the lower end of the spectrum. It’s only the sportier FR models with the larger capacity engines that edge to the top of this scale.
Servicing and maintenance of the SEAT Leon costs much the same as for a Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus, so it should not upset your budgeting decisions.
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The SEAT Leon S model comes with 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, front electric windows, air- conditioning, colour media system with CD player, Bluetooth, six speakers and remote auto controls.
There’s also ESC with tyre pressure monitoring, driver and passenger airbag, front side and curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag and an alarm and remote central locking.
The SEAT Leon SE adds ambient interior spot lighting, a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, chrome dashboard detailing, front foglights with cornering, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, SEAT’s XDS electronic differential lock system and hill hold control.
With the SEAT Leon FR models, you have 17-inch alloy wheels, redesigned front and rear bumpers, twin chrome exhaust pipes, dark tinted windows, front sports seats, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.
It also provides LED tail lights, sports suspension and SEAT Drive Profile. This lets the driver alter the characteristic of the power steering, giving it more or less resistance, as well as the throttle sensitivity, and in DSG-equipped cars it alters the gear shift pattern.
From late 2016, SEAT updated the Leon range. The SEAT Leon S remained the entry point, while the SEAT Leon SE Dynamic was much the same as the earlier SE but with larger wheels.
A SEAT Leon SE Technology model arrived with rear parking sensors, full LED headlights and wireless phone charging, plus Traffic Jam Assist.
The SEAT Leon FR stayed remained in station, but there was now the SEAT Leon Xcellence trim with Alcantara and leather upholstery as an option, ambient cabin lighting, LED lights and keyless entry and ignition.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4263–4282 mm |
| Width | 1816–1975 mm |
| Height | 1444–1459 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2631–2636 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1197–1390 kg |
| Boot Space | 380–1210 L |
| Warranty | 2 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £15,850–£29,975 |
| Insurance Groups | 12–26 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–F |
| Official MPG | 44.4–78.5 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until December 2020
On sale until October 2019
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.5 TSI Evo 130 FR Sport EZ 5dr | £23,580 | 55.4 mpg | 9.4 s |
| 1.5 TSI Evo 150 FR Sport EZ 5dr | £25,195 | 53.3 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 1.5 TSI Evo FR Sport EZ DSG 5dr | £26,545 | 54.3 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 1.6 TDI 115 SE Dynamic EZ DSG 5dr | £21,650 | 68.9 mpg | 10.2 s |
| 1.6 TDI 115 SE EZ DSG 5dr | £20,885 | 70.6 mpg | 10.2 s |
| 2.0 TDI 150 FR Sport EZ 5dr | - | - | - |
| 2.0 TDI 150 FR Sport EZ DSG 5dr | - | - | - |
| 2.0 TSI 190 FR EZ DSG 5dr | £25,680 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 2.0 TSI 190 FR Sport EZ DSG 5dr | £27,830 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 2.0 TSI 190 Xcellence EZ DSG 5dr | £27,310 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 2.0TSI 190 Xcellence Lux EZ DSG 5dr | £28,135 | 45.6 mpg | 7.2 s |
On sale until February 2019
On sale until September 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 150 FR Technology DSG 5dr | £24,370 | 62.8 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI 150 SE Dynamic Technology 5dr | £20,345 | 64.2 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI 150 SE Technology 5dr | £21,275 | 64.2 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TDI 150 Xcellence Technology DSG 5dr | £25,020 | 62.8 mpg | 8.4 s |
On sale until April 2017
On sale until July 2015
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| S 1.2 TSI 110 5dr | £16,115 | 57.6 mpg | 9.9 s |
| S 1.6 TDI 105 5dr | £17,815 | 74.3 mpg | 10.7 s |
| SE 1.6 TDI 105 dr | £18,935 | 74.3 mpg | 10.7 s |
| SE 1.6 TDI 105 DSG Auto 5dr | £20,185 | 72.4 mpg | 10.7 s |
On sale until June 2014
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| FR 1.4 TSI 140 5dr | £19,565 | 53.3 mpg | 8.2 s |
| S 1.2 TSI 105 5dr | £15,850 | 57.6 mpg | 10.2 s |
| SE 1.2 TSI 105 5dr | £16,970 | 57.6 mpg | 10.2 s |
| SE 1.2 TSI DSG 105 5dr Auto | £18,220 | 57.6 mpg | 10.2 s |
| SE 1.4 TSI 140 5dr | £18,020 | 53.3 mpg | 8.2 s |
On sale until April 2013
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| FR 2.0 TDI (184ps) 5dr | £22,375 | 65.7 mpg | 7.5 s |
Model History
- July 2012: SEAT introduced the new Leon
- September 2012
- June 2013
- September 2013: SEAT introduced the Leon Ecomotive
- October 2013: SEAT opened order books for Leon Ecomotive with a CO2 rating of just 87g/km
- March 2014: Leon Sports Styling Kit launched
- January 2016: SEAT announced facelift for 2017
- January 2016
July 2012
SEAT introduced the new Leon
Completely redesigned from the ground up, the third generation Leon is packed full of high-end technology, utilising a cutting edge MQB chassis with fully indpendent suspension, advanced infotainment systems and sophisticated driving aids. Each of the engines combines powerful dynamics with outstanding efficiency.
