Seat has launched its new Leon, with a plug-in hybrid option set to join the range for the first time. The Spanish firm’s best-selling model will feature an electric range of 37 miles on a single charge when it arrives in a few months’ time wearing an eHybrid badge.
Sharing many traits with the new VW Golf, the Leon will use a 1.4 litre TSI petrol engine and electric motor for a combined 204 hp. Power goes through a six-speed DSG automatic transmission, and the motor is backed by a 13 kWh battery.
Plug-in hybrid versions will be available for both the hatch and sportstourer estate models, with no pure-electric version due because of Seat’s forthcoming El-Born based EV, which shares underpinnings with the VW ID. 3.
The next stage of Seat’s design showcases sharper lines and creases across the range, while the interior also shares a number of elements found in the new Golf. Seat is promising that the Leon is the company’s first fully-connected car, with “in-car and out-car connectivity”.
Having invested more than 1.1 billion euros (930 million) in developing the new Leon, Seat is focusing on safety and efficiency for the model. Also offered in terms of powertrains are a suite of new petrol and diesel engines, plus mild-hybrid units.
Safety kit includes predictive adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, and travel assist, with features combining to provide driver assistance as far as regulations currently allow.
