View Full Version : Picked up New Leon....
LeakyTurnip
07-10-2005, 22:52
Well after a few weeks wait I picked up the new car. :funk: First thing that struck me was the colour, it wasn't quite what i expected but in a good way! I first seen it on a boggo spec car with wheeltrims and loads of writing up the side and it looked s :censored: te! With the alloys and rear tinted windows it makes all the difference. Oh its Zenith Grey by the way.
First impressions are great, i really can't find a flaw in my little car....okay its only the 1.6 but it seems capable enough! The quality inside is really quite good. My sister has a 2002 Leon and I much prefer the inside of mine, it feels much more open and airy with loads of room, both in the front and the back. I don't know what all the complaints are about the dash, its all soft and squishy. Hmmm soft.
My GF's parents Passat is similar on space in the back, and it was them who said that not me!
After the quality 'Alana' (my sides are hurting) HU in my Ibiza I was more than surpised by the HU in the Leon it sound great with no rattle from the doors at all!
One of the best bits thought is the interior by night. I was a fan of the old read dials on red needles, but they were a bit tricky to see at times. The new white dials and red needles look sooooooooooooo much better.
ah well, thats me for now i'll try to get some better pics taken but here's one for a little taster...
Looking good!
It would be great to see some more pics from different angles of the car though.
Are you the first person on here to get a new Leon?
LeakyTurnip
07-10-2005, 23:24
Don't know if I am the first...
I've uploaded a few shots to that photobucket thing, their not great, hopfully I'll get a chance to take some decent shots over the weekend...
New Leon Photos (http://photobucket.com/albums/a308/leakyturnip/)
Enjoy...
Starbank
08-10-2005, 09:31
Well done that man!
I think you are the first who post to officially own one the new Leons!
I agree with you on the interior - I have posted elsewhere saying the same thing. the main part of the dash is soft touch plastic.
How long did you wait for the new car from ordering?
I can't wait to get mine.
LeakyTurnip
08-10-2005, 09:38
I originally went into the dealer during the last week of august. They had already ordered a few cars and two of them were Zenith grey, so it was a case of being there at the right time!
I managed to get the one that had the parking sensors fitted, and they didn't charge me for it...which was nice! :)
Starbank
08-10-2005, 09:58
Just reading on another thread that the stereo is utter pants!
How have you found it???
LeakyTurnip
08-10-2005, 10:09
I seen that one myself. I think it's great. Before I got rid of my Ibiza I had a Clarion HU in it and I can say there is not a great deal of difference.
There is a nice big screen, buttons are not too small, the steering wheel controls are handy too and it even reads CD Text!
The speakers seem to be of better quality than I had in the ibiza so that might make for a little difference.
I do see his point about changing it for a difference HU. It would look pants, even if you could get some sort of facia adaptor.
paradyne
08-10-2005, 13:25
Glad your car has arrived and you're happy with it!
I have seen one new leon on the road so far, a red one, but I imagine you are amongst the first of the private owners.
Are the parking sensors switchable, or always on in reverse?
I'm waiting for 2.0 TDI Sport from the factory... feels like the longest wait of my life ;-)
Hi,
I’m also waiting for my 2.0 TDI sport to come. Have not got a delivery date yet, Seat say they are waiting for the build week from the factory then they can work out when the car will be here. They reckon the end of November.
Have you had your delivery date confirmed yet paradyne?
cool, I look forward to seeing one in the flesh
LeakyTurnip
08-10-2005, 16:27
The parking sensors are switched on when the car is put in reverse, but they don't start beeping until you are about two feet away from the thing you are reversing towards....
They could do with a set on the front though, the car is a little pointy!
paradyne
08-10-2005, 18:20
@Turnip thanks for that info, I didnt go for the parking sensors on the basis I've never hit anything whilst parking before (yeah famous last words..)
@s22jcd I've had no date or anything yet.
What extras did u ask 4 paradyne on your 2.0 sport?
Iv got heated seats, bluetooth, mats, chromed mirrors, door trip kit. so looking forward to it coming now.
paradyne
08-10-2005, 23:16
I went for MP3 option, Xenon's, metallic paint and dimming mirror/rain pack. At the time I ordered there were no cars in stock in uk with the xenons so it became a factory order.
LeakyTurnip
09-10-2005, 20:47
As promised some new photos of the new motor...
http://photobucket.com/albums/a308/leakyturnip/?start=all
paradyne
10-10-2005, 11:15
I didn't notice if you mentioned which model you have, though I'm guessing Stylance based on the wheels?! Looks great in the Zenith Grey.
Keep us posted on your experience and thoughts with the car, I'd be interested in your longer term view in the countdown to mine arriving.
