2001 Seat Leon S 1.4 16v from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Initially good, but disappointing of late

Faults:

Firstly the 2nd battery failed after just 3 days of ownership. Was put right quickly by the garage, however recent damp and cold conditions have meant that the car mists up and the back window fills with condensation. This was taken back to the garage and they claimed to have found the source and sealed it. This is still happening and it is due to go back in soon, I would like to hear of anyone else with a similar fault.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd January, 2002

13th Apr 2004, 04:18

I had the same problem with my Seat Leon and it was because the door seal on the drivers door was leaking, since I have had this fixed and the car has dried out it is fine. I suggest you take you car to a dealer and get the seals checked.

13th Sep 2007, 10:15

Hi, the problem goes on with my girlfriends Seat Toledo 2.3 v5; when we first bought the car the windows were always steaming up, and then after leaving it in the car park airport for two weeks, all the carpets were wet and we had to pay 220 quid to get all new rubbers around the doors. Seat tried to say someone replaced the windscreen and excuse themselves out of the bill.

2001 Seat Leon 20VT Cupra 1.8 turbo from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Small price - big fun

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

This car is illegally fast! The engine took nearly 3000 miles to loosen and now really delivers all of its 180 bhp.

0-60 is just rapid, especially if the traction control is switched to off, although this is actually unsafe in the wet.

Handling is crisp, although moderate understeer at tight corners needs to be accommodated.

Comfort mark is only a 7 due to very stiff suspension setting. This is also a plus as the car is nimble at high speed.

The specification in the Leon is excellent, the CD is high quality as is the trim. Instrumentation is clear and the steering wheel and gear shift add to the sporty feel.

The main detraction I have experienced is the poor cockpit visibility, particularly out of the rear.

Overall the Seat Leon Cupra is great fun, very cheap and scores an easy 10 for grin factor. BMW drivers simply don't understand why their 323i is nothing more than a dot in your mirrors!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th December, 2001

31st Jul 2002, 02:33

Maybe BMW drivers just can't be bothered.

9th Aug 2002, 05:32

"The engine took nearly 3000 miles to loosen"

The rest will loosen around 10.000 miles, you will notice this by parts dropping of, leaking doors and electrical failures.

2001 Seat Leon 110 TDi SE 1.9 turbo diesel 110bhp from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Perfect

Faults:

A small squeak has appeared when I depress the clutch pedal - common fault.

Nothing else.

General Comments:

Engine not really run in, but still managing 50-60mpg on a 50 mile motorway commute.

Very good specification including traction control (used once!)

Very quick, similar in handling to my old Mk3 Golf GTi.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th November, 2001

30th Nov 2001, 15:21

I guess that the engine really is art. It gives you tremendous power and does not punish a right foot made out of lead at the gas station.

Excellent choice!

10th Jan 2002, 08:30

I did want one but the price was just too much, Seat dealers were not generous with my trade-in. Still great looking car and I just hope they drop in the 150bhp turbo D in time for my next car.

30th Jan 2002, 12:42

I imported one for GBP£11300 OTR with a 6-CD changer and 3-year warranty included, so excellent value for money if you can do that. The clutch squeak has also developed with mine - will have to see how good the dealer is.

12th Feb 2003, 06:49

My wife has just swapped her 1 year old Puma for a '52 plate Leon Tdi SE 110, as it impressed her so much on the test drive. I have to admit, I was quite impressed too. We pick it up next Friday (20/02/03), so I will update my comments once we've had it for a month or two!

Our local main dealer has so far been fantastic, hopefully the after sales will continue on the same level.

Watch this space....