As far as the diesel version is concerned, the Leon FR is driven by the same 170 hp 2.0 TDI powerpack first showcased by its genetic sibling, the SEAT Altea FR. Partnered by a six-speed manual gearbox, this engine generates its maximum power of 125 kW (170 hp) at 4,200 rpm. The result: a top speed of 214 km/h and 8.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h from standstill.

Highlights of the SEAT Leon FR drive train include the DSG automated gearshift that is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI version from the end of the year. Praised by the motoring press and customers alike, this is the first time that this transmission has been made available in a petrol-powered SEAT. The DSG package includes shift paddles on the steering wheel, marking another first for a road-going model from the Spanish manufacturer.

As with the Cupra, the model's exterior makes it clear from the very outset that this is not just another Leon. It starts at the front with a bumper that is larger than the one used on the other models in the range and includes an enormous air intake with honeycomb grille. The bumper at the rear of the car sports a black finish at the bottom, where the polished-steel twin tailpipes of the exhaust protrude prominently.

Moving round to the side, the door mirrors come with the silver-painted housing that is a hallmark of the FR models. The light-alloy wheels, which are available in 17-inch or optionally 18-inch formats, are particularly eye-catching. The wheels come in an exclusive FR design that gives a clear view of the impressive brake discs behind.

The sporty theme is continued inside the car where each and every element has been honed right down to the finest detail to immerse drivers in that unmistakable FR ambience the instant they take the wheel. Highlights include the exclusive sports seats with the initials FR embroidered into the seat backrest. The steering wheel with its micro-perforated leather grips at the sides as well as the gearshift knob are also exclusive to this version, as testified by the FR initials adorning both elements.



The mark of a champion

Even in standard guise the Leon boasts one of the sportiest-looking hatchback designs on the market, but now for those who desire still more, there is now a Leon with an exterior that would not look out of place on a race track. The new aerodynamic body kit takes its cue from the SEAT Leon model currently competing in the World Touring Car Championships.

The body kit that has been developed by SEAT Sport and is sold through the dealer network is made up of exclusively styled front and rear bumpers, top spoiler and side skirts. The front bumper incorporates larger air intakes which help to give the Leon an even sportier look.

At the rear is a bumper which has been designed to accommodate twin tailpipes, one on each side of the vehicle. Assembly is perfectly straightforward, however, as it uses the same mounting points as the original. Finally, the sporty spoiler at the top of the hatch sharpens the vehicle's dynamic performance by reducing drag.

This kit can also be combined with certain other accessories that give any SEAT Leon unique flair. Customers are truly spoilt for choice, with options including new wheel designs varying from 16 to 18 inches in size, Sport gear knobs and steering wheels, plus chromed door mirror housings, to name but a few.

The new model takes a bold step forwards by maximising the emphasis on sportiness and innovative design - two of the values at the heart of the Spanish brand, as the sensational FR models also demonstrate.

Elegant and sporty lines, exceptionally dynamic qualities and state-of-the-art technology are the hallmark credentials of the new Leon, a model which has been fully developed at SEAT's Technical Centre and which is produced at the factory in Martorell.

previous page | go to page 3