FLEET WORLD - The Jaguar F-Pace takes the Best SUV Award at this years ceremony.

• The Jaguar F-PACE has won yet another major award in 2017, having been crowned ‘Best SUV’ at the Fleet World Honours
• Fleet World judges praised the F-PACE for its impressive all-round abilities as an engaging drivers’ car, a genuinely practical SUV and a very accomplished fleet proposition
• The F-PACE has already picked up more than 30 global awards and is the fastest-selling Jaguar ever, with more than 50,000 sold globally since its April 2016 launch
• Recently updated F-PACE boasts an even wider range of engines, including a new 20d 163PS variant boasting CO₂ emissions as slow as 126g/km

The Jaguar F-PACE, the fastest-selling Jaguar ever, has been crowned Fleet World’s ‘Best SUV’ at the annual Fleet World Honours. 

With an aluminium-intensive construction and ultra-efficient Ingenium engines, the F-PACE was not only praised for being great to drive, but also for its low cost of ownership figures and modern technology.

Steve Moody, Fleet World Publisher, said: “The long-awaited F-PACE offers an impressive all-round package, somehow managing to be both an engaging drivers’ car and a genuinely practical SUV. 

Plentiful use of aluminium to save weight helps both agility and fuel consumption, there’s plenty of room and useful tech inside, and two and four-wheel-drive versions to suit drivers’ needs.”

The honour is the fourth major global award won by the F-PACE this year, and the 31^st since it was introduced in 2016. Already in the F-PACE’s trophy cabinet is Auto Express’ Car of the Year title and Women’s World Car of the Year for 2016.

Jon Wackett, Fleet & Business General Manager, Jaguar Land Rover UK said: “We have been working extremely hard to introduce a range of Jaguar and Land Rover models that are not only very desirable but also make good financial case for the fleet market. Our lightweight, low-emissions models, including the F-PACE, have been hugely successful among fleet and business buyers, and we’re constantly updating the range to ensure we stay ahead of our rivals.”

The 18 Model Year Jaguar F-PACE features a new 163PS four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesel Ingenium variant with emissions as low as 126g/km†. The arrival of a manual RWD derivative delivers 380Nm of torque and impressive fuel economy of up to 59.2mpg (4.8l/100km)* making it the most efficient engine in the range. These credentials earn it the E-Performance badge, which is reserved for models that combine traditional Jaguar performance with the most affordable ownership costs and optimised efficiency.

In addition, the existing 180PS four-cylinder Ingenium diesel is available with an automatic RWD transmission for the first time as part of the 2018 Model Year enhancements, delivering CO₂ emissions of 134g/km and combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg (5.1l/100km).

Full information on Jaguar F-PACE, XE and XF 18 Model year updates can be found on the Jaguar UK media site.The Jaguar F-PACE, priced from £34,730 on-the-road, is available to order now at Jaguar UK retailers.

Jaguar upgrades the XE-XF and F-Pace to make them faster and cheaper to own and run.

• Ingenium family grows with new 200PS and 250PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and 240PS diesel engines delivering improved efficiency, lower running costs and enhanced performance
• Efficient new 163PS E-Performance diesel for F-PACE delivers CO₂ emissions as low as 126g/km
• Sporty XE S gets 40PS power hike with the 380PS V6 petrol engine
• Jaguar’s Configurable Dynamics technology now available as standalone feature on XE and XF, allows drivers to personalise the gear shift, throttle and steering settings
• Intelligent safety features including Forward Traffic Detection and Forward Vehicle Guidance join extensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
• Added convenience: XF and XE saloons fitted with Gesture Boot Lid for the first time
• Virtual 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster with full-screen 3D navigation new for XE
• Dual View screen InControl technology introduced across all three vehicles.
• New Shell App allows Jaguar drivers to pay for fuel at Shell service stations using car’s touchscreen
• Updated XE, XF and F-PACE models follow record January for Jaguar in the UK, with a 20% sales increase on January 2016
• New derivatives available to order now at Jaguar UK retailers

SUMMARY

Jaguar has announced a range of enhancements to its F-PACE performance SUV and XF and XE sports saloons. The 2018 model year updates see the debut of Jaguar Land Rover’s latest Ingenium engines and new convenience and safety features available across all three vehicles to deliver more choice and personalisation than ever before.

