Seat Leon review

The Leon undercuts the equivalent Golf by around ten per cent, with prices starting from £22,225 for the 1.0-litre 108bhp turbocharged petrol. However, if you want a hybrid, be it a mild one where the engine runs all the time, or a plug-in with a decent dose of electric-only range, you’ll need to shell out considerably more: you’re looking at £29,195 for the mild-hybrid, rising to £34,305 for the plug-in.

Monthly payments start at around £300, £360 and £400 respectively, on a four-year agreement with a six-month initial payment.

The plug-in is arguably most attractive to fleet and business users thanks to a six per cent Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate. Charging takes around 3h 45mins to fully replenish the battery using a wallbox (there’s no fast charging); otherwise it’s six hours on a three pin plug, with up to 40 miles of electric-only range.

Talk me through the trim options.

There are six trims to choose from SE, SE Dynamic, FR, FR Sport, Xcellence or Xcellence Lux. A quick whistle-stop tour, then…

As standard you get keyless start, LED lights, eight-inch infotainment system, and wireless smartphone pairing. SE Dynamic adds a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10-inch infotainment display, rear windows, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Middling FR trim adds a sportier look, including a 15mm lower ride height and faux exhaust pipes, while FR Sport adds heated front seats and steering wheel, wraparound ambient lights and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Xcellence trim brings a slightly different aesthetic, with unique bumpers, diamond grille, chrome-framed side windows and Dynamic 17-inch alloy wheels, with Xcellence Lux adding leather upholstery and 18-inch alloy wheels. 

What would be your choice?

Seat expects the best-seller to be the 1.5-litre 130bhp petrol engine and we’d be inclined to agree: it’s quick enough for a family hatchback, offers impressive fuel efficiency and above all, substantial savings over the hybrid models.

Any extra cash left over we’d be tempted to spend on a more luxurious trim – the middling FR trim is our pick of the bunch with its slightly sportier image and lower ride height. In that spec, you’re looking at £25,855, or around £340 on lease.