SEAT

SEAT

SEAT Toledo (2005-2009)

Richard Dredge ·

When SEAT unveiled its third-generation Toledo in 2005, it looked pretty unconventional. It was a car that not many people understood; what was the point of this large family hatch, which cost more than an Altea XL, but which didn’t offer much extra? Thanks to the higher price and awkward looks, the Toledo struggled to sell, but on the used market this Golf-based hatch makes more sense thanks to keen prices and more carrying capacity than its Leon or Altea siblings. While the Toledo doesn’t do anything better than an Altea XL, it’s more unusual, comes with some strong engines, plenty of equipment (avoid entry-level Reference trim) and it’s refined too. The Toledo is no class-leader, but if you’re looking for a spacious family hatch, this sizeable Seat is a great-value left-field buy.

 

Key dates

3/05: The second-generation Toledo reaches UK showrooms 2005 with 1.6 or 2.0 FSi petrol engines, along with 1.9 TDi or 2.0 TDi diesels. The smaller powerplants come in Reference or Stylance trims, the 2.0-litre units got their own Sport trim.

5/06: The 2.0 TDI is now offered in Stylance form. 

8/07: From this point on the 1.9 TDi Stylance and 2.0 TDi Sport come with a DSG dual-clutch transmission only.

1/08: The CO2 rating of the 1.9 TDi DSG goes up from 145g/km to 162g/km, increasing road tax costs.

 

Checklist

  • The ABS control unit can fail, and repair costs are high. Check the dash light illuminates with the ignition on, then goes out.
  • Rear-three-quarter visibility is poor and judging the car’s extremities is tricky, so parking sensors are a must.
  • Most Toledos are owned by families, so check the interior trim hasn’t been wrecked by young children.
  • The electrics can be temperamental, so check things like the central locking, alarm, all lights – and tyre pressure sensors, if fitted.
  • The oil pump of the 2.0 TDi engine can fail, destroying the engine and turbocharger.
  • Dual-mass flywheels can fail, so listen for rattling that’s louder with the clutch depressed.
  • The six-speed manual gearbox can suffer from faulty synchro rings, so make sure the gearchange from first to second isn’t stiff.

 

We like

  • Space
  • Practicality
  • Value
  • Refinement
  • Strong engines

 

We don’t like

  • Few to choose from
  • Awkward design

SEAT

SEAT Leon (2005-2013)

·

When the SEAT Leon Mk2 arrived it instantly made all of its rivals look rather staid. With its swoopy lines the Leon cut a dash like no other small family hatch, and while time has reduced the visual impact of SEAT’s mid-range car, the Leon still looks distinctive. Based on the contemporary VW Golf, the Leon doesn’t offer the same array of bodystyles and the interior isn’t as plush, but you can pick one up for significantly less cash. Plus, with a huge choice of engines to choose from, there’s a Leon for you whether you want economy or tyre-scorching performance.

Key dates

8/05: The Leon Mk2 arrives, with 1.6, 2.0 FSI, 1.9 TDI or 2.0 TDI engines.

10/05: A 182bhp 2.0 TFSI Sport edition appears.

6/06: 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI Leon FRs are now available, with 168bhp and 198bhp respectively.

11/06: The 237bhp 2.0 TFSi Cupra arrives.

3/08: A 123bhp 1.4 TSI engine joins the range.

7/08: The ultra-frugal 1.9 TDI Ecomotive goes on sale. Rated at 119g/km initially, in summer 2010 this is cut to 99g/km.

7/09: A facelift brings styling tweaks, a new trim hierarchy and a bigger rear window for improved visibility.

11/10: A 2.0 TDI common rail diesel engine appears, in 138bhp form.

Checklist

  • The rear light clusters can suffer from condensation, through failed seals.
  • Sporty Leons have firmer suspension than standard. From 2009 all Leons got an improved suspension set-up.
  • Paintwork can damage easily, with Luna Grey seemingly more prone to damage than any other colour.
  • The rear washer tube can come adrift, leading to water behind the offside boot trim panel; it’s easily fixed though.
  • The gas struts for the tailgate fail. You can buy aftermarket items from www.sgs-engineering.com  
  • The Electronic Stability Programme hardware can play up. Part of the anti-lock braking system, the fault is usually rectified by replacing the ABS pump, which is very costly.
  • The wipers can fail if the bonnet isn’t closed properly or a wire has come adrift from the bonnet lock. Closing the bonnet and attaching the wire should fix things.

We like

  • Distinctive looks
  • Engine choice
  • Value
  • Low running costs
  • Good to drive

We don’t like

  • Cramped rear seats
  • Cheap-looking cabin

 

Richard Dredge