Performance ****
An eager, flexible 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 185bhp powers the most sporting model at launch, while a capable 102bhp 1.6-litre unit is the mainstay. The 2.0-litre FSI engine adds a large dollop of extra zest and the two economical diesels will be popular with business users. The 1.9-litre diesel has a rather narrow power band, however.
Ride & handling ****
As it uses many of the engines and underpinnings that have reinvigorated the latest VW Golf, the Leon offers a superb drive and now rivals the class best for driving enjoyment. It handles well when tackling twisty roads, and the standard suspension copes well with the vagaries of British Tarmac.
Refinement ****
All but the ageing 1.9-litre diesel engine are smooth and refined, although the 1.6-litre petrol unit has to work hard on more demanding roads. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit is impressively smooth and quiet. Wind and road noise are well isolated although the suspension can be heard and felt over rougher surfaces.

Buying & owning ****
The Leon is attractively priced and yet equipment levels are high. A three-year, 60,000-mile warranty, 12 years’ anti-rust cover and three years’ paint warranty are included in the price. It may not attain the cast-iron residuals of its VW Golf stablemate, but we expect used values to be stronger than those of many mainstream rivals.
Quality & reliability ****
All the controls have a quality feel and the usual high standards associated with the VW Group’s interiors abound in the Leon. Robust seating fabrics, high-quality plastics and tight fitting panels all contribute to a first-class ambience.
Safety & security ****
Safety kit is comprehensive, as all models are fitted with anti-lock brakes, electronic driver’s aids, plus front, side and curtain airbags. As a result, the Leon’s prospects for crash protection look encouraging. As a rule, VW group cars are difficult to steal and we don’t expect the Leon to be any different.

Behind the wheel ****
Supportive sport seats with big bolsters give a comfortable driving position, and every model has two-way steering adjustment and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. Less impressive are the thick, sweeping windscreen pillars that create large blind spots which will result in drivers engaging in plenty of neck-craning when exiting junctions.
Space & practicality ***
There’s plenty of headroom and an abundance of elbow space for a quartet of six-footers, as well as ample legroom in the back. Some practicality has, however, been compromised in favour of stylistic integrity. The Leon’s boot is generous enough, but its entrance is awkwardly shaped and there’s a high load lip to negotiate.
Equipment ****
Three trim levels are available, ranging in plushness from Reference, through Stylance to top-of-the-range Sport. All models come with six airbags, electric front windows, remote central locking and air-conditioning. Sport versions add the likes of alloy wheels, sports suspension, rear electric windows, cruise control and a leather-bound steering wheel complete with audio controls.