SEAT Leon SC Review

SEAT has done a nice job with the new Leon. Basically, they managed to touch most of the points on their list and the end result is a very pleasant presence in the compact segment.

The Leon definitely looks the part, even without the fancy color on our test car, Alor Blue Metallic. We’d been waiting for a design to rival the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and now we got one. However, we’re not all that convinced this is the best part of the car.

The Leon has always been about looks more than anything else. Well, the gap between the car’s physique and its interior has now been reduced. The Leon manages to offer a pleasing overall package, so that you can enjoy its design charms.

Even though the cabin is ages ahead what we had in the past, this still remains the worst side of the car. The interior quality falls a bit short compared to that of the Volkswagen Golf.

This is something the VW Group has done to differentiate the two. The same can be said about the equipment. The Leon is missing a few of the toys available on the Golf.

However, aside from these areas, the SEAT is a more pleasant presence than the Volkswagen, even though both share the asset of being able to cater to longer trips if necessary. By the way, the Leon is also less expensive than the Golf. In the value for money exam, the Leon gets a smooth nine. The range-topping FR trim we drove, which used the mid-range 140 HP 1.4 TSI petrol unit, starts at EUR21,260, including 19 percent VAT.

Despite being more engaging to drive than its German cousin, the Leon still lacks serious driver involvement. Sure, the Leon SC is not a disappointment like the Opel Astra GTC, which it also tops in every imaginable category, but we would’ve liked it a bit spicier.

When it comes to choosing the Leon Sport Coupe, this does make you pay for the more appealing design. Both the rear access and space are considerably affected compared to the five-door Leon.

In the end, it’s all a matter of choice between the SEAT Leon’s two body styles. Then again, the same is true for the comparison with the VW Golf.