SEAT Leon 2017 Review | Driver's Seat

The third-generation Leon, in all of its current forms; SC three-door, five-door hatchback and ST five-door estate, has received a subtle mid-life refresh with styling tweaks, new technology and a new range-topping trim level.

To read our review of the 2.0TDI 184PR FR Technology click here: https://goo.gl/uhCVnC

From the outside, the changes for the 2017 model are minimal but include redesigned front and rear bumpers, a more prominent grille, redesigned headlights (shape remains the same) and new taillight styling (again shape unchanged).

Inside, changes are limited to a minor tweak around the ventilation controls which feature a new trim finish.

There’s also a new infotainment system, which grows from 6.5in to 8.0in with a more modern appearance and reduction of buttons (from eight to two) with just one rotary dial (instead of two).

The new Leon is available in five trim levels; S, SE Dynamic Technology, SE Technology, FR Technology and Excellence.

There are six petrol and three diesel engines to pick from in combination with either a five or six-speed manual gearbox while an optional seven-speed DSG can be plumped for.

On all but the S trim, the manual handbrake has been ditched for an electric one, meaning the centre console around the gear lever is extended to incorporate the new switchgear.

There’s also a new start-stop button located by the gear lever (not on S model), replacing the traditional turning key starting mechanism.

Petrol engine options consist of a new 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder developing 113bhp while the 1.2-litre TSI 110, 1.4-litre TSI 125 and 1.4-litre EcoTSI 150 all carryover from the current model. The current 1.8-litre TSI will be reintroduced at a later date. Then there's the fire-snorting 2.0-litre 300PS in the Cupra.

On the diesel front, there’s a1.6-litre which produces 113bhp, a 2.0-litre TDI 150 and a 2.0-litre TDI 184 all continue into the refreshed car.

New to the range is Xcellence trim, which tops the range to provide a more upmarket and luxurious feel. It includes unique upholstery, new trim, keyless entry, ambient lighting and a specially embossed kickplate. Setting it apart on the outside is additional chrome trim to the grille, front and rear bumpers plus LED indicators.

Available across the range is a selection of new safety technology including; traffic jam assist, lane assist – both of which provide an element of autonomous driving at speeds up to 37mph. Also new is wireless smartphone charging located in the centre console, pedestrian protection, traffic sign recognition, blind spot detections and parking assist.

We're testing the model that is expected to be the most popular amongst UK buyers, the 1.4-litre EcoTSi in FR Technology trim.

Review: 2.0TDI 184PR FR Technology click here: https://goo.gl/uhCVnC