2002 Seat Leon S review from UK and Ireland

Ignition coil went at 77,000 miles.

Alternator went at 76,000 miles.

Horn didn't work.

Passenger side seat belt only retracts when it feels like it.

Leak in both passenger and driver side foot well.

Overall I am very impressed with the Leon as I was a bit worried about buying what is essentially a cheap Golf.

The car handles very well. It also performs well, but only when it feels like it! There have been a few occasion's that the car has felt completely lifeless and has needed to be worked very hard. However, for the most part it performs very well, although it still requires a down-change when joining the motorway as it can be very sluggish from 40-55 in fifth gear.

The car grips the road very well, and it seems to make no fuss over cornering at 75mph.

It is easy to drive as both the clutch and steering are light, however the gearbox can be quite notchy. There is a lot of communication and feedback from the steering, but the brakes on the other hand can feel a bit ineffective - especially at speed.

Overall I am pleased with the Leon - as mentioned above. I have had just short of 40,000 miles worth of pretty trouble free motoring apart from the 2 blips with the coil and alternator. Fuel economy is good too, unless the car is worked hard - then it is very unforgiving on the fuel bill!!