THE new Seat Leon feels so classy that you can’t help wondering whether the Volkswagen group, to which Seat belongs, has created a problem for itself.

For the Seat and VW Golf are pretty well identical under the skin yet the Seat feels classier inside and clearly undercuts the VW on price.

The new Leon, just launched in the UK, boasts the latest VW group technology, uprated engines, subtle new looks, practicality and splendid value for money.

Even the entry versions have a touch of handling flair that is further enhanced by the faster FR and Cupra models.

However, cutting-edge technology has been the main priority for the refresh along with new trim levels and engine options.

The new technology includes improved smartphone compatibility with a fully digital dash. Other features include traffic jam assist, a pedestrian protection system and park assist.

Petrol models are aplenty and start with the 112bhp three-cylinder 1.0-litre TSi, then the 1.2 TSi and moves up to the high performance 2.0-litre models.

There is also a good range of diesels, including an uprated 1.6-litre TDi with 115bhp on tap and an upmarket all-road style 2.0-litre X-Perience model, an interesting option for some drivers.

On-the-road prices start at £17,455 for the five-door 1.2-litre TSi, rising to £32,210 for the top-specification SE X-Perience Lux model.

The high-powered models are great fun to drive far and fast but the lower-powered cars are also impressive for their performances. They offer a comfortable and composed ride with well weighted and accurate steering which inspires confidence during press-on driving.

Expected to be the biggest seller is the 1.4-litre TSi, with prices from £19,340, though the 1.0 TSi costing £19,235 in Ecomotive trim, with 115bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox, is well worth putting on a shortlist.

These smaller-engine models with excellent levels of standard kit should prove perfectly adequate for many private and business drivers.

The 1.0-litre, for instance, accelerates from standstill to 62mph in 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of 122mph.

And there is strong pulling power available for overtaking and fast changes of direction thanks to the assistance of a turbocharger. Average fuel consumption for the Ecomotive hatch is 64.2mpg with C02 emissions at 102.

Seat’s diesels are renowned for their blend of performance and economy and one of the favourites is the 150bhp 2.0-litre. It’s a quick, smooth and quiet operator and is exceedingly practical in estate form.

Fuel consumption averages 67.3mpg with C02 emissions of 112.

Roy Lewis