Leon To Reign In Spain

One of the most talked-about new family cars of the year is to make its world debut in front of its adoring home fans next month.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Matt Joy

12th April 2005

VW-owned SEAT has announced that the production version of its Leon concept will be the star of the Barcelona Motor Show on 5 May. The Leon prototype impressed a worldwide audience at March's Geneva expo, and sources suggested the real thing would appear much later in the year. Instead, the showroom-ready Leon will debut less than two months after the concept, as SEAT cashes in on the positive reception at Geneva.

The concept caused a stir thanks to its adventurous styling and smart interior, and the real thing is hoped to make a similar impact. Key to that success will be retaining as much of the original design as possible. SEAT bosses have revealed just what will stay during the switch to production. The five-door shape will be very similar, with the large headlights and family grille carried across, along with the distinctive feature line on each side of the car. Top-spec Cupras are likely to wear 18-inch wheels rather than the prototype's huge 19-inchers.

Inside, a normal five-seat layout will replace the 2+2 configuration, although this may be available. The stylish dash layout is to be toned down, but the
dial graphics and chunky steering wheel will be carried over. Mechanically, the production car will match the concept, with VW Group petrol and diesel engines, plus optional DSG gearbox.

After its debut, the Leon will reach Europe in autumn, with British sales expected before the end of the year. Prices should start at around ΂£11,000.

For an alternative review of the latest Seat Leon visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk