Seat reveals 2017 Leon 24 | 10 | 2016
SEAT HAS GIVEN its 2017 Leon range a midlife facelift, which includes a subtle styling update, new technology and two new engines (Roadtest — Seat Leon SC 1.2TSI). The new Leon will arrive in Scottish showrooms next February.
Boasting a larger front grille, plus new front and rear lights that now incorporate the same LED signature as the Ateca, the refreshed Leon now also looks bigger.
Inside the cabin — which Seat claims is quieter than the current model — an electric parking brake is now fitted on the revised central console, and certain Leon trims now have ambient LED lighting, which can be controlled via the infotainment system.
There’s also the option of a new digital dash, very similar to Audi’s Virtual Cockpit system: it goes by the catchy name, FPK (programmable instrument cluster in German). There’s also a ‘connectivity box’ — already available on the Ateca — which incorporates wireless charging.
On all but entry-level S spec model, the size of the infotainment screen has grown from 6.5in to 8.0in. In addition, it also clears some of the buttons from the dashboard and adds functionality to the old system.
Another technology inherited from the Ateca, Seat’s traffic jam assist system — which allows semi-autonomous driving up to 37mph — is also available, as is traffic sign recognition and blind spot detection. It’s expected these will be options across the range, but standard on higher-spec cars.
As well as offering a parking assist system that enables the car can park itself, the facelifted Leon also benefits from improved sat-nav and camera systems.
The 2017 Leon also gets two new engines: in addition to the 1.6-litre TDI engine, for the first time the Leon gets VW Group’s 1.0 three-cylinder TSI unit. Both power plants deliver 113bhp. Seat won’t reveal fuel economy or emissions figures until prices and specs are announced later this year.
But we do know the range includes five- or six-speed manual units, all well as double-clutch DSG with six- or seven-speeds; and there will be five trim levels available in the UK, including the addition of a new top-spec level. Entry-level cars will be badged S, moving up through SE Dynamic, SE, Technology, FR and new Xcellence.
The new range-topping Xcellence is aimed at providing a premium feel, with interior ambient lighting, keyless entry and go, upgraded upholstery and LED rear indicators all fitted as standard.
Related: VW unveils all-electric up!
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Jim McGill