The availability of full-LED headlamps for the new, third generation Leon is a pioneering move by SEAT – a first in the family hatchback class. This technology combines striking design with exceptional illumination.
The new Leon is compelling for its excellent practicality. It combines a more compact exterior with a more spacious interior. The premium materials and the level of craftsmanship place the Leon squarely at the forefront of the competitive field.
Every power unit is among best-in-class for efficiency and emissions, with the highlight being the 1.6 TDI with start/stop. It has an average fuel consumption of just 74.3 mpg and a CO2 figure of just 99 g/km.
At 4,260mm long, the new Leon is around five centimetres shorter than its predecessor, yet the wheelbase is up by almost six centimetres. This clever packaging enables short overhangs and enhances the strong visual presence of the wheels, while giving practical benefits such as improved interior space, particularly for rear seat passengers, as well as in the luggage compartment.
The angular line of the headlamps is a typical feature of the new SEAT design language, while also being perfectly integrated into the Leon’s sculptural form. Full-LED lights are available for the first time in the compact class. The new headlamps give an unmistakable look to the front end of the Leon. Additionally, the new Leon now has a distinctive signature appearance thanks to the fitment of LED daytime running lights.
From the side, the new SEAT Leon looks like a precisely executed sculpture on wheels. The characteristic, unbroken ‘Línea Dinámica’ runs rearwards over the wheel arches. It is reminiscent of the tension of a well-trained muscle. The trapezoidal C-pillars are characteristic to the Leon, as are the short, upwards-pointing third windows.
The rear end of the new SEAT Leon has been intensively modelled; the large logo serves as an opener for the rear hatch. The slightly wedge-shaped rear light clusters highlight the car’s width and are also available in LED technology.
The 1.6 TDI generates 105 PS (104 bhp) and 250 Nm (184 lb.ft) of torque. In the Ecomotive version with start/stop system and brake energy recuperation, it The EC combined figure is 74.3 mpg, equating to 99 g/km CO2. The extensively re-engineered 2.0 TDI does 70.6 mpg EC combined in the Ecomotive version, yet develops 150 PS (148 bhp) and 320 Nm (236 lb.ft) of torque.
From early 2013 engine line up expanded to include 1.2 TSI in two versions with 86 PS (85 bhp) and 105 PS (104bhp); a 1.4 TSI with 122 PS (120 bhp); and a 1.8 TSI with 180 PS (178 bhp) and a combination of direct and manifold injection. Diesel line-up augmented by 1.6 TDI with 90 PS (89 bhp) and 2.0 TDI with 184 PS (181 bhp). It delivers a maximum torque swell of 380 Nm (280 lb.ft).
Depending on engine, transmission options are five- and six-speed manual gearboxes or six-speed wet clutch or seven-speed dry clutch DSG dual-clutch gearboxes.
September 2012
UK prices announced. The new hatchback will be priced from just £15,670 RRP OTR when it goes on sale 1 October 2012, for first deliveries March 2013.
June 2013
SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS announced, combining 184PS, 380Nm torque and an EC labtest figure of 67.3 mpg combined with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. The 2.0-litre TDI engine features direct injection and Ecomotive Start/Stop Technology as standard. Six-speed manual gearbox only, the Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS costs from just £22,075.
