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The Seat Leon e-Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that shares its technology with the Volkswagen Golf GTE but comes with a more aggressive price point and Spanish flair. Let’s dive into the key features to determine whether it stands out against its more famous cousin, the Golf GTE.
1. Overview
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid combines a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It's a sporty hatchback that aims to deliver both eco-conscious driving and practicality. The Leon e-Hybrid comes in several trims, offering versatility and competitive pricing compared to other PHEVs in the market.
2. Engine & Powertrain
Hybrid Powertrain:
1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
Combined output: 204 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG).
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD).
3. Electric Range & Battery
Battery Capacity: 13 kWh lithium-ion battery.
Electric-Only Range:
Up to 60 km (37 miles) on a full charge under optimal conditions.
Cold Weather Range: Reduced to around 35-45 km (22-28 miles) in colder temperatures due to battery performance loss.
Hot Weather Range: Slight impact on range with air conditioning use, but generally the battery performs well in hot climates.
Charging Time:
Wallbox/Level 2 Charger (240V): Takes about 3-4 hours to fully charge.
Standard 120V Outlet: Can take 6-7 hours for a full charge.
4. Performance
Top Speed:
220 km/h (137 mph), slightly lower than the Golf GTE due to its focus on efficiency.
Acceleration (0-100 km/h):
7.5 seconds, which is similar to the Golf GTE but not as quick as some other hot hatchbacks in its class.
5. Fuel Efficiency
Combined Fuel Economy:
1.4-1.6 l/100 km (140-160 mpg) in hybrid mode with a fully charged battery.
On gasoline alone, the consumption is closer to 5.5-6.5 l/100 km (35-42 mpg) when the battery is depleted.
6. Dimensions
Length: 4,368 mm (171.9 inches).
Width: 1,800 mm (70.9 inches).
Height: 1,456 mm (57.3 inches).
Wheelbase: 2,686 mm (105.7 inches), providing decent legroom for rear passengers.
Curb Weight: Approximately 1,585 kg (3,494 lbs), which is slightly heavier than the standard Leon due to the added battery.
7. Trunk Space
Trunk Capacity:
270 liters (9.5 cubic feet), which is significantly smaller than the non-hybrid Leon’s 380 liters due to the space taken up by the battery.
Rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, but the battery placement limits overall capacity.
8. Seating and Interior
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers.
Seat Materials: Standard cloth seats with options for upgraded leatherette upholstery in higher trims.
Front Seats: Heated and manually adjustable in the base model, with electric adjustment options in higher trims.
Rear Seats: Decent legroom for a hatchback, but the sloping roofline can make it feel tight for taller passengers.
Interior Quality: While not as premium as the Golf GTE, the Leon features high-quality materials with a sportier, youthful design.
9. Warranty
Seat Warranty:
3 years/60,000 miles (96,000 km) bumper-to-bumper.
Battery Warranty: 8 years/100,000 miles (160,000 km) covering the hybrid components.
10. Pricing
Base Price (as of 2021):
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid starts at around €35,000 - €40,000 (roughly $38,000 - $43,000 USD) depending on the market and trim level. This makes it more affordable than the Golf GTE.
Higher Trims: The fully-loaded versions can go up to around €45,000, with additional features like larger wheels, advanced infotainment, and driver-assistance systems.
1. Manufacturing
Made in: The Seat Leon e-Hybrid is produced in Martorell, Spain, which is Seat’s main production facility.
12. Tire Sizes
Standard Tire Size:
205/55 R16 (front and rear).
Optional Tire Sizes: Available with larger 17-inch or 18-inch wheels in higher trims for enhanced performance and styling.
13. Technology & Features
Infotainment System:
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen with Seat’s latest infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Driver Assistance: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and park assist are available.
Digital Cockpit: Fully customizable digital driver display for essential driving information.
Dual-Zone Climate Control: Available as standard in mid-range trims and above.
14. Cold & Hot Weather Performance
Cold Weather: Battery range diminishes in cold weather, but the car offers features like heated seats and steering wheel to maintain cabin comfort.
Hot Weather: The air conditioning system is efficient, though extensive use can slightly reduce the electric range. Battery cooling ensures longevity in hotter climates.
Is the Seat Leon e-Hybrid Better than the Golf GTE?
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid is a fantastic alternative to the Volkswagen Golf GTE, especially for those seeking a lower price point and a sportier design. Both cars share the same platform and powertrain, so performance is comparable. However, the Leon’s interior isn’t as premium as the Golf’s, and the trunk space is limited due to the hybrid system.
Advantages Over the Golf GTE:
Affordability: The Leon is generally cheaper than the Golf GTE, making it more accessible.
Styling: The Seat Leon has a more youthful and sporty design, which might appeal more to style-conscious buyers.
Disadvantages:
Interior Quality: The Golf GTE offers a more refined and premium interior.
Brand Appeal: Volkswagen's reputation and brand image tend to carry more weight, especially in terms of perceived luxury and prestige.
Conclusion
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid offers excellent value for money, with a competitive electric range, modern technology, and decent performance. While it might lack the brand appeal and interior refinement of the Golf GTE, it compensates with a lower price and a more dynamic design. For those looking for a practical and sporty plug-in hybrid that won’t break the bank, the Leon e-Hybrid is definitely worth considering.