The updates come on the back of a strong start to the year for Jaguar in the UK. More than 2,694 vehicles made their way onto UK driveways in January, an increase of 20% on January 2016, giving the brand its best January UK performance ever.

In 2016 Jaguar sold more vehicles in the UK than ever before, surpassing a 12 year old record. The popularity of the XE, XF and F-PACE were key in helping the brand to retail 34,728 vehicles in the UK last year, a 17% climb on 2015.

Jeremy Hicks, Jaguar Land Rover UK Managing Director, said: “These three models were important in driving us to a record performance in the UK in 2016. The XF sold almost 10,000 vehicles last year and the XE and F-PACE alone made up 62% of all Jaguar 2016 UK sales. These models are attracting new customers to the Jaguar brand and now with an extended offering this appeal can only grow.”

“It is all about giving our customers more choice. All three vehicles offer a wider range of engines and a suite of new technology, comfort and convenience enhancements that will make them even more relevant for UK buyers.”

ALL-NEW ENGINES

The changes broaden the appeal of all three models, with a pair of all-new four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engines introduced alongside a high-output 240PS diesel powerplant. In addition, F-PACE benefits from an efficient new E-Performance diesel derivative, which promises CO₂ emissions as low as 126g/km†.

The new 200PS (available with XE and XF) and 250PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engines use Jaguar Land Rover’s low friction all-aluminium-intensive design to provide excellent thermal properties and lightweight construction for improved efficiency and enhanced vehicle dynamics. Models with the 200PS engine wear a 20t badge while 250PS derivatives are identified by 25t badging.

The diesel range is bolstered by the introduction of the 240PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder twin turbo Ingenium diesel. This high output 500Nm engine delivers traditional Jaguar performance without compromising running costs.

The strengthened engine has uprated pistons, crankshaft and fuel injectors and is the first four-cylinder Jaguar Land Rover engine to deploy twin turbos. Their sequential configuration boosts power at high engine speeds while improving responsiveness at low engine speeds. Jaguar F-PACE, XF and XE models fitted with the new diesel engine wear the 25d badge.

Nick Rogers, Executive Director – Product Engineering, said: “We are committed to expanding the Ingenium powertrain family produced at our award-winning £1billion Engine Manufacturing Centre in Wolverhampton as we meet current and future consumer needs.”

CUTTING-EDGE PETROL TECHNOLOGY

Jaguar Land Rover’s family of Ingenium engines have the technologies to deliver exceptional performance, efficiency and refinement while meeting the most stringent global emissions regulations.

All Ingenium engines deliver benchmark low levels of friction to optimise efficiency and refinement while the new petrol units deploy twin scroll turbos to reduce lag, optimising power output and efficiency.

Continuously Variable Valve Lift technology improves air delivery to both engines. The new 200PS and 250PS powerplants feature electrohydraulic valve control for unrivalled flexibility. This patented technology provides fully variable control of the intake valve lift for optimum efficiency, power and torque across the rev range.

In addition, cleaner combustion is ensured by a new 200bar direct injection system, which features centrally mounted injectors with optimised spray patterns to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

In a first for Jaguar, the exhaust manifold is also integrated with the cylinder head casting. Passing coolant through the manifold considerably reduces warm-up times, when engines are at their least efficient, to enhance fuel consumption and reduce emissions.

CUSTOMISED DRIVING DYNAMICS

The 2018 model year XF and XE deliver greater scope for customers to personalise the driving experience thanks to Configurable Dynamics being offered as a standalone feature. The system allows drivers to set up the vehicle to suit their personal preference by choosing Normal or Dynamic settings for the engine, gearbox and steering. The chosen combination is activated by engaging ‘Dynamic’ mode using the chequered flag button on the central console.

Adaptive Dynamics, which allows drivers to tailor the suspension settings in addition to those for the engine, gearbox and steering, when combined with Configurable Dynamics, is available as before and provides the ultimate in dynamic personalisation.

