New Leon brings Spanish brand to the forefront of hatchback market

By Gerry Murphy

Born in Barcelona, the new SEAT Leon no longer lurks in the background of the ultra-competitive family hatchback car market. For a long time the instinct when considering a car like this, the majority of buyers tend to look towards the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla or the Volkswagen Golf.

While the Leon has always had its own particular admirers, it hasn’t really been a market contender against the bigger brands. With the arrival of this week’s test car, the Leon TSi FR, the order could now arguably be about to change

Based on the underpinnings and mechanics of the Golf, the SEAT designers have shown a real eye for modern aesthetics with sharp, defined lines, a lovely balance of metal, glass and furnishings to give this fourth version of the Leon a stand-out look.

Like all new SEAT models, a lot of thought has been given to the both front and the rear where you get a coast-to-coast lighting strip and dynamic rear indicators sitting on machined 18” alloy wheels.

Inside, the designers have been equally influenced by modern traits with sporty seating, ambient lighting, a big 10” screen and leather gearshift and steering wheel. Some may find the technology a little cumbersome but, after a while, it gets easier to navigate once you get to grips with it.

You get all the modern connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay) and infotainment features which are operated through the colourful centre-mounted screen and controls on the steering.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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