All Leon FRs includes LED tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, FR-specific front- and rear bumpers, dark tinted windows, twin chrome exhaust pipes, sports suspension (lowered by 15 mm from standard), dual-zone climate control, front sports seats, SEAT Easy Connect media system including full colour touch screen interface, Bluetooth audio streaming and eight speakers, and SEAT Drive Profile. By altering the throttle management, steering feel and gearbox settings (in DSG-equipped cars) between three modes, SEAT Drive Profile allows significant alteration of the feel of the driving experience.
On the dynamic front, the FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS is one of only two versions of the Leon from launch, along with the FR 1.8 TSI 180 PS, that comes with a multi-link rear suspension setup, as opposed to the rear torsion beam of less powerful cars.
McPherson-type suspension is standard at the front of all Leon models, with a semi-rigid axle (torsion beam) at the rear for cars with engines up to and including 150 PS. This solution saves weight and cost - which can be passed on to the buyer - without impacting ride comfort or overall refinement.
A multi-link suspension setup is more suitable to higher performance driving, with five links per side allowing greater lateral movement for improved contact with the road, particularly during high-speed cornering when the tyres are at the limit of grip; the rear torsion beam allows some twist and flex, but the multi-link setup does so even more.
Priced at £22,075 for the three-door SC, and £22,375 for the five-door version, first customer deliveries of the SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS are expected during September 2013.
September 2013
SEAT introduced the Leon Ecomotive
The new Leon 1.6 TDI Ecomotive returned 85.6mpg in the ECDC lab tests in all three body styles (five-door, SC, ST), making it the most efficient Leon ever. In the UK, its 87g/km CO2 rating puts it into VED band A, meaning £0 VED.
The new SEAT Leon Ecomotive is one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market, with an 85.6 mpg combined fuel consumption rating giving it a theoretical tank range of over 940 miles. Thanks to its brand new 1.6-litre TDI engine with 110 PS and 250 Nm, the Leon Ecomotive also offers compelling performance, delivering a 0-62 mph sprint of 10.4 seconds.
Like every Leon, the Ecomotive features Start/Stop and brake Energy Recovery, and in addition it has a specially adapted six-speed manual transmission and tyres with low rolling resistance. Added to this are optimised aerodynamics, comprising a lower body shell, featuring closed-off cooling apertures at the front, additional under-body panels, and a roof spoiler with side spoilers at the rear windscreen.
The unique combination of highly emotional design, precise dynamics and exceptionally low running costs also applies to the second newcomer to the SEAT family: the Leon TGI. Its newly developed 1.4-litre direct injection, turbocharged engine can run on either petrol or compressed natural gas (CNG).
October 2013
SEAT opened order books for Leon Ecomotive with a CO2 rating of just 87g/km
Launched officially at September's Frankfurt Motor Show alongside the new Leon ST estate, the Leon Ecomotive is available in all three body styles (SC, five-door and ST) and is priced from £19,360 RRP OTR for the 3-door Leon SC Ecomotive, but all three versions return the same 85.6 mpg combined fuel consumption in the EC lab tests. The 87g/km CO2 figure puts the car into VED Band A, so the tax disc costs nothing.
Power comes from a 1.6-litre TDI diesel engine, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox whose ratios are spaced for optimum efficiency; the transmission is a fundamental difference between the Leon Ecomotive and the standard Leon 1.6 TDI, which itself emits a very modest 99g/km, equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox.
Other changes over the standard Leon 1.6 TDI include a higher engine output, up from 105 PS to 110 PS, and the fitment of low rolling resistance tyres. To improve aerodynamic performance there's a body package comprising rear and side spoilers, and the suspension is lowered by 15 mm, while the radiator grille is unique to the Ecomotive. These changes help the Leon Ecomotive travel 11.3 miles further per gallon of fuel than the standard Leon 1.6 TDI, according to their respective combined consumption ratings.
As with every other model in the Leon range, the Leon Ecomotive comes with an Energy Recovery System and a Start/Stop System, the former to capture and store brake energy otherwise lost as heat, which can be used to power electrical systems, and the latter to shut down the engine when the car is at a standstill, preserving fuel.
