The economy has improved over the last 3000 miles or so – up from 43.3 to 46.2mpg – and it’s also reasonably comfortable (it’s easier to forgive the firm seats and ride on a mountain road than the M25). All the kit – sat nav, phone connectivity, cruise, climate control etc – are simple and effective.
Where the Leon SC really scores is its fun factor. For a modestly priced ‘sensible’ car like this, it’s just a dream to drive. 100 mile trips are a pleasure, not a chore; slow stuff is passed safely and quickly, and the endless bends just put a smile on your face. In that context, the 46.2mpg starts to look rather good.
Downsides are few, and mostly irritations rather than anything serious.
Yes it’s a bit firm to sit in, and yes the brakes grab which is tiresome in traffic.
But the worst of the rest is the fuel gauge which goes from two comforting white bars to one alarming red bar very abruptly. I very nearly ran out the first time it happened.
Nor is there a warning light for screen wash, but that’s hardly life threatening. And one final curse at the stupid CD player which was still buried deep in the glove box last time I looked.
Do I miss the other 2 doors? That depends on how sensible I’m feeling (click here for more on living with a 2-door car).
With other people and their stuff to carry, of course another 2 doors would be better. But let’s face it, for most of my miles it’s just me, and the low, cosseting, quick, sharp nature of the thing outweighs the sensible by some margin.
So if you’re on your own for most of your business miles, and especially if the SEAT Leon SC isn’t your only car, think about it. Quite hard.
