SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE (2014-2018) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4.2 out of 54.2

Written by Graeme Lambert Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 52 - 58 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

All-diesel line-up for the X-Perience
Fuel economy of more than 50mpg
Shouldn’t cost too much to run

If keeping every day running costs low are a priority, then a regular Leon ST may be better suited to you, as it’s available with lower-powered, more economical engines.

That said, the two diesel options in the X-Perience are hardly thirsty – and they’re competitive with rivals, too.

The 2.0-litre TDI with 150hp is capable of returning up to 58.9mpg on the combined cycle, while the DSG-equipped 184hp version isn’t fair behind at 52.3mpg.

In the real world, it’s likely you’ll see mid- to late 40s in everyday driving, but you should manage more than 50mpg if you’re not too heavy on the accelerator.

It’s easy to decipher the difference between Leon X-Perience models in terms of CO2 emissions. The 150hp SE Technology with a manual gearbox emits 129g/km, while the 184hp SE Lux with DSG gearbox emits 139g/km.

That means the 150hp diesel will be the one for company car drivers due to its lower emissions (and lower BIK), with the 184hp diesel more likely to appeal to private buyers.

Leon has proven reliable so far
Mechanical bits are tried-and-tested
Should be little to worry about

Tracking SEAT Leon X-Perience reliability is actually relatively easy, since both engines and gearboxes have been used in other Leon models for some time now – and there are no nasties yet reported.

Even the 4Drive fifth-generation Haldex all-wheel drive system is used throughout the rest of the VW Group without issue – and Haldex can be found in many other brands – so we’d have no qualms about this element’s reliability either.

Some of the Leon’s interior plastics do feel a little scratchy, but none are likely to mark permanently without real abuse. The load area is well-trimmed too, which is important for user who’ll be slotting bikes and other outdoor equipment in and out of it.

During many months with a Leon five-door hatchback and three-door SC model on our long term fleet we had no trouble with reliability, quality or trim falling off and we’d expect this model to perform exactly the same.

Only one recall for the Leon has been issued, regarding the child locks disengaging. This should have been fixed under warranty, so there shouldn’t be any concerns about this if and when you come to buy one.