Seat unveils the new Leon

Seat is continuing its relentless product offensive with the unveiling of the new Leon, ahead of its launch in early 2017. Without a doubt, one of the main reasons for the current Leon's success has been its striking and high quality design, so, for 2017, some subtle changes have been added. 

The new, improved exterior lights are particularly noteworthy thanks to new rear lights and head lights complete with full LED technology. LED technology has also been used in the indicators and fog lights.

Following the launch of the Ateca with such a vast range of driver assistance systems, it's now the Leon's turn to take on-board the latest technological developments. For example, Traffic Jam Assist, a function that offers great comfort in traffic with frequent and intermittent stops.

Thanks to the combination of Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, in traffic jams the car manoeuvres, accelerates, and brakes automatically within the limits of the system. Up to 60km/h, the system provides assistance with speed while keeping the car in the correct lane. Another added feature is the Pedestrian Protection System, which recognises vehicles, as well as pedestrians, ensuring that safety is paramount both in the city and on the motorway.

The new Seat Leon will be offered with five trim levels at U.K. launch: S, SE Dynamic, SE Technology, FR, and the new XCELLENCE. The new highlight is the latter with its distinctive upmarket feel, including luxurious upholstery (Alcantara and leather as options), extensive trim elements, and multi-colour ambient interior lighting.

The new Seat Leon's range of Euro 6-compliant engines satisfies a wide range of needs. The TDI engine range begins with a 1.6-litre 113bhp and goes up to the 2.0-litre 181bhp. In terms of petrol power, the new Leon's options range from 108bhp to 178bhp, with a new 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder 113bhp for the U.K. being the latest addition.

When it comes to gearboxes, the range includes five or six-speed manual units, all well as double-clutch DSG with six or seven-speeds. The new Seat Leon will be available in the three existing body types: five-door, SC, and ST. A new Leon Cupra will be available in the near future, complete with its own surprises. But that's a story for another day.