I can't believe how many forum postings there have been with negative or mixed feelings about the car. The shape is drastically different than the old Leon for sure, but it looks fresh and modern. The old Leon looks dated to me now, even though its a classic, especially in Cupra form. I suspect the naysayers haven't driven or sat in the new one.
Theres a lot of criticism about the front pillars - I think they are just a sign of the times with regard to making the higher safety ratings. Sure didnt bother me when I test drove the car.
Still, each to their own I guess.
Starbank
10-10-2005, 11:29
I agree - keep us posted bud.
As far as dates - the only word I've had from the dealer is that they had received confirmation from Spain that the car order had been accepted and it was on the list for production.
The Dealer did warn me though that updated production info from Spain is sketchy and they never really know anything regards progress until they get the call confirming it's on the boat!
I'm bugging the dealer on a weekly basis though!
I still can't see the attraction of this Ford Ka look'a'like
http://home.woh.rr.com/trezuraat/smilies/vomit.gif
paradyne
10-10-2005, 14:30
@ChrisUK - Dude, you need an eye test and shouldn't even be driving if you think a Leon looks like a KA :-P
Starbank
18-10-2005, 11:56
Leaky Turnip - how are you getting on with your new motor??
Any niggles, rattles or bangs yet?
LeakyTurnip
18-10-2005, 17:32
Funny you should ask, I was coming home and I was thinking I'd better let the folks on seatcupra.net know how my motoring is going.
Thankfully it's all good! The more I drive the car the more I like it ;) . No rattles, squeaks, or bangs thankfully; just the surprisingly sporty exhaust note coming from the back! The only problem is the boot release button on the key seems a little temperamental, but thats and easy fix.
My sister has a 2002 Leon TDI and I had to drive it home from Belfast last night, and as i was stuck in traffic for most of the journey (it was 5pm) I got a good chance to have a prod and poke! I really can't justify a lot of the comments about the plastic on the door and facia of the new leon, from sitting in my sisters motor from what i can see the door has more hard plastic than new new leon and the old leon has smaller door bins.
The top part of the old leon's dash is nice and squigy but the center console is a mass of black plastic, I much prefer the new leon's silvery plastic and it's got a decent amount of squigy stuff! The new interior is fresh and modern and feels very airy, the old cabin is more cosy and dare I say it, a little dated... :whistle:
There's no point in comparing the engines as mine is the 1.6 petrol and her's is the 1.9 TDI, which I might add is a fantastic engine! But with all that stop / start traffic the clutch seemed mighty heavy.
I really liked the old leon, I still think it looks great but I really think that the new one had just moved up a gear in every direction. Once you spend some time with the car you get to appreciate it solidity and I'm sure when ever the new Cupra is released a lot of people will change their opinions... (no offence to the many leon owners on this forum)
Another thing that has impressed me have been the amount of accessories SEAT have released for the car, I'll have to get my letter to santa off early this year!
The only down side it having to show people how to get in the back! :redface:
Any developments over the coming weeks and I'll let you know.
Have you ordered any extras for your car yet?
I have not seen many extras available in the UK yet, I did see the Spanish extras book on here and as you said their are loads available.
Still waiting for my delivery date, about 4 to 5 weeks the dealer thinks.
Nice! [B)]
You need to paint the calipers red though... :funk:
LeakyTurnip
18-10-2005, 20:44
I haven't ordered any accessories yet, but I'd be very interested in the inner and outer sill guards, chrome tailgate strip, armrest and a few other bits that I can't quite remember!!
I feel sorry for you having to wait, I thought it was bad having to wait for about 4/5 weeks!! It'll be worth it at the end!
Have you got uk prices on them extras yet?
I've been knocking about in the 2.0 TDI Sport today, leaps ahead in terms of qualilty and feel, the seats are better, steering very light at low speed not so sure of. The engine is a bit crap too, having only done 1800 miles, but can't get much more than 40mpg out of it, though it revs ok to red line, and goes reasonably well. Seem to rememebr my 1.9 doing no less than 45mpg even when running reasonably hard. Avg mpg so far overall is 38. Very nice car, as long as the Wifes' bora, but the boot is massive.
I think the 2.0 tdi will be underpowered, unless chipped, but the 170 TDI should be nice when it arrives, through for similar money think I'd get a focus ST, which looks a bit of a bargain.
Starbank
19-10-2005, 09:27
Great to hear your enjoying the new car Leaky Turnip!
Must admit the wait for mine is beginning to get unbearable now - first week in December was estimated - I only hope it's sooner!
saintjames
19-10-2005, 10:38
Are the alloys on the Ref Sport 2.0 standard or can you choose them?
