Seat has started testing the next-generation Leon
with its full production body. The production bodywork is covered in a rather clever camouflage
wrap, hiding most of the front end but certain elements can still be
distinguished through the disguise.
The lighting signature of the rear end also reveals
more than Seat would want to, showing the LED setup of the taillights which are
going to be connected via a light bar. So far the shape of the next-gen Leon
looks clean and rather safe but it’s rather early to jump on conclusions.
The new Seat Leon will ride on an updated version of
the existing MQB platform, which will be lighter despite the wheelbase being
slightly longer, thanks to the increased use of lightweight materials. The
upcoming compact model will also adopt the same 48-volt electrical architecture
with the next Golf, as part of the new mild-hybrid powertrain. A plug-in hybrid
derivative with at least 50 km of pure electric range is also
reportedly coming. The rest of the range will be comprised from three- and
four-cylinder TSI petrol units and four-cylinder TDI diesel options.
The new Spanish compact hatchback will benefit from
the latest driver assistance systems too, with the VW Group wanting to bring
the more advanced semi-autonomous system in this class of vehicles. The roomier
cabin is set to get a new digital instrument cluster, along with a big
touchscreen display for the updated infotainment system, which will feature
over-the-air updates.
The fourth generation of the Seat Leon will be
revealed during the summer of 2019, so expect to see more revealing spy shots
of the Spanish hatch in the upcoming months.
