SEAT is hoping to build on a strong 2013 so far with the unveiling at Frankfurt of new versions of its critically acclaimed Leon - both the ST estate and a fuel-sipping Ecomotive model.
Exterior
The ST estate we've covered before but it bears repeating that it's both handsome and practical, with a 587-litre boot and it marks, along with the three-door SC, the first time ever in the model's 14-year history that there has been more than one Leon body style.
Mechanicals
This is where the Ecomotive version kicks in and it's effectively SEAT's version of Volkswagen's fuel-saving and emissions-reducing BlueMotion technology. The Ecomotive is the lowest emitting Leon ever made, with a CO2 rating of just 87g/km. Fuel economy for all versions of the Ecomotive is rated at 85.6mpg, meaning its theoretical tank range is a shade over 940 miles. Power comes from a 110hp version of the 1.6-litre TDI diesel engine already established in the Leon range, which in the non-Ecomotive car develops 105hp.
Changes over the standard Leon for the Ecomotive (across all variants) include a specially adapted six-speed manual transmission, the fitment of low rolling resistance tyres and optimised aerodynamics, comprising lowered suspension, closed-off cooling apertures at the front, additional under-body panels, a roof spoiler and rear screen side spoilers.
Anything else?
SEAT is using the arrival of the ST to show off a raft of new high-tech options, including ACC Adaptive Cruise Control with proximity radar and DCC Adaptive Chassis Control with variable damper adjustment. In addition there's progressive steering as an option. All of these new options debut with the ST but will be available on all Leon models.