The Leon Ecomotive comes as standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights with cornering function, cruise control, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, air conditioning, electric windows all around (aside from SC versions), Bluetooth hands-free phone system, SEAT Easy Connect multimedia system, and a front armrest/storage box; the Leon Ecomotive is based on SE specification.
And until at least the end of 2013, the Leon Ecomotive is eligible for SEAT's free Technology Pack offer, which endows the car with cutting edge full-LED headlights (including their distinctive strip-LED daytime running lights), satellite navigation and a DAB radio - so every medium-wave radio talk show rant can be enjoyed in crystal clear digital quality.
First deliveries of the Leon Ecomotive from January 2014, priced at £19,360 for the SC, £19,660 for the five-door and £20,485 for the ST.
March 2014
Leon Sports Styling Kit launched
The kit comprises a new front bumper including revised fog lamps, side sills, roof spoiler and a rear bumper that includes a contrasting black ‘diffuser’ and incorporates twin sports exhaust pipes.
In addition, the kit is complemented beautifully by a set of 19-inch Sports wheels, available now in either black or silver from the official SEAT Accessories catalogue. The Leon Sports Styling Kit is available fully fitted and painted from any SEAT dealership, or its constituent parts can be ordered separately, allowing Leon drivers to customise their car according to their taste and budget. Ordered alone, the prices for the kit’s constituent parts are as follows:
Front bumper: £1,500
Rear bumper: £975
Rear roof spoiler: £399
Side skirts: £645
Twin sports exhaust: £480
Alloy wheels: £999
All prices include VAT, painting and fitting at an approved SEAT dealership.
January 2016
SEAT announced facelift for 2017
The latest incarnation of the Barcelona-based brand’s best-selling model already has a multi-award-winning recipe , blending key ingredients of comfort, technology and quality, with emotional design and driving pleasure. The successful “Leon formula” Is now having a drop of extra technology and design added to the mix.
Without a doubt, one of the main reasons for the current Leon’s success has been its striking and high quality design, so, for 2017, some subtle changes have been added.
The front and rear have sharper, more assertive lines than the current model, with incisive lateral lines that are less distinct at the front and rear. The intention has been to emphasise this sharp image, achieving it with a more coherent look. It is noticeable especially in the new bumper design. Another goal was to increase the perceived size of the car, stretching the grille an extra 40mm in a richer chrome, like that more traditionally found on more expensive, larger cars.
The character has also been reinforced as much inside as outside in terms of quality. It is worth noting too, that the new Leon is also even quieter than before. Inside the car, the ambient lighting LEDs’ intensity can be regulated as the driver wishes from the newly designed eight-inch screen, which eliminates the need for many of the buttons and dials on the current model.
The new, improved exterior lights are particularly noteworthy thanks to new rear lights and headlights complete with Full-LED technology. LED technology has also been used in the indicators and fog lights.
Following the launch of the Ateca with such a vast range of driver assistance systems, it’s now the Leon’s turn to take onboard the latest technological developments. For example, Traffic Jam Assist, a function that offers great comfort in traffic with frequent and intermittent stops. Thanks to the combination of Lane Assist and ACC, in traffic jams the car manoeuvres, accelerates and brakes automatically within the limits of the system. Up to 37 mph, the system provides assistance with speed while keeping the car in the correct lane. Another added feature is the Pedestrian Protection System which recognises vehicles, as well as pedestrians, ensuring that safety is paramount both in the city and on the motorway.
Further new systems include Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Detection, and the most advanced parking assist technology with both bay and parallel parking, Emergency Assist and High Beam Assist. The camera and navigation systems have been improved too, to now recognise a higher number of traffic signs. The New SEAT Leon also includes a new centre console with an Electric Parking Brake.
The New SEAT Leon offers the very highest level of connectivity. Its myriad systems include the latest generation of Easy Connect infotainment systems, SEAT Full Link and the exclusive SEAT ConnectApp that comes with voice recognition and gesture control technology, allowing functions to be activated with just a finger swipe on the touchscreen.