GREATER COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

Extending customer choice is a hallmark of the 2018 model year enhancements for all three vehicles, alongside comfort and convenience enhancements. The adjustable front seats in F-PACE and XF have been boosted with the availability of winged headrests. The new designs feature powered height adjustment with manual side wing supports.

Dual View technology is introduced across all three models, allowing the driver and front passenger to view different infotainment displays using the central 10-inch Touchscreen display. The clever InControl technology is available when Touch Pro is specified and allows the driver to follow satellite navigation instructions while the passenger uses the same display to view USB or TV outputs.

A revised paint palette for all three vehicles brings the colour names into line with those offered throughout the Jaguar Land Rover family, simplifying the customer ordering experience.

Jaguar takes pride in the safety of its vehicles and F-PACE, XF and XE feature a pair of new technologies.

Forward Traffic Detection, part of the surround camera system, is designed to assist when forward visibility is restricted. Using a discreet forward-facing camera in the grille, the system detects items crossing the path of the vehicle and provides a visual warning on the central screen when a potential hazard is detected. 

Forward Vehicle Guidance is fitted as part of the Surround Camera System and helps drivers to place the vehicle when completing low speed manoeuvres. Working in conjunction with the front parking sensors the system provides a visual representation of the vehicle overlaid with wheel projections showing the alignment of the steering. Drivers can see the parking distance reading on the central screen, taking the stress out of tight manoeuvres.

On XE and XF models Blind Spot Assist (BSA) enhances Jaguar Land Rover’s existing Blind Spot Monitor system by using the collision warning system in tandem with the Electric Power Steering System. If BSA detects a vehicle in or approaching the blind spot when changing lanes, it will apply a gentle steering force to keep the vehicle in its lane.

WORLD’S FIRST IN-CAR CASHLESS PAYMENT

Jaguar XE, XF and F-PACE owners can now use the touchscreen of their car to pay for fuel at Shell service stations with a new in-car cashless payment system.

Rather than using a card at the pump, or queuing in the forecourt shop, owners who install the Shell App can simply drive up to any pump at a Shell service station (initially in the UK and then globally) and use the vehicle’s touchscreen to select how much fuel they require and pay using PayPal or Apple Pay. Android Pay will be added later in 2017.

Once the driver has filled up, an electronic receipt will be displayed on the touchscreen, so customers can leave the forecourt confident of having paid. A receipt will also be sent directly from the pump to the driver’s email address so it can be added to accounting or expenses software.

BY MODEL IN DETAIL:

Jaguar F-PACE

Since its Guinness World Record breaking reveal at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, where F-PACE completed the world’s largest loop the loop, the performance SUV has become Jaguar’s fastest selling vehicle. The 2018 model year enhancements range from the introduction of more powerful, efficient and refined engines to enhanced front seats. Visual changes include a revised colour palette and extended options list giving customers more choice.

Ingenium engines

The focus of the 2018 model year enhancements is on broadening Jaguar Land Rover’s range of advanced Ingenium engines, with a trio of new powerplants welcomed into the F-PACE line-up.

With CO₂ emissions as low as 126g/km†, the new 163PS four-cylinder 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel provides optimised fuel economy. The arrival of a manual RWD derivative delivers 380Nm of torque and impressive fuel economy of up to 59.2mpg (4.8l/100km)* making it the most efficient engine in the range. These credentials earn it the E-Performance badge, which is reserved for models that combine traditional Jaguar performance with the most affordable ownership costs and optimised efficiency.

In addition, the existing 180PS four-cylinder Ingenium diesel is available with an automatic RWD transmission for the first time as part of the 2018 Model Year enhancements, delivering CO₂ emissions of 134g/km and combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg (5.1l/100km).

Customers looking for improved diesel performance will be able to choose a new high output 240PS Ingenium engine for the first time. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine’s twin turbo set-up promises more performance at high engine speeds without compromising responses at low revs. The 25d badged AWD variant is available with Jaguar’s acclaimed eight-speed automatic gearbox – a combination that delivers CO₂ emissions of 153g/km, fuel economy of 48.7mpg (5.8l/100km) and 0-62mph (100km/h) in 7.2 seconds.

