Road tests

Toyota Auris vs SEAT Leon - pictures

by: Auto Express team

3 Sep 2015

The Toyota Auris has been updated with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and so we're seeing how it stacks up to a firm favourite - the SEAT Leon, also with a 1.2-litre turbo petrol.
The Auris tested here is in Design trim and comes in at £19,095.
The Auris' facelift has given it a new look on the front, but it's still slightly slab-sided.
The updated touchscreen infotainment system looks slick.
The lack of physical buttons can make it difficult to select functions on the move.
There's less room in the rear of the Auris than the Leon.
The Auris' panoramic sunroof gives the cabin an airy feel.
The Toyota Auris' boot is smaller than the SEAT Leon's, but it does come with a space-saver spare wheel as standard.
The Auris is dull to drive with vague steering.
The 1.2T VVT-i engine is great, revving smoothly and returning decent economy.
There's a difference of £1,395 between the cars, with the Auris being pricier, while LED lights and sat-nav are extra, widening the gap even further.
The Leon tested here has been given a free upgrade to SE Tech trim, giving it plenty of kit.
The model tested here comes in at £17,700, but with the technology pack it bumps the price to £18,785.
The Leon's interior is lacking in flair but big on quality.
The clever touch screen brings its buttons up as your hand approaches the screen, freeing up space on the display when it's not being interacted with.
The Leon has more rear space than its rival but the lack of a glass roof and the dark cabin trim make it feel claustrophobic.
The Leon's boot is large but the back seats leave a step in the floor when folded.
The 1.2-litre TSI engine tested here is slightly slower than the Auris, but in real life you'd be hard-pressed to tell.
The SEAT Leon only costs £30 a year to tax, as opposed to the Auris' £110.

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