General Comments:
I thought it only fair to review this New Leon as I also left a review of my old car, the out-going Leon on this website.
I obtained this car as an ex-demo when it was 5 months old. The reliability has been outstanding, although perhaps you'd expect that of a car this age. Running costs are brilliant, and fuel economy is 50mpg+ on some long journeys.
Suspension is probably a little too firm. Comfy enough to ride in at high speeds, but 20-30mph can require a trip to the dentist to replace fillings. I really think the manufacturer made a mistake with that.
Having said that, because of the suspension, the car is stuck to the road like glue. The handling is immense. Due to the fantastic torque the car takes off like a rocket in low revs, best in 3rd and 4th gears because in 2nd the whole experience is over as quickly as it's begun.
The interior is, I would say, considerably cheaper feeling and less solid than a Golf or Germanic equivalent, but it's no worse than the average car. Probably still a cut above most in terms of build. The stereo system is a disappointment.
Overall, it's a satisfying car to drive and own, with a few little flaws. But it looks lovely and is cost-effective to own, so until I can afford that BMW 1-series or Audi A3, I'm happy.
22nd Dec 2006, 04:53
These car are seriously quick once they have been modded.
I do not think that you can get a better ALL round package for cheaper.
The only problem is that you need to learn how to control the weight applyed on the acceleration pedal :)