Underpinned by Volkswagen's modular MQB platform, the Leon borrows styling cues such as its headlights and its trapezoidal grille from the recently-redesigned Ibiza hatchback. The Leon's body is sculpted and angular, giving it a silhouette that is much more aggressive than that of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and the Citroën C4, its main competitors in Europe.
On the inside the Leon wears a driver-oriented and ergonomic design, an unmistakable indication of the Teutonic influence that went into the Spanish hatchback's development.
The next-gen Leon is available with a panoply of Volkswagen-sourced turbocharged TDI and TSI engines. The entry-level offering is a 1.2-liter gasoline unit that makes 85 horsepower and the range topper is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel that is rated at 181 horsepower.
Regardless of what lies under the hood power is sent to the front wheels only. Two manuals and two dual-clutch gearboxes are offered.
After making its public debut at the Paris Motor Show the Leon will go on sale across Europe, in Mexico and in China in early 2013. Pricing information will be released in the weeks prior to its official unveiling.