The Media System Plus, with its eight-inch screen, is the highlight of the former. The New SEAT Leon has, for the very first time, a Connectivity Box in the central console that enables wireless smartphone charging. Not forgetting SEAT Full Link, which opens up the world of connectivity for users of virtually all smartphones. Alongside MirrorLink, Full Link also incorporates the functions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For areas with low satellite reception, the system also comes equipped with a GSM signal booster.
The new SEAT Leon is offered with five trim levels at UK launch: S, SE Dynamic, SE Technology, FR and the new XCELLENCE. The new highlight is the latter with its distinctive upmarket feel, including luxurious upholstery (Alcantara and leather as an optional), extensive trim elements and multi-colour ambient interior lighting. On the outside, it gleams with a chrome design front grille, new front and rear bumpers, and also comes with rear LED indicators. On the inside, it benefits from an aluminium XCELLENCE kickplate, LED interior illumination pack and KESSY (Keyless Enter and Go).
The New SEAT Leon’s range of Euro 6 compliant engines satisfies a wide range of needs. The TDI engine range begins with a 1.6 90 PS and goes up to the 2.0 184 PS, plus, it includes a new 1.6 115 PS powertrain. In terms of petrol power, the New Leon’s options range from 110 to 180 PS, with a new 1.0 litre TSI three-cylinder 115 PS for the UK being the latest addition.
When it comes to gearboxes, the range includes five- or six-speed manual units, all well as double-clutch DSG with six- or seven-speeds.
January 2016
CO2 changes to SEAT Leon 5-door hatchback exposed by 'Autocar'
S/SE 1.6 TDI 99g/km and 74.3mpg (revised to 102g/km and 70.6mpg, VED +£20, BIK +1%)
SE 1.6 TDI Auto 99g/km and 74.3mpg (revised to 101g/km and 72.4mpg, VED +£20, BIK +1%)
SE 1.6 TDI Ecomotive 89g/km and 83.1mpg (revised to 94g/km and 78.5mpg, VED +£0, BIK +0%)
SE 2.0 TDI 106g/km and 68.9mpg (revised to 110g/km and 65.7mpg, VED +£0, BIK +1%)
FR 1.4 EcoTSI 110g/km and 60.1mpg (revised to 114g/km and 57.6mpg, VED +£10, BIK +1%)
FR 1.4 EcoTSI Auto 109g/km and 60.1mpg (revised to 115g/km and 57.6mpg, VED +£10, BIK +2%)
FR 1.8 EcoTSI Auto 129g/km and 49.6mpg (revised to 134g/km and 48.7mpg, VED +£20, BIK +1%)
FR 2.0 TDI 108g/km and 67.3mpg (revised to 112g/km and 64.2mpg, VED +£10, BIK +1%)
FR 2.0 TDI 113g/km and 65.7mpg (revised to 118g/km and 62.8mpg, VED +£0, BIK +1%)
What to watch out for
Warranty on DSG 7-speed dry clutch DQ200 gearbox extended to 5 years or 150,000 kilometres in Russia and China.
25-10-2014:Repeated failures of new SEAT Leon 1.2 TSI purchased in August 2014. Six weeks into ownership the EPC (Engine management) light kept coming on at start up together with an additional warning in the drivers display advising of a fault in the stop / start system. The car is now in the garage for a third time having had various updates to the software system and a new throttle block fitted and has been off the road for what will now be sixteen days.The problem had not been resolved to date.
30-07-2015:Report of brakes activating fully while gently braking from 40 to 30mph. Suspect active cruise control and City Braking system.
04-08-2015:Report of lever type hand brake of SEAT Leon 1.4 TSI Technology giving way on a driveway. Not left in gear. Advice is always to leave in gear. SEAT asked £702 to replace a scratched and chipped headlamp unit.
25-10-2015:Report of 8,000 mile September 2014 SEAT Leon 1.2 TSI Technology (LED lights, DAB radio & SatNav). First the Radio/SatNav unit locked-up in September 2015, but dealer successfully rebooted it vie the OBDII port. (More on Leon satnav problems here.)Then in October 2015 the offside LED headlamp light unit totally failed: no lights or indicators. New headlamp unit on order under warranty but 2 weeks until delivery. Car illegal, so off the road until then. No courtesy car provided.
