SEAT Unwraps Leon At Last

Now it's for real! Only a week after Auto Express exclusively drove the concept version of SEAT's new Leon, the Spanish firm has released these pictures of the production car set to debut at next month's Barcelona Motor Show.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Chris Thorp

20th April 2005

And as you can see, the roadgoing model is virtually identical to the Prototipo which wowed crowds at March's Geneva event. Thankfully, its designers have maintained the hatchback's neat proportions and flowing curves, sacrificing few of the show car's sharp edges and neat creases. The only things that are missing are the Prototipo's centrally mounted exhaust and the deep bumpers with swanky honeycomb mesh.

But to emphasise its sporty nature, the production Leon has Alfa Romeo-style rear handles incorporated in the C-pillar. These give the practical five-door a racy three-door appearance. Sharing its underpinnings with VW's Golf, the Leon is likely to offer entertaining handling. The suspension will be set up for keen drivers, as befits SEAT's sporty brand image.

Four engines will be available from launch: a 1.6-litre petrol, 1.9 and 2.0 TDI units and a 150bhp 2.0 FSI. Traction control, ABS and the latest generation of ESP are among the active safety systems. Inside the cabin six airbags will come as standard, with rear side bags an option. The Leon will arrive here before the end of the year, starting from ΂£11,000.

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