27 Jul 06
The underwhelming feeling does pass once you venture out onto the roads, however. The engine delivers plenty of punch from low down in the rev range, with the maximum 206lb/ft of torque available from 1800-5000rpm. There's no noticeable torque-steer when gunning it from standstill, and the steering provides a good indication as to what's happening under the front wheels.
Throwing the Leon FR into a corner reveals a remarkably agile chassis. Whereas the Golf GTI can sometimes feel a little lardy around the twisty bits, the Leon feels much more sprightly - which is impressive, considering its size and 1415kg weight. There's a hint of body roll, but not enough to throw you out of your seat around a tight roundabout, and the ride is firm, but comfortable. It doesn't crash over bumps and crumbling tarmac like fast Seats of old.
One aspect that does sully the overall driving experience, though, is the feel from the throttle pedal - or the complete lack of it. It's all too easy to find yourself with your right foot flat to the floor as there's very little resistance through the pedal; it's a case of all or nothing, rather than easily modulating a controlled delivery of power.
The brakes are strong, scrubbing all that speed without any drama and the six-speed manual gearbox (the flappy-paddle DSG 'box is a £1000 option) has a decent movement to it - although the gearknob makes for an awkward grip at times. Seat would be wise to ditch this monstrosity and replace it with something less cumbersome.