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1. Overview
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid combines a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It's a sporty hatchback that aims to deliver both eco-conscious driving and practicality. The Leon e-Hybrid comes in several trims, offering versatility and competitive pricing compared to other PHEVs in the market.
2. Engine & Powertrain
Hybrid Powertrain:
1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
Combined output: 204 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG).
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD).
3. Electric Range & Battery
Battery Capacity: 13 kWh lithium-ion battery.
Electric-Only Range:
Up to 60 km (37 miles) on a full charge under optimal conditions.
Cold Weather Range: Reduced to around 35-45 km (22-28 miles) in colder temperatures due to battery performance loss.
Hot Weather Range: Slight impact on range with air conditioning use, but generally the battery performs well in hot climates.
Charging Time:
Wallbox/Level 2 Charger (240V): Takes about 3-4 hours to fully charge.
Standard 120V Outlet: Can take 6-7 hours for a full charge.
4. Performance
Top Speed:
220 km/h (137 mph), slightly lower than the Golf GTE due to its focus on efficiency.
Acceleration (0-100 km/h):
7.5 seconds, which is similar to the Golf GTE but not as quick as some other hot hatchbacks in its class.
5. Fuel Efficiency
Combined Fuel Economy:
1.4-1.6 l/100 km (140-160 mpg) in hybrid mode with a fully charged battery.
On gasoline alone, the consumption is closer to 5.5-6.5 l/100 km (35-42 mpg) when the battery is depleted.
6. Dimensions
Length: 4,368 mm (171.9 inches).
Width: 1,800 mm (70.9 inches).
Height: 1,456 mm (57.3 inches).
Wheelbase: 2,686 mm (105.7 inches), providing decent legroom for rear passengers.
Curb Weight: Approximately 1,585 kg (3,494 lbs), which is slightly heavier than the standard Leon due to the added battery.
7. Trunk Space
Trunk Capacity:
270 liters (9.5 cubic feet), which is significantly smaller than the non-hybrid Leon’s 380 liters due to the space taken up by the battery.
Rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, but the battery placement limits overall capacity.
8. Seating and Interior
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers.
Seat Materials: Standard cloth seats with options for upgraded leatherette upholstery in higher trims.
Front Seats: Heated and manually adjustable in the base model, with electric adjustment options in higher trims.
Rear Seats: Decent legroom for a hatchback, but the sloping roofline can make it feel tight for taller passengers.
Interior Quality: While not as premium as the Golf GTE, the Leon features high-quality materials with a sportier, youthful design.
9. Warranty
Seat Warranty:
3 years/60,000 miles (96,000 km) bumper-to-bumper.
Battery Warranty: 8 years/100,000 miles (160,000 km) covering the hybrid components.
10. Pricing
Base Price (as of 2021):
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid starts at around €35,000 - €40,000 (roughly $38,000 - $43,000 USD) depending on the market and trim level. This makes it more affordable than the Golf GTE.
Higher Trims: The fully-loaded versions can go up to around €45,000, with additional features like larger wheels, advanced infotainment, and driver-assistance systems.
1. Manufacturing
Made in: The Seat Leon e-Hybrid is produced in Martorell, Spain, which is Seat’s main production facility.
12. Tire Sizes
Standard Tire Size:
205/55 R16 (front and rear).
Optional Tire Sizes: Available with larger 17-inch or 18-inch wheels in higher trims for enhanced performance and styling.
13. Technology & Features
Infotainment System:
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen with Seat’s latest infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Driver Assistance: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and park assist are available.
Digital Cockpit: Fully customizable digital driver display for essential driving information.
Dual-Zone Climate Control: Available as standard in mid-range trims and above.
14. Cold & Hot Weather Performance
Cold Weather: Battery range diminishes in cold weather, but the car offers features like heated seats and steering wheel to maintain cabin comfort.
Hot Weather: The air conditioning system is efficient, though extensive use can slightly reduce the electric range. Battery cooling ensures longevity in hotter climates.
Is the Seat Leon e-Hybrid Better than the Golf GTE?
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid is a fantastic alternative to the Volkswagen Golf GTE, especially for those seeking a lower price point and a sportier design. Both cars share the same platform and powertrain, so performance is comparable. However, the Leon’s interior isn’t as premium as the Golf’s, and the trunk space is limited due to the hybrid system.
Advantages Over the Golf GTE:
Affordability: The Leon is generally cheaper than the Golf GTE, making it more accessible.
Styling: The Seat Leon has a more youthful and sporty design, which might appeal more to style-conscious buyers.
Disadvantages:
Interior Quality: The Golf GTE offers a more refined and premium interior.
Brand Appeal: Volkswagen's reputation and brand image tend to carry more weight, especially in terms of perceived luxury and prestige.
Conclusion
The Seat Leon e-Hybrid offers excellent value for money, with a competitive electric range, modern technology, and decent performance. While it might lack the brand appeal and interior refinement of the Golf GTE, it compensates with a lower price and a more dynamic design. For those looking for a practical and sporty plug-in hybrid that won’t break the bank, the Leon e-Hybrid is definitely worth considering.
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