Photo: SEAT Leon 5F Italy
Thanks to the Facebook group SEAT Leon 5F Italy, we have the first photos detailing the mid-life refresh that will affect the entire family of compact hatchback models. It's a front bumper (obviously) belonging to the FR trim level.
Even if you have been looking at the Leon every day for the past month, it will be difficult for you to see the differences. The big one is that the fog lights in the lower bumper are slimmer and probably use LED technology. There is also a small piece of plastic that flows towards the middle grille, just like on the new Ateca SUV.
As for the upper grille, its mesh has been redesigned with a larger honeycomb design and there's a slight convex curve at the top which suggests the Leon 5F also has a new hood.
With the previous generation, the FR was a true hot model equipped with the 200 hp Golf GTI motor. However, now it's just a trim level that you can have with several engines, ranging from 125 to 184 PS. The only major difference between the FR and the regular model is the lowered suspension, so you'll see this front end on all Leons.
Frankly, we can't act surprised by the fact that SEAT is only doing a minor update for the car because it did the same thing with the Ibiza. It's a relatively small car company which is currently diverting most of its funds to the development of a subcompact SUV.
If we remember correctly, the Leon was the second MQB car to be revealed, right after the Audi A3 in 2012. That means the Golf is the next one due for a minor facelift, which is when we predict the new 1.5 TSI will become available, being the biggest update received by MQB cars since the e-tron hybrid system.
The 1.5 TSI will replace the 1.4 and offer the same 150 horsepower. However, it will be more efficient while its response will be dramatically improved thanks to the first variable geometry turbocharger in this segment.
SEAT has a lot of updating to do, as the Leon has several versions, including three body types, four suspension systems, all-wheel drive options, and of course, the Cupra performance models.
As for the upper grille, its mesh has been redesigned with a larger honeycomb design and there's a slight convex curve at the top which suggests the Leon 5F also has a new hood.
With the previous generation, the FR was a true hot model equipped with the 200 hp Golf GTI motor. However, now it's just a trim level that you can have with several engines, ranging from 125 to 184 PS. The only major difference between the FR and the regular model is the lowered suspension, so you'll see this front end on all Leons.
Frankly, we can't act surprised by the fact that SEAT is only doing a minor update for the car because it did the same thing with the Ibiza. It's a relatively small car company which is currently diverting most of its funds to the development of a subcompact SUV.
If we remember correctly, the Leon was the second MQB car to be revealed, right after the Audi A3 in 2012. That means the Golf is the next one due for a minor facelift, which is when we predict the new 1.5 TSI will become available, being the biggest update received by MQB cars since the e-tron hybrid system.
The 1.5 TSI will replace the 1.4 and offer the same 150 horsepower. However, it will be more efficient while its response will be dramatically improved thanks to the first variable geometry turbocharger in this segment.
SEAT has a lot of updating to do, as the Leon has several versions, including three body types, four suspension systems, all-wheel drive options, and of course, the Cupra performance models.
Google News