16-03-2016:Report that map display of satnav of SEAT Leon freezes and goes to Wolfsburg. Apparently a common problem with VWG cars. SEAT dealer professed ignorance of the fault, then when presented with photographic evidence of it had no answer.
30-06-2016:Report of front Bridgestone S001 18-inch tyres of Leon 1.4 TSI 150 only lasting 7,500 miles. Probably needs re-aligning.
02-02-2017:Report of DSG transmission of 2012/62 SEAT Leon 1.6 TDI DSG losing drive at 43,000 miles. Firstly a light came on indcating a fault in the emissions control system, which was immediately followed by the car failing to engage gear and a spanner symbol appearing where the gear indicator is usually displayed. After being with a local garage for almost a month, owner was informed the problem was caused by the gearbox failing to link with the computer/electronic gear selector and was quoted £1,500 to fix. However, owner has now heard from the garage that when they tried to fix the gearbox it began to fall apart and Seat garages had been contacted to fix who were quoting £3,500. This 7-speed dry clutch DSG has always been a problem. It was recalled around 2012 to replace the synthetic oil in it with mineral oil because the synthetic oil was becoming conductive at high temperatures causing the Mechatronics to lose drive. It's possible that being a 2012/62 (current generation) the transmission was filled with mineral oil right from the start. However, filling with mineral oil turned what was designed to be a maintenance-free, sealed for life transmission into one that requires fresh oil every 40,000 miles. Had the car been maintained by SEAT dealers the owner should have been warned of this. Obviously worth contacting SEAT, but they may take the view that because the car has been dismantled by an independent dealer they are not liable.
23-04-2017:Report of clutch and dual mass flywheel failure in March 2016 SEAT Leon FR at 9,000 miles. " On April 2nd, 2017 there was a catastrophic clutch failure. The car was stuck in second gear and there was a strong burning smell. It had done 9,000 miles. The SEAT garage in Crewe has fitted a new clutch and fly wheel, charging £1363. They claim it is due to driver error."
23-05-2017:Severe oil consumption reported from 2014 SEAT Leon 1.2 TSI at 55k miles. Then a crack was found in the cylinder head. Being repaired under warranty.
23-11-2017:On 4 month old 2017 SEAT Leon 1.4 TSI gearbox had to be replaced due to difficulty engaging 1st and 4th; also has a shaft seal failure leading to oil contamination of the clutch. Clutch and transmission replaced FoC, after which clutch action became heavy and driver had difficulty selecting reverse.
22-01-2018:Report of DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DGS of 2013 SEAT Leon FR failing at 30k miles due to an electrical fault (probably Mechatronics). Owner quoted £1,700 to repair.
10-04-2018:Report that 23,000 miles 2013/63 SEAT Leon 1.4 TSI ST has a fault code P334B/013131. This is the later design of actuator which does not have the vaccuum control pipes but is driven by the ECU. It appears that the shaft of the actuator has some lateral movement when hot which may be causing it to stick so various warning lights and problems ensue, to the point of loosing the turbo action. Car had been serviced at 8k by a SEAT dealer, at 13k by an independent dealer and at 22k by a local garage. The thing is, it looks as if the actuator has to be changed with the turbo. The way the system is designed, there is no ability to calibrate the actuator to the turbo as far as we can tell at the moment. Owner feels "this is a ridiculous piece of design and for it to have failed so soon and so expensively should not have happened." The question is, this must affect all other VAG cars with the same turbo actuator.
10-06-2018:Report of clutch pack of DQ200 7-speed DSG of July 2015 SEAT Leon 1.2 TSI failing twice, first in June 2016, then again in June 2018, both times replaced under warranty.
26-06-2018:Report of faulty Mechatronics in DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG of 2013 SEAT Leon.
17-07-2018:Report of timing belt failure of 1.4TSI engine of 2014/64 reg SEAT Leon at 40,000 miles. The camshaft pulley failed. No Factory goodwill will be offered. The dealer wants another £432 to take cylinder head off to quantify specific damage done inside engine. The dealer will then make further goodwill appeal to SEAT Customer Care for contribution to the repair. The success of this appeal will apparently be influenced by how much dealer involvement the car has had in the past. Since the car has had only 2 owners (in both instances purchased from Snows SEAT) and has been serviced by either Snows or a licenced SEAT repair shop this should count favourably as does its low mileage and normal usage. Mechanical solution either: new engine £4,400. Or head repair £2,900 (less £432).
