SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI

The previous Leon wasn’t quite a class leader, but it was a sensible buy. Revisions under the skin are subtle but useful, and the new diesel makes it a worthy contender. It looks great, the interior is well finished, handling and ride are well judged and it’s affordable, too. If you’re in the market for a sporty but practical hatch, then the Leon FR is well worth a look.

The new SEAT Leon FR has no problem turning heads, but it’s not only the orange paintwork that deserves a second look. Under the bonnet you’ll find a new 2.0-litre TDI diesel, which is soon to be found in Volkswagen’s hot Golf GTD.

This is the first time that a common-rail diesel has appeared in the Leon range, but it’s been worth the wait. The 170bhp powerplant boasts impressive refinement, and the brilliant six-speed DSG gearbox is a joy to use. Performance is not to be sniffed at, either, as the Leon hits 0-62mph in eight seconds flat, yet still returns a healthy average of 49.6mpg.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the SEAT Leon

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The extra weight of the diesel compared to the petrol unit is apparent, and can lead to understeer during hard driving. All hot FR models come with the firm’s new XDS technology, which mimics a traditional limited-slip differential and keeps torque steer in check.

Instead of firming up the Leon, SEAT has fitted springs that are 20 per cent softer than the previous model’s, so ride comfort is better than your average hot hatch, yet handling is still sharp and responsive.

It looks pretty similar to the previous FR model, but the new Leon offers a great blend of performance and practicality.

Rival: Auris SR 180 D4D
Toyota's contender has a 5bhp advantage over the Leon, but it’s a softer and less focused drive, and doesn’t have the option of an electronic LSD.