The 2009 Revised SEAT Leon Revealed
Published: 9th February 2009
The New SEAT Leon
With the Geneva Motor Show just around the corner, SEAT has unveiled the first official pictures of the revised SEAT Leon.
The SEAT Leon's changes are expected to further broaden its appeal, adding a fresh visual charm as well as extensive engineering and equipment improvements.
Following SEAT's trademark Arrow Design, as seen on the new Ibiza, the exterior now sports smoother, more elegant lines, a new grille with a smaller SEAT logo and stylised chrome surround as well as larger headlights, new door mirrors and new wheel designs.
Whilst the rear of the car has been redesigned with a larger glass area to improve visibility, and the rear light clusters have also received a new look.
The interior has also been redesigned, with modifications to the instrument panel and centre console alongside modernised and more ergonomically efficient passenger compartment.
The revisions go further than aesthetics however, with possibly the most important inclusion being XDS electronic traction control - available on some models. This technology mimics a conventional limited slip differential but without the costly and heavy mechanicals associated with existing models. Working alongside ESP to improve the car's performance in situations where traction is lost by applying the brake to the wheel that is losing grip.
The ten engine options , five petrol and five diesel, have all received enhancements to improve performance as well as reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
The 211 PS 2.0 litre TSI in the highlight of the petrol range alongside the arrival of common rail technology to the 170 PS 2.0 litre TDI. All models are now equipped with SEAT's DSG automatic sequential manual gearbox complete with motorsport-style shift paddles on the steering wheel.
Safety is, of course, a major focus in the 2009 SEAT Leon, with a multitude of active safety measures in place. Among the electronics to aid safety are ABS + TCS and ESP with EBA emergency braking.
The SEAT Leon's equipment list has also been upgraded. The new additions include Hill Hold Control, bi-xenon headlights with AFS and daytime driving lights, a new climate control system, new audio equipment, cornering fog lights, front and rear parking sensors and an optical parking system displayed on the new navigation system.
All SEAT Leon models offer new upholstery including leather options, whilst the Leon FR versions are set to offer a combination of black fabric (for the seat sides) with eye-catching red or silver Alcantara down the middle.
UK pricing and full specification details for SEAT's revised Leon line-ups will be released closer to the models' showroom debut here this summer.
Seat Leon
Our Seat Leon Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Leon range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £13,500 - £20,450
Body Style:
Fuel:
/ 
Models in the range: 16
We have road tested the Seat Leon, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Seat Leon Review - Jun 2006
Seat Leon Review - Mar 2005
Seat Leon Review - Jun 2007
Seat Leon Review - Feb 2008
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 14th Oct 2009
