SEAT Leon

The new Leon's radical styling makes it stand out against more mundane looking competition. It shares many components with the Volkswagen Golf, although it has unique bodywork, interiors, suspension and engine management system. It's keenly priced and designed to appeal to those who like something a bit stylish with a sporty edge. The hot-hatch FR version comes with a choice of a 200bhp turbocharged petrol engine (shared with the Volkswagen Golf GTI) or a 170bhp 2.0 TDI. The FR has more focused handling than lesser models in the range and is genuinely satisfying to drive, but the best news is its price which undercuts rivals significantly.

16V, SPORT, TDI, T, FSI

The model badging is rather ambiguous. It commences with the Essence which is only offered with the 1.6 petrol engine and is equipped with electric front windows and mirrors, central locking, traction control, tyre pressure warning sensor and six-speaker CD system. The Reference model is offered with the 1.6 petrol or the 1.9TDI and additionally has air-conditioning. Reference Sport model is equipped with either 2.0FSI or 2.0TDI engines, plus sports seats, sports suspension and alloy wheels. Stylance model is offered with the entire engine line-up and is fitted with climate control, electric windows all around, eight-speaker CD with steering wheel mounted stereo controls and cruise control. The Sport has all the luxury items from the Stylance model, combined with sports seats and suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels. FR models have further up-rated suspension, bigger brakes and unique sport seats. Options include satellite navigation, Bluetooth compatibility, rear side airbags, iPod and MP3 player connectors.

2.0 16V TDI SPORT