Seat 2014 Leon

Seat 2014 Leon

About SEAT Leon

Now in its third generation, the Leon is a smart family hatchback with plenty of streetwise style, spacious practicality and an energetic and engaging drive which easily pits it against some of the more popular models in its competitive class. First released in 1999, the Seat Leon has seen constant success, winning numerous awards, selling in large numbers and regularly scoring well in customer satisfaction polls. Although once a manufacturer of the cheap and the cheerful, the Leon is proof that Seat is a quickly becoming a mature and serious contender.

Why buy a used Leon?

Based on a VW platform (shared with the Audi A3 and VW Golf), the Leon is calm and assured on the road. Steering is well-weighted and accurate, while body roll is minimal, both of which give it sharp handling and nimble ability at all speeds. FR models have stiffer and even more accurate handling, but on all models ride is a touch on the hard side - although not to its overall detriment.

In the latest generation there are a total of six engines to choose from - three petrol and three diesels. Although the diesel options are easy and efficient, it is the 1.4 litre petrol which stands out for its smooth, effortless power and willing revs. Coupled with a clean and precise five speed manual, the Leon runs with an unflappability that few would associate with the Spanish manufacturer. The top of the range 2.0 litre TDI FR with 181bhp is powerfully able and will appeal to the real driving enthusiasts with its impressive 7.5 second 0-62mph sprint.

Impressive performance comes at no added price in terms of run costs, and in the latest generation the Leon is surprisingly efficient. 90Kg lighter than its predecessor and 10 per cent more aerodynamic, the 1.6 TDI Ecomotive offers just 74.3 mpg returns and CO2 emissions of 99g/km. Even the top spec TDI FR offers an impressive 65mpg and 112g/km.

From the outside the Leon is arguably more stylish and interesting than the VW and Audi with which it shares its platform. Statement wing mirrors and flat-edged wheel arches give it a sharp, muscular look which mirrors its fun performance. Inside it is less eye catching, but with plenty of space for both passenger and luggage (the boot offers a spacious 380 litres of space), it is incredibly practical.

A stylish and exciting family hatchback, the Seat Leon is fast becoming one of the leading options in its class. Something which, considering its competitors, is no mean feat.

Leon updates

The Seat Leon was first released in 1999 and has gone on to become one of the Spanish manufacturer's most successful models.

Here is a brief look at the Seat Leon's history, starting in 1999.

• The Seat Leon was first released in 1999, was based on the VW Groups' A4 platform, and was marketed as a sportier and more affordable alternative to the Golf.
• The second generation Leon was launched in 2005, and featured updated styling and new engine options.
• The Leon FR, a sport enhanced model featuring twin-exhaust pipes, sports seats and a more powerful engine was released in June 2006.
• Between 2006 and 2007 the Leon won a number of awards across Europe including Car of the Year in Denmark, Auto 1 of the Year in Spain by Auto Bild magazine, and Diesel Car of the Year in Scotland.
• A third generation Leon, based on the VW Group's MQB platform was released in 2012.
• In 2013 the Leon was named the Auto Express Car of the Year, as well as the Best Small Family Car Less Than £16,000 by What Car? Magazine.

Which used Leon should I buy?

With three generations and a number of special editions (including the now discontinued Cupra), there is plenty of choice within the Leon range. Here are the latest generation's trim levels and their key features.

SEAT Leon S

Air con, 15" steel wheels, heated mirrors, colour media system with CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, front sport seats, steering wheel mounted controls, ESB, EBA, driver, front, front side, curtain and driver's knee airbags.

SEAT Leon SE

Air con, 16" alloy wheels, heated mirrors, colour media system with CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, front sport seats, steering wheel mounted controls, ESB, EBA, cruise control, XDS, hill hold control, front fog lights, driver, front, front side, curtain and driver's knee airbags.

SEAT Leon FR

Dual zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, dark tinted rear windows, SEAT Drive Profile, 17" alloy wheels, heated mirrors, colour media system with CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, front sport seats, steering wheel mounted controls, ESB, EBA, cruise control, LED rear lights, XDS, hill hold control, front fog lights, driver, front, front side, curtain and driver's knee airbags.

What should I look for when buying a used Leon?

• Some Leons have suffered from faulty boots which get stuck and fail to open. Make sure that this is not the case, otherwise it may need cleaning or repair work.
• Cam belts are recommended to be changed within either 40,000 or 60,000 miles, so check the paperwork to see that this has been done. Otherwise there is a high risk that it could fail.
• From cold, leave the engine running and listen for any misfires of spluttering. If idling isn't consistent it could indicate a problem with the coolant temperature sensor. If the engine management light remains illuminated on the dashboard it could be a sign of a faulty ignition coil. Both should be repaired, or could result in a costly fix.
• When out on a test drive, any sudden loss of power or cutting out could be a sign of a problem with the air flow metre.
• Check that none of the floor mats are damp, which could be a sign of leaking door seals. After heavy rain there is likely to be a build up of water around the kick plates - a design fault with no official solution.
• When covering uneven roads, check that there are no bumping or knocking noises coming from the rear suspension. If there are it could mean that the rear wishbone bushes need replacing.

Seat 2014 Leon

Source: https://www.theaa.com/used-cars/used-seat-leon

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