18-07-2018:Report of characteristic cold engine kangarooing and hesitation problems with December 2018 SEAT Leon 1.5TSI 130. Owner reposts that. "Customer service from my dealer at SEAT and their UK customer service team has been shambolic on all accounts. First the diagnostics at the dealer showed no fault and my driving style was blamed, as well as using supermarket fuel which I have never used. As the problem of kangarooing and juddering wasn’t going away (3k miles on the clock) I contacted VAG Customer Services who firstly admitted there was a fault, following by there wasn’t, followed by there could be a fault but the master technicians will need to diagnose it. I have been going around in circles with them since March 2019. Nobody has taken any form of accountability. Driving the car is the worse experience I have ever had behind the wheel. Later this week I will give the car to my dealer to test drive for a week, and I will be driving a courtesy car."
04-10-2018:Report of all electrics of 2014 SEAT Leon 1.4TSI shutting down completely. It was found that the battery had failed. A new battery solved the problem. (The same thing can happen if the earth lead from the battery to the body becomes detached.)
09-10-2018:Report of Mechatronics of 2014 SEAT Leon failing (presumed DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG). Owner quoted £1,400 to repair.
02-11-2018:Report of failure of DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG transmission in 2013 SEAT Leon 1.8TSI at 35k miles. Car serviced annually by a "specialist". Dealer asking almost £5k to replace.
08-12-2018:Report of catastrophic oil loss from engine of 2014 SEAT Leon 1.2TSI (VIN: VSSZZZ5FZER096473) in France. A few minutes before the oil loss, owner heard a faint rattling. French SEAT dealer refused to repair it until they had received confirmation from SEAT that SEAT would pay for the repair. Apparently, this has now been given but the garage now claims that it are waiting for the equipment needed to effect the repair. Owner told that defect itself concerns a pulley coming adrift inside the cylinder head. See 17-7-2018. Likely to be why timing belt replacement on EA211s is being scheduled at 4 years old.
03-04-2019:Report of turbo actuator of 2015 SEAT Leon 1.4TSI 150 FR failing three times in 28,000 miles.
16-05-2019:Report of SEAT Leon 1.2TSI engine using 1 litre of oil every 1,000 miles.
30-05-2019:Report that 2014 SEAT Leon 1.6 TDi 105 Ecomotive needed new turbo and DPF at a cost of £3,820, but garage then discovered that it needed a replacement engine as well. Replacement engine fitted FoC.
15-07-2019:Ongoing issues with the 1.5 TSI engine with no resolution from SEAT. (These were resolved by a Software update from September 2019.)
05-09-2019:Problem reported with DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG in 2014 SEAT Leon FR 1.8TSI 180. Error notice on and off: "ERROR: WORKSHOP! ONLY LEAVE VEHICLE IN POSITION P." Owner also notices that sometimes the car automatically switches to the Sports Mode gears while driving, or, more rarely, starts with the Sports Mode directly. With a scanner, he picked up error code: 617752- Selector lever Park position Lock switch. He thinks there is a Technical Service Bulletin for the 617752 error (recommendation to replace gear selector/ shifter assembly?). But online forums have different suggestions.
13-09-2019:Report of ACC front assist not available warning light on on 2017 SEAT Leon 1.4 EcoTSi 150 DSG Auto Start/Stop FR Technology. (Yellow triangle). Car serviced yesterday and apparently the sensor needs recalibrating at a cost of £400, not covered in the warranty. With this particular sensor off the cruise control does not work either.
24-10-2019:Report of 2016 SEAT Leon needing new rear damper because it was "misting" (leaking fluid) at 15,000 miles. FoC under warranty, but dealer recommended replacing the other as well at a cost of £200.
29-10-2019:Problem reported with DSG transmission of 2017 SEAT Leon FR purchased in Jerusalem.
04-12-2019:Report of failure of MOLL battery in SEAT Leon at 2 years old and 50,000 miles. AA fitted new battery at a cost of £230 and told owner he had replaced a lot of MOLL batteries on SEATs. SEAT declined to pay for the battery. (See 4-10-2018)
