Two of Britain’s top motoring magazines, Autocar and Auto Express, have lavished praise on the new Leon SC after testing our newest models in Spain.
Auto Express awards Leon SC 2.0 TDI FR five stars
“SEAT has always struggled to establish its identity as the Volkswagen Group’s sporty brand,” said Auto Express in its 6 March issue, “but the Leon SC is about to change all that.
“… the shorter wheelbase [and lower roof compared with the five-door model] means more nimble handling and the stance is instantly more aggressive. However you look at it, the SC is a great design.
“You’d imagine removing a section of the chassis would impact on practicality, but the car demands few compromises. The 380-litre boot size is the same size as the five door’s, and while there is less leg room, one six footer can sit comfortably behind another.
“Don’t be fooled by the TDI badge, this is a genuinely hot hatch contender, and the way it punches out of bends is startling.
“The steering is light but quick to react… It’s the kind of car that will appeal as much to a boy racer as to a family man who is not ready to compromise on style.”
Autocar awards Leon SC 1.2 TSI 140PS four stars
“Inside, the cabin… the quality of materials and ease of use of the switch gear are commendable,” said Autocar in its 6 March issue. “The 138bhp turbocharged 1.4 litre engine is smooth and packed with mid-range pull, delivering perky performance and decent real-world economy.
“Accurate steering goes from being a touch too light at low speeds to weighting up reassuringly with speed. “Combined with its short wheelbase, wide tracks and low centre of gravity, the SC is a joy to drive in the twisties.Surprisingly, the sporty set up doesn’t appear to come at the expense of ride comfort.
“This is a very fine car indeed. As with the five-door, SEAT has demonstrated its confidence to go its own way within the Volkswagen Group.”
The new SEAT Leon SC has been unveiled this week at the Geneva motor show.