Starbank
19-10-2005, 11:03
The 16's are standard on the Ref Sport.
However, if you want different ones then I'm sure you can have a quiet word with the dealer - it'll cost you though.
Wouldn't be surprised if you have to pay the full whack for bigger wheels and tyres - i.e don't think they would deduct the cost of the standard wheels and tyres from the cost of the new car if you did want to change the spec on ordering.
Donny Boy
19-10-2005, 21:34
Hello. Just registered here as was very interested in this thread.
I'm looking at getting a 1.9TDI Stylance and was going for black. Got told no Black ones, 12 week wait :(
BUT I could have a Zenith Grey in days as the dealer has one "at port"!
So I found your thread and pics and i think the car looks nice in this colour.
Off to see dealer Saturday as he has a 1.6 Stylance in Zenith Grey, then driving a 1.9TDI Altera as he doesn't have a 1.9TDI Leon but will give me idea of engine. Then drive Leon as well. Make decision.
Company car and I said I can't go above £14,000 as pushed company from £13k to £14k, so he said he would do me the 1.9TDI for £13,750. Lovely!
Anyway, sounds a good car and you have helped me decide that if I like it Saturday I'll have it.
Heard the stereo is a bit poor thought. Do you find this?
Don
Starbank
20-10-2005, 08:57
Welcome Donny Boy!
Don't think you will be disappointed in the Leon's driving qualities. The radio has had a few criticisms however our friend Leaky Turnip has found it to be just fine.
Suppose it's got a lot to do with what you are used to - I'm slightly concerned as the 'Gamma' Radio in the Lupo Gti I currently have is good quality and the sound is excellent.
Still, most people who have driven the Leon have commented on how surprised they have been about the rorty, sporty noise coming from the exhaust so maybe no need to switch the radio on - heh, heh!
Good luck.
Donny Boy
20-10-2005, 09:35
Hello Starbank :)
When I had a sit in a Stylance I turned the stereo on and thought it was fine.
Maybe the people who don't like it have listened to the 6 speaker version in lower models. Stylance has 8 speakers :)
LeakyTurnip
20-10-2005, 09:55
Although black is a very nice colour, is will also be. by far the most common. At least the Zenith Grey will be a little more unique and a little easier to keep clean!
The dealer that I got my car from only had car's that were TDI's and i have to try and 1.6 Altea...strange that your dealer is the opposite!
Good luck, whatever colour you go for!
Starbank
20-10-2005, 11:05
Been on the Altea board to see if there's much about the radio sound quality.
It appears it's mostly down to the poor mid range/base speakers and tweeter positioning as the headunit is actually pretty impressive.
Loads on there about changing speakers etc so worth a look if you are interested.
Donny Boy
20-10-2005, 12:22
Although black is a very nice colour, is will also be. by far the most common. At least the Zenith Grey will be a little more unique and a little easier to keep clean!
The dealer that I got my car from only had car's that were TDI's and i have to try and 1.6 Altea...strange that your dealer is the opposite!
Good luck, whatever colour you go for!
I had the same thoughts about the colour.
Every dealer near me has no 1.9TDI's, either 1.6 or the 2.0 TDI sport. One dealer had a 1.9TDI Stylance Black in stock 2 weeks ago. But sold it before I could be sure I could have it :( Wouldn't let me drive it as said not a demo, but when I spoke to a different chap the other day he said that was wrong, I coulda drived it...
If a Zenith Grey one means I can have the car on 1st Nov think I'll go for it. It looks a good colour. I have shown your pics to a few people and they all think it looks good :)
Thanks again.
LeakyTurnip
20-10-2005, 17:23
I reckon you should just go for the Zenith Grey. 12 weeks is an awful long time to wait, just for a colour! I would be different if you were adding lots of extras that you really wanted.
From driving the 1.9TDI it's a super engine. A little noisy when driving slow but once you over 30 it's not noticeable.
Just think you could have your new car in 2 weeks....
But hey! What do I know??
Yannerson
20-10-2005, 17:41
Speaking to my local dealer last weekend and he said that he could get 2.0 Tdi Sports in quite a few colours and short notice if you didn't want a weird spec.
After looking at the standard equipment I plumped for no extra's at all other than Black paint which, IMHO and common or not, is the best colour for the car. I getting delivery on Saturday only 7 days after placing the order. He could get several Zenith Gray's and Silver something's all with vary specs from bog standard to loaded to the hilt.
Iwan
PS
I'm going to bung an initial review on my hello thread in a few weeks but I couldn't lurk any longer after reading this one :happy:
I really want to like this car, but it looks too MPV like for me but hey, each to their own! I bet the top line 3 door will look cool.
I really hope you enjoy the car all the same mate.
