More significant, though, it moves the MQB game forward by being the first in this new family of vehicles to come from the get-go with electrified powertrains. They are likely to become available with the Golf, but Seat got there first.
As well as conventional petrol and diesel powertrains, you can have your new Leon in either mild hybrid (called eTSI) or plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) forms. The difference between them? The eTSI uses a 48-volt starter-generator to enhance efficiency, not actually drive the car.
The plug-in eHybrid in contrast comes with more lithium battery power and a direct-drive electric motor to enable an emissions-free electric range of up to 38 miles. Seat says a zero to full charge takes three and a half hours. The electric side is mated to a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with 201bhp driving through a six-speed DSG transmission, so you get a normal petrol car’s range as well.