Seat Leon Ecomotive goes on sale

The most efficient version of the Seat Leon ever produced has gone on sale, priced from £19,360.

Launched at the Frankfurt motor show last September, the Leon Ecomotive is available in three-door SC, five-door and estate ST body styles, and is powered by a 1.6-litre TDI diesel engine producing 108bhp and emits only 87g/km of CO2. By comparison, the standard Leon 1.6 TDI emits 99g/km CO2 and has a power output of 104bhp.

The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Seat says the low CO2 figure has been achieved by saving 90kg in weight, fitting low-resistance tyres and improving aerodynamic efficiency by 10 per cent. Those kind of figures put the Leon Ecomotive in VED tax band A.

Visual changes over the standard car include suspension which is lowered by 15mm, and a unique grille. Inside, the Leon Ecomotive is equipped with the same energy recovery and stop-start systems as the regular Leon. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights with cornering functions, cruise control, air conditioning, electric windows, Bluetooth and Seat's infotainment system. 

Customers ordering the new model before the end of the year also receive a free Technology Pack upgrade, which adds LED headlights, satellite navigation and a DAB radio. First deliveries are due to start in January next year. 

Prices start at £19,360 for the SC, £19,660 for the five-door model and £20,485 for the ST estate.