The Leon X-Perience? Is it a theme park ride?
Afraid not. It's a grammatically-challenged, mildly beefed-up version of the Leon Sports Tourer, tasked with keeping us happy until Seat unveils its first, proper SUV at next year's Geneva Motor Show.
Not a proper SUV, then?
Nope. There's 30mm of extra ground clearance over the Leon estate, some shiny black plastic wheel arch extensions, and a Haldex four-wheel drive system lifted from parent-company VW that splits power 50-50 between front and rear axles if it detects a bit of slip.
Engines?
All diesels. It's a 2.0-litre turbo four, with either 148 or 181bhp. The former is only available with a manual gearbox, while the latter is DSG-only. In fact, the only reason you'd buy the more powerful motor is for the DSG, which is as successful in the XP as it is in any other VW, Seat or Audi.
Most of the time, the 181bhp Leon doesn't feel appreciably quicker than the 148bhp effort, and the manual ‘box is satisfyingly smooth. Save money, buy the 148.
How does it handle?
Tidily. The steering is a little light for our tastes, but it's quick and precise enough. There's a mite more body roll thanks to the softer, lifted suspension, but then you're unlikely to buy an XP for its B-road-vanquishing capability.
Is there enough space inside for my many and varied things?
Oh yes. Seat says it expects most XP buyers will be "adventurous and young spirited types," mostly interested in "cycling, triathlons and outdoor sports". Definitely not empty-nesters with a passion for runs to the local tip.
Good thing, then, that the XP is no less commodious than the standard Leon ST, with many litres of boot space and a spacious passenger compartment. An eminently practical thing. But you'll still have to stick the canoe on the roof.
What could I have instead?
Good as the Leon is, the only reason you'd buy one over, say, a similarly priced, marginally bigger Skoda Octavia Scout (which has the exact same four-wheel drive system, by the way), is if you like the way it looks. Seat says the XP competes with the Volvo V40 Cross Country and Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer. And it's right. But the stiffest competition comes from within the VW Group.
Anything else?
Before you buy one, make sure the standard, front-wheel drive Leon ST absolutely will not do. The extra usability afforded by the AWD is handy, and is worth some peace of mind, but it's a heap of extra cash to levy on a feature you many only use twice a year. Even so, Seat forecast the XP will account for eight per cent of Leon ST sales. Worried about winter? Buy snow tyres. Or stay indoors.
How much does it cost?
Prices start at £24,385 for the basic, 148bhp car. In terms of trim, we'd go for what Seat reckons will be the best-seller, the SE Tech, for the added kit. That'll set you back £26,370, very nearly the same price as the entry-level version of the slightly-less-practical though slightly faster Zenos E10 roadster. Helpful consumer advice, no?
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