The SEAT León has been an immensely popular small family car since it was first manufactured by the Spanish car manufacturer SEAT in 1999. It has been built using the Volkswagen A platform, which is also shared by the VW Golf, Audi A3 and Škoda Octavia.
León Mk. I (1999-2005)
The León Mk I, which was essentially the hatchback version of the SEAT Toledo, was marketed as a cheaper and sportier alternative to the VW Golf. It had an aggressive look and closely focused suspension which improved its handling, giving it a more sporty appeal. The more expensive versions were equipped with more powerful engines, with the range starting at 1.4L and including two varieties of the Volkswagen Group's 20 valve turbocharged 1.8 L engine. There was also a 2.8 L V6 engine available with a capacity to generate 204 PS (150 kW). Those interested in the sportier versions could opt for the León Cupra, which had a 1.8 Turbo producing 180 PS (132 kW) or the León Cupra R with a 225 PS (165 kW) driving force. A 150 PS (110 kW) version powered by VW's 1.9 TDI engine was also available, with its trim status varying from Cupra to FR (Formula Racing).
Furthermore, some Leons were fitted with all-wheel drive, with the same Haldex differential as the VW Golf 4Motion. All engines producing more than 130 PS (96 kW) were linked with a standard 6-speed manual transmission.
León Mk. II
The newer León, constructed on the VW Golf V platform, has a sleeker exterior featuring hidden wipers and more integrated rear door handles. The car design is the handiwork of Walter de'Silva, and follows the same design style as the SEAT Altea. Despite having a sporty appearance, the engine range is more limited than that of the VW Golf. The base model features an 8-valve 1.6 L engine with 102 PS (75 kW). The sportier variants include a 2.0 FSI with 150 PS (110 kW), or the popular 2.0 TDI Diesel with 140 PS (103 kW). Both can be linked to a standard 6-speed manual or a DSG semi-automatic gearbox. At the helm of power was a 2.0 TFSI engine with 185 PS (136 kW), a feature that is unique to the León. However, due to its average reviews and low demand, it was taken off the shelves later to make way for more sought-after FR variants.
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