Have the same feelings as Djhorace.
Just a little too Mpv'ish. But, i bet in 6 months i'll like it! - I do hope everyone enjoys theirs though!
You shouldn't have bought it though mate. Ideally you should have bidded for an Austin Allegro from Ebay, far better value, and i've heard the stereo in there is the nuts.
LeakyTurnip
20-10-2005, 22:59
Ideally you should have bidded for an Austin Allegro from Ebay
And if you're lucky you'll get a cool square steering wheel... ;)
Starbank
21-10-2005, 09:01
When I ordered mine the dealer told me that what ever the specification, if you choose options, there will be a minimum 12 week wait - hence my current torture!
The colour issue is an important one though - most people will be making their second biggest purchase (after property) when buying cars so choosing your favourite colour is as big a deal as choosing the engine size.
The 12 week wait as a result is a pain but I know it will be worth it when I pick the car up.
However, if I was to choose another colour for the Leon, the zenith grey, red or even the dark metallic blue would be on my list.
I got the invitation pack from Seat UK, it looks gorgeous, I have to have one. BUT - should I wait until the Cupra (or FR) is out ? The spec of the 2.0 TFSI Sport is comparable to my (pre-revo'ed) Cupra Mk1 out of the box. What performance benefit would the Cupra have over the Sport ? I was pleasantly surprised at the styling of it, and cannot see how much more 'sporty' they can make it. Very aggresive styling. I like. Good prices too.
Donny Boy
21-10-2005, 14:15
Speaking to my local dealer last weekend and he said that he could get 2.0 Tdi Sports in quite a few colours and short notice if you didn't want a weird spec.
After looking at the standard equipment I plumped for no extra's at all other than Black paint which, IMHO and common or not, is the best colour for the car. I getting delivery on Saturday only 7 days after placing the order. He could get several Zenith Gray's and Silver something's all with vary specs from bog standard to loaded to the hilt.
Iwan
I heard that from one dealer too, whatever you want quick as you want. Some dealers though are stating none about. :shrug:
Anyways, I'll let you know how I get on and if I order one :)
Starbank
21-10-2005, 14:41
I got the invitation pack from Seat UK, it looks gorgeous, I have to have one. BUT - should I wait until the Cupra (or FR) is out ? The spec of the 2.0 TFSI Sport is comparable to my (pre-revo'ed) Cupra Mk1 out of the box. What performance benefit would the Cupra have over the Sport ? I was pleasantly surprised at the styling of it, and cannot see how much more 'sporty' they can make it. Very aggresive styling. I like. Good prices too.
Excellent another potential buyer!
From what we have been hearing the Cupra could have 240BHP - not sure whether that will be from the 2.0TFSi engine? Who know's they may ask VW nicely and borrow the V6! I believe the FR will be 225 BHP.
It's quite a hike in power from the 185 BHP Sport - but it will obviously mean a hike in price, insurance group and servicing costs - so depends whether you can wait and you have the Johnny Cash , probably talking £20-22k when it's released.
I think for £17,000 the Sport is a gem - I just couldn't stretch that far particularly when I added on the optional extras I wanted!
Excellent another potential buyer!
From what we have been hearing the Cupra could have 240BHP - not sure whether that will be from the 2.0TFSi engine? Who know's they may ask VW nicely and borrow the V6! I believe the FR will be 225 BHP.
It's quite a hike in power from the 185 BHP Sport - but it will obviously mean a hike in price, insurance group and servicing costs - so depends whether you can wait and you have the Johnny Cash , probably talking £20-22k when it's released.
I think for £17,000 the Sport is a gem - I just couldn't stretch that far particularly when I added on the optional extras I wanted!
i would not be surprised if the sport is dropped when the fr`s and cuprs`s are released 22k seat not a chance id buy the audi for that lol
Donny Boy
29-10-2005, 16:07
Had a test drive last week and I ordered a Leon in Zenith Grey, 1.9 TDi Stylance. get it Friday 4th November.
Woo hoo. roll on Friday! :)
vwsurfbum
29-10-2005, 16:09
Had a test drive last week and I ordered a Leon in Zenith Grey, 1.9 TDi Stylance. get it Friday 4th November.
Woo hoo. roll on Friday! :)
good choice!
Starbank
31-10-2005, 09:09
Well done matey!
4th November - that's a 2 week delivery!
Getting utterly fed up with waiting for mine now!
Donny Boy
31-10-2005, 09:27
Well done matey!
4th November - that's a 2 week delivery!
Getting utterly fed up with waiting for mine now!
Could have it 1st Nov, but I can't get to dealer until Friday. He had the model I wanted at "port" so could get in quick for me. I had no extra options other than paint.
Roll on Friday!