SEAT Leon Hatchback (2000 - 2005) 1.8 20V T Sport 5d (2000/X) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Has the confidence to buy something other than a Golf, likes to have fun when driving.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They like it, brother wants my engine for his Ibiza! Friends enjoy going out driving in it.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes but the newer version, probably the diesel Cupra or FR.
What are you likely to buy next?
Lexus, Saab or another Leon probably.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£3,500
When did you buy the car?
June 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes, as I've bought several cars there.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
It's quick, good build quality and smaller than my previous car. Also the wife liked it and feels happy driving it.
What was the dealer like?
Fine, their after care is excellent and they looked into two small problems I had with the car with no quibble.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Fast, now spins the wheels in 3rd in cold weather on a dry road! It doesn't like warmer weather so much as it has the smaller turbo and prefers cold, dense air. Long journeys are easy as you can stay in 6th most of the time. Handling could be improved but I don't want to lose the ability to drive over speed ramps, I have made that mistake before with lowered cars. Brakes are fine but headlights could be better.
What's it like to park?
Fine to park.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
A few rattles have developed in the driver's door, and the remote central locking doesn't always work which is annoying. I think the two are connected but I hate taking the doors apart! The petrol cap locking mechanism froze and wouldn't close the other day as well at the petrol station. The LCD panel for the climate control has broken, with two large black circles at either end. Niggly things that would cost a fortune to get looked into.
What's most practical about your car?
It has enough doors and a large boot, and good seats in the front.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The engine, now remapped.
