A series of new spy photographs of the
next-generation 2020 Seat Leon have come across our desks and show the new
hatchback undergoing testing at the Nurburgring. These images show the new Leon
adorned with the least amount of camouflage we’ve seen so far, providing us
with a reasonably good idea of how the vehicle will look.
Up front, the first thing that stands out is the
re-designed grille, dramatically different than the grille of the outgoing
model and complete with a more detailed mesh design. The changes at the front
continue with fog lights on either side of the bumper and a single black
element stretching the width of the front which incorporates some additional
air intakes.
By comparison, the current Leon features two intakes
below the fog lights and a distinct secondary grille in the center. All in all,
the design of the new vehicle’s front looks a little softer despite similarly
sharp headlights being retained. There are also some obvious modifications at the rear with triangular
taillights immediately standing out. A sharp bumper and re-shaped license plate
cut-out are also visible.
Underpinning the new Spanish cousin to the VW Golf
will be the latest MQB platform. This means the new Leon will be lighter than
the vehicle it replaces and also be made available with mild-hybrid and plug-in
hybrid 48-volt powertrains. The latter of these will provide an all-electric
driving range of at least 50 km.
Seat will alter the interior and is tipped to introduce a new
infotainment system which supports over-the-air updates. It was revealed a couple of days
ago that the next-generation Cupra Leon will be offered with a plug-in hybrid
powertrain with 242 hp. An all-combustion engine alternative with in excess of
300 hp can also be expected.
