Old Shape Leon TDI - 110/130/150
Discussion
First post in the Seat forum so please be gentle. Am contemplating retiring my Puma from family car service as we need something bigger and with extra doors. Still want a sporty drive and have been advised to look at the Leon's by a mate. The Puma's ride/handling compromise is about perfect, just isn't big enough any more. Not looking for a car whose ride shortens your spine or loosens fillings.
The TDI's combination of economy (grand parents live in Scotland + travel many miles a year with my hobby) and performance seems to be favourable.
I'd really like the Cupra type sporty look. So what engine combination is available in what? All the nomenclature of 'FR' - 'Cupra' - 'Cupra R' is bl**dy confusing. Also what Insurance groups are the respective 110/130/150 Diesels.
Am I right in saying that If I want sporty looking one I have a minimum of 130bhp? Anything that you consider a must have spec wise or any pitfalls.
Seat fans - your advice please.
Cheers.
The TDI's combination of economy (grand parents live in Scotland + travel many miles a year with my hobby) and performance seems to be favourable.
I'd really like the Cupra type sporty look. So what engine combination is available in what? All the nomenclature of 'FR' - 'Cupra' - 'Cupra R' is bl**dy confusing. Also what Insurance groups are the respective 110/130/150 Diesels.
Am I right in saying that If I want sporty looking one I have a minimum of 130bhp? Anything that you consider a must have spec wise or any pitfalls.
Seat fans - your advice please.
Cheers.
If you want a "sporty looking" one, I think 150bhp is your only option.
The top model available with the 130bhp motor would be an SE, which looks more similar to the lower range models.
So that means a Cupra or an FR (there's no diesel Cupra R).
The FR effectively replaced the Cupra - there are minor differences in spec, but not many. AFAIK many of the accessories were dealer-fitted, so specs can vary from car to car (e.g. mine came with folding mirrors, which weren't standard, but I didn't pay for them).
Handling is OK for a FWD hatch if nothing special - the TDI lump means it's quite nose-heavy compared to the petrol Leon. I find it's not particularly quick from a standing start, but the mid-range go is handy in normal driving. Overtaking is a breeze provided the turbo's up to speed.
Ride quality is what you'd expect from a "sporty" hatchback.
2000rpm in 6th = 70+mph, so excellent for motorways (plenty in reserve from there!)
Check on seatcupra.net for plenty of information on known problems, modifications, etc.
The top model available with the 130bhp motor would be an SE, which looks more similar to the lower range models.
So that means a Cupra or an FR (there's no diesel Cupra R).
The FR effectively replaced the Cupra - there are minor differences in spec, but not many. AFAIK many of the accessories were dealer-fitted, so specs can vary from car to car (e.g. mine came with folding mirrors, which weren't standard, but I didn't pay for them).
Handling is OK for a FWD hatch if nothing special - the TDI lump means it's quite nose-heavy compared to the petrol Leon. I find it's not particularly quick from a standing start, but the mid-range go is handy in normal driving. Overtaking is a breeze provided the turbo's up to speed.
Ride quality is what you'd expect from a "sporty" hatchback.
2000rpm in 6th = 70+mph, so excellent for motorways (plenty in reserve from there!)
Check on seatcupra.net for plenty of information on known problems, modifications, etc.
Edited by Robbo1 on Tuesday 1st May 16:48
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