2017 SEAT Leon Xcellence
SEAT will begin accepting orders towards the end of
2016 with deliveries happening in the first months of 2017.
The highlight of the range is the 1.6 TDI, a new
unit with 115 PS, a grand increase of 5 PS. On the Leon ST with 4Drive, the 2.0
TDI 150 PS is now available with a 7-speed DSG, a trick learned from the
Tiguan. That one sounds like something worth picking up, but the rest of the
Leon range is unchanged. Diesels range from the 1.6 with 90 PS to the 2.0 TDI
that's still maxed out at 184 PS.
The gasoline range goes from 110 to 180 PS. While
SEAT says the "1.0 TSI with 115 PS is the stand-out version," it was
available even before the facelift. And related to sport, it must be mentioned
that a CUPRA version of the New SEAT Leon will be available shortly, complete
with its own surprises
The 2017 Leon is distinguished by a
grille that's 40mm wider. SEAT says it's using the sort of chrome you'd
normally see on high-end luxury models. The headlights have a new signature
borrowed from the Ateca. LEDs are also used by the daytime running lights that
are integrated into the air intakes.
Instead of copying the infotainment from the Golf, SEAT is
giving us a brand new 8-inch screen that has only two buttons and a knob. It's
like what we saw on the e-Golf Touch concept in Paris. In line with the times,
SEAT got rid of the CD slot and is instead relying on Mirror Link, Android
Auto, and Apple CarPlay. There's even wireless phone charging.
The company also decided to get rid of the manual
handbrake, a move that's sure to prove controversial. Ambient lighting can be
ordered, just like in the Ateca, and there's a new trim level called Xcellance.
It's basically the full-luxury version of the car
that's sure to sell well in Germany. It will cost the same as the Leon FR trim
and will feature partial Alcantara leather and all the creature comforts.
