Model tested: Seat Leon FR 2-litre TFSI DSG
Price: £17,695
Date tested: September 2007
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 81%
The Leon is a five-door hatchback for those looking for something with flair and verve. While power-hungry petrolheads might chase the range topping 240bhp Cupra, there's a risk they might miss this; the sublime FR.

1. Looks
Seat doesn't do conventional. The Leon's rear door handles are hidden in the door pillars, while its sides are scalloped and the bonnet is awash with curves. The sporty FR (Formula Racing) includes sportier bumpers and 17-inch alloys.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The flair continues inside with plenty of curves and a chunky steering wheel. The controls glow a piercing red when the lights are on, and can be tricky to read.
8/10

3. Practicality
The Leon's 341-litre boot isn't class-leading, but big enough – fold the seats and space expands to 1,166 litres. The narrow and high sill hampers access while taller drivers may find the sloping roofline restricts forward visibility.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
For a hot hatch the ride is good. The steering is responsive and offers plenty of feedback, there's massive amounts of grip, allowing the driver to make the most of the fantastic chassis.
9/10

5. Performance
There are two 2-litre engines available with the Leon FR: a 168bhp diesel and a 197bhp petrol. Both are good performers, with a massive amount of torque. The petrol FR covers 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and tops out at 142mph.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
The Leon FR sits in insurance group 14E and should manage 35.8mpg; we managed 26mpg. Emissions of 190g/km of CO2 place it in tax Band F, at £205 per year.
8/10

7. Reliability
Seat is part of the VW/Audi group, and is assembled with the same care. The Reliability Index says Seat performs better than most with respect to the frequency and costs of repairs.
9/10

8. Safety
The Leon has scored four stars in EuroNCAP tests. Six airbags are standard, with the option of rear side 'bags. There are also traction and stability control, ABS and brake assistance.
7/10

9. Equipment
Given the bargain price tag, there's plenty of kit as standard, such as dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system and remote central locking.
8/10

10. X-Factor
Fast, fun and ferocious, the Leon FR is arguably the pick of the Leon range. It might not be as fast as the Cupra version, but it handles better and is tremendous value for money.
8/10