Mk2 Leon's ...what's what? Help please

[spritchard]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to get a help on the MK2 leons and the different models.

I currently drive Toyota corolla t sport which has been great but its starting to look aged and I've decided I'll be looking for a new car around January.

I picked a Seat over anything else firstly because of reliability I've only heard good things, secondly 3dr look but 5dr practicality and finally the Leon's look sporty which is important!

So the main reason I'm here is to get info on the engines, I was firstly intrested in the 2.0TFSI engine also used in golf gti's. But im abit put off by the 35mpg as I'm lucky to get that these day's in Toyota.

So now I'm thinking about the 2.0tdi is the only difference in engines between an standard engine and fr a map? Are they reliable?

I've seen maps from £200-£500 and I've seen plug in and play devices for £500 are these worth it?

So overall I'm wondering Is it worth spending less on a 140bhp 2.0tdi reference model and mapping it or buy an FR and do it properly!

If you have any other advice or buying tips it ..what to look out for ..would be greatly appreciated

Thanks Sam

 

[Minty9]

I've had the 140bhp FR and now I have the 170bhp FR. Both brilliant cars and great mpg. The difference in power is only slightly noticeable in my opinion. As for the remap/tuning box. 99% of people on here will recommend a remap...there is just 1 lunatic that is determined to get a tuning box and try to prove everyone wrong.

 

[spritchard]

Minty9 cheers for the reply,

Haha lunatic? Do I need to watch out for this person?

Differences between a reference & FR apart from alloys and body kit are there any suspension or handling differences?

 

[Minty9]

Yeh he was supposed to be getting his cr FR fitted with a tuning box put on a dyno so we could see the results but so far....he's not uploaded anything.
You can buy a 140bhp FR that looks exactly the same as the 170bhp. FR's have lower sports suspension as stock so it's a firmer ride with better handling that a standard leon.

 

[spritchard]

I see, well hopefully posts something. Be good to see the results!

The 140 fr are 2012 onwards I believe?

Im looking at 05-07 models I think. Depending on the market later this year.

Anything I should look out for when buying??

 

[Minty9]

The results are irrelevant in my opinion. Tuning boxes are nowhere near as good as a remap. All they do is lie to your ecu.

Ah I see, couldn't tell you to be honest mate as both my FR's have been 11 plates

 

[mike0105]

I see, well hopefully posts something. Be good to see the results!

The 140 fr are 2012 onwards I believe?

Im looking at 05-07 models I think. Depending on the market later this year.

Anything I should look out for when buying??

Those are the pre-facelift models and have a very firm ride, I know because I have one!

For the TFSI, 35mpg is very optimistic unless on a long drive, but it more than makes up for it with the performance. If you are still not convinced and need more mpg, then consider TDIs. On the pre facelift cars, The FR170 is PD (Pumpe Duse) engine and delivers its torque in a big dollop, rather than a smooth and linear build up. Some say this makes it feel faster. Either should see 50mpg, but if driving spiritedly expect low to mid 40's

Tuning wise I beleive that a 140 will see 180-195 on a stage 1 and an FR170 will see 210ish. The 170 does have a DPF that is now illegal to remove. You could get away with it, but your car would not be road legal.

 

[spritchard]

I see didn't realise there was a facelift version. Firm ride?? Too firm?

Yeah the Mpg would be great I do a lot of miles but definitely need some powwwwer occasionally!

Cool thank you. The DPF does that restrict power?,

Thanks

 

[mike0105]

Facelift was introduced in late 2009, new engines all round except in the Cupra. Some will say the ride was too firm and make out it is terrible. It isn't, but the facelift supposedly improves this. Try it out on a bumpy road and decide for yourself. It is much better for the driver than the passenger though....

The DPF collects the soot like a sponge and burns it off. It can hold you back if you are tuning and many have removed. They caused a lot of problems in cars where they were not regularly taken on longer drives. Have a search for DPF troubles and figure out if it would affect you.

Just be warned, if you do remove it, your car will be uninsured as it would not be deemed road worthy. Even if it passes an MOT because it is only a visual test....

 

[PWB2012]

I've had a PD FR170 (57) plate, now got the facelift one. The PD had been remapped, noticeable difference to my current on so ill be getting it done at some point. Only problem with the PD versions is they have a few faults on the engine but still cracking motors!

 

[spritchard]

Cheers for the response guy's.

I've read up about the DPF with the journeys I do it shouldn't be a problem.

What are the issues with the PD engines?

 

[PWB2012]

Don't now all of them, but theirs the big one, Injectors! Fortunately Seat did a big recall to replace them so make sure it's been done if you're looking at the PD version. Also the RPM sensor went on mine causing it to die while driving along. Probably pay to do some research on here before buying.

 

[spritchard]

I see. Did the same issue effect alot of diesel passats? 2006s. mostly automatics if I remember correctly