SEAT Leon ST estate - Interior & comfort (2014-2020)
Their sophisticated suspension makes high-end SEAT Leon ST models more comfortable, while the Cupra’s adjustable dampers offer Comfort and Sport modes
Choose a Leon ST model with 148bhp or less and it comes fitted with a basic rear suspension setup that’s perfectly acceptable, but some way off the best in class. All other versions have the sophisticated system that comes as standard on the Audi A3 and high-end VW Golf models. It lets the rear wheels absorb bumps independently of each other, so they deal better with lumpy roads and make the car feel more planted.
The Leon ST Cupra has Dynamic Chassis Control, which allows you to choose from three suspension setups that get progressively stiffer to suit your mood or the road you’re travelling down.
The new model is quieter inside than the old Leon, but driven back-to-back with the Volkswagen Golf or Audi A3 it’s (very slightly) noisier inside. The estate’s bigger boot means noise can resonate around the cabin a little more than in the hatchback – especially when the boot is empty.
SEAT Leon ST dashboard
There’s evidence of brand differentiation in the dashboard finish, too. Trim quality isn’t up to the high standards of the Audi A3 or VW Golf, but drive the SEAT in isolation and you’re unlikely to be anything other than impressed. Plastic quality is excellent more or less everywhere and the tapered-rectangle shapes used in the car’s dashboard design give it a slick look.
The standard eight-inch touchscreen adds modern appeal, is very intuitive to use and cuts down on the need for conventional dashboard buttons.
Equipment
All Leon STs come with alloy wheels, air-conditioning, an alarm, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a double boot floor and roof rails.
In August 2018, SEAT scrapped the basic S trim, and the now-entry-level SE feels upmarket with a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearstick, plus additional ambient lighting. The front seats get more adjustment and there’s cruise control to take the edge off motorway slogs, while in the rear there are electric windows and a central armrest.
The SE model also features a rear-seat folding mechanism that’s operated from within the boot, rather than having to lean in to pull a catch on the top of the back seats.
The Leon ST is also offered in SE Dynamic edition, with 17-inch wheels, tinted rear windows and rear parking sensors. The FR model looks sportier inside and out and comes with LED headlights, climate control and sports suspension as standard. FR Sport adds 18-inch alloy wheels, leather sports seats and a Winter Pack with heated seats. Xcellence trim brings a rear-view camera, keyless entry and coloured ambient cabin lighting.
Options
A standout option is the Driving assistance and Safety Pack. It adds lane-keeping assistance, traffic-sign recognition, automatic wipers, automatic headlights and LED interior lighting. An electric sunroof, tow bar and boot dividers are some of the only other options, along with an essential space-saver spare wheel.
