9

Seat has revealed the new third-generation Leon, which will reach dealership showrooms in March.

The new model features more efficient hybrid engines and enhanced connectivity.

A longer wheelbase offers more interior and luggage space.

The Leon shares a platform with the new VW Golf and Skoda Octavia, enabling advanced driver assistance systems, better refinement and a more engaging drive.

Seat says the Leon will be firmer and more driver-focused than the Golf and Octavia.

Conventional petrol and diesel engines will be available alongside two 48v mild hybrids and a plug-in hybrid.

The range starts with a 10-litre 110PS three-cylinder TSI unit, available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG. There is also a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 130PS or 150PS.

Both the 110PS and 150PS units with DSG are available as eTSI, with a 48v mild hybrid system. By enabling extended engine-off coasting and assisting the engine under load, these units contribute to better fuel consumption.

A 2.0-litre TDI diesel is avaiable with 115PS or 150PS. 

The plug-in hybrid, known as the eHybrid, uses the same 204PS powertrain as the Golf GTE. It is expected to give a 38-mile zero-emission range.

There will also be two high performance Cupra versions, including one with a plug-in hybrid engine.

Six trim levels – SE, SE Dynamic, FR, FR Sport, Xcellence, Xcellence Lux – are available in keeping with Seat’s Easy Move strategy. Buyers only need to choose trim, engine and colour.

In the car, Full Link offers Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connections. A Digital Cockpit brings together a high-resolution 10.25-inch configurable driver instrument cluster and 10-inch infotainment system.

The cabin has been decluttered, reducing the number of physical buttons to a minimum. Most features are now controlled via the main infotainment screen, which includes gesture recognition.

The SE features keyless start, two USB points in the front, LED headlights with automatic high beam, an eight-inch infotainment system and Seat Connect technology.

SE Dynamic upgrades the infotainment to the SEAT Digital Cockpit with Navi, complete with 10-inch infotainment screen and 10.25-inch digital driver binnacle, Park Assist (front and rear sensors), tinted rear side windows, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels.

The FR trim adds sportier front and rear bumpers, dual exhaust pipes and a lowered suspension set-up. It also has a wireless chargin tray and LED rear lights.

FR Sport includes heated front seats, heated steering wheel and heated windscreen washers. A black interior roof lining, microsuede cloth upholstery, wraparound ambient lighting technology and 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look.

Xcellence features a different bumper design with a hot-stamped Diamond grille, chrome-framed side windows and 17-inch alloy wheels. Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control also features.

Xcellence Lux adds leather upholstery and 18-inch wheels.

Customers can option an electric panoramic sunroof and either a fixed or electric towing hook on all trims.

Pricing and technical specifications are expected closer to the cars launch in March. It is likely that the new Leon will cost from £20,000.