SEAT Leon FR (2006 - 2012) 2.0 TSI FR 5d (2009/09) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That you like a bit of fun in a car but you're not a yobbo! ...unless you get the yellow one.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all love it - it's really smart looking and comfy in the back.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No but only cos it's boring to buy the same car twice. Plus the interior is a little plasticky. I'd definitely buy a VAG car again though.

What are you likely to buy next?

Just traded it in for a BMW Z4 which I love!!! It's a 3.0 si sport - i'm just about to do a review of that too do check it out if you're looking.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,500

When did you buy the car?

February 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Very good - I bought from a friend who was going to give it to a dealer. I sold it for £5k 18 months on. Even if I hadn't got a good deal, depreciation seems pretty decent.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was actually a 56 plate but Parkers won't let me select that! I had a mark 1 Focus ST and wanted something faster, more economical and more refined.

What was the dealer like?

N/A although for the record I find most dealers quite shady!

What's it like to drive?

The power is very accessible although it's not as quick as i'd like. The suspension is very firm which gives it a slightly uncomfortable ride and I found it doesn't handle particularly well in spite of that. It certainly wasn't as chuckable as my old Focus ST. For me though, that was great. I wanted a slightly more refined hot hatch - one that shifts but is quiet and comfortable. The engine is quiet and the exhaust tame. There's even padding under the bonnet as sound proofing. This is more GT than GTI although I don't think that's a bad thing. If you want something a bit more leary, get a yellow Cupra!

What's it like to park?

Really hard to judge where the back is - I had some really good after market parking sensors fitted that were great. The front end is easy to judge. The 18" wheels are easy to kerb though - that's the most upsetting noise you'll hear!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Water pump needed replacing which i'm told is quite common. Otherwise, it was great. It likes oil though and I went through about a litre between services. Again, forums suggest that's common with this engine.

What's most practical about your car?

As a big hatchback it's great for practicality. The electric folding mirrors are great and it was very well specced. The seats are very comfy too and really hug you. That's just as well as it's quite a firm ride!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Where to start?? The FR has sooo much kit as standard! Favourite option would be the 18" wheels - they're a must. Favourite gadget would be bluetooth handsfree (closely followed by cruise control).