The new 250PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine is available with an automatic transmission and AWD drivetrain in the UK. It has single twin-scroll turbo and produces 365Nm of torque from only 1,200rpm. The smooth and responsive petrol engine powers F-PACE from 0-62mph (100km/h) in 6.8 seconds and produces CO₂ emissions of 170g/km, returning fuel economy of 38.2mpg (7.4l/100km).

Choice, comfort and convenience

Interior changes put the emphasis on enhanced choice, comfort and convenience. A new Light Oyster / Ebony interior option gives the premium cabin a purposeful appearance and all Prestige and Portfolio models feature the Sport steering wheel as standard. Customers who choose the automatic transmission also benefit from twin covered cup holders on the centre console, giving the interior a cleaner, less cluttered appearance.

Flagship Portfolio derivatives include the optional feature of enhanced front seats with powered headrest height adjustment and manually adjustable winged headrests providing supreme comfort and simplicity. In addition, Jaguar’s Dual View screen technology provides further convenience to driver and passengers.

In common with the XF and XE sports saloons, 2018 model year F-PACE features the very latest safety technologies with the addition of Forward Traffic Detection and Forward Vehicle Guidance.

The 18MY F-PACE is available to order now from Jaguar UK retailers, priced from £34,730 on-the-road.

JAGUAR XF

The 2018 Model Year XF sports saloon introduces three new powerplants, including 200PS and 250PS derivatives of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine for the first time.

The 200PS derivative is available with an automatic RWD powertrain, blending traditional Jaguar performance with excellent efficiency. The new engine powers XF from 0-62mph (100km/h) in 7.5 seconds and returns fuel economy of 41.5mpg (6.8l/100km), with CO₂ emissions of 154g/km.

The potent 250PS unit is available with an automatic transmission and both RWD and AWD drivetrains. The RWD model matches the efficiency of the 200PS engine yet accelerates from 0-62mph (100km/h) in only 6.6 seconds. All-wheel drive variants match this performance with CO₂ emissions of 159g/km.

Alongside the existing 163PS and 180PS versions of Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engines, customers will also be able to choose the new 240PS powerplant. The powerful new derivative is available with RWD and AWD drivetrains, combining fuel economy of 53.3mpg (5.3l/100km) and 51.4mpg (5.5l/100km) with CO₂ emissions of 139g/km and 144g/km respectively. The twin turbo configuration delivers new levels of diesel performance with the 0-62mph (100km/h) sprint completed in a sporty 6.5 seconds.

Art of Performance

Alongside the new engine options, Jaguar XF features Configurable Dynamics as a standalone feature for the first time. The system is fitted to automatic models specified without Adaptive Suspension and provides a Factory setting plus a choice of Normal or Dynamic modes for the steering, engine and gearbox.**

Adaptive Dynamics with configurable dynamics is available on vehicles fitted with Adaptive Suspension. It also allows drivers to adjust the ride comfort and handling responses to suit the driving conditions or personal preference. In addition, when Touch Pro infotainment is specified customers benefit from Dynamic-i, which adds a stopwatch, g-meter readout and accelerator and braking graphics to the central touchscreen display, allowing the driver and front passenger to monitor every aspect of the vehicle’s performance.

Comfort and convenience

With its generous 540-litre luggage area, XF is a practical sports saloon and the addition of the new Gesture Boot Lid function for 2018 model year makes loading and unloading even more convenient.

This handy feature is available on vehicles with keyless entry and rear parking aid and allows customers to open and close the boot simply by waving a foot under either side of the rear bumper. Sensors detect the movement and trigger the boot opening, making it possible to load the boot easily when carrying items in both hands. The driver is also able to then close the boot in the same way.

Comfort gets a boost in the shape of enhanced driver and front passenger seats with new 20 way Luxury seating available on Portfolio models. This incorporates power headrests with side wing supports. Meanwhile, Dual View technology brings new functionality to the infotainment system.

Jaguar XF’s five-star Euro NCAP rating has been augmented with a trio of new features in the form of Blind Spot Assist, Forward Traffic Detection and Forward Vehicle Guidance. The additional safety technologies maintain the sport saloon’s position as one of the safest cars on the road.

The 18MY XF is available to order now from Jaguar UK retailers, priced from £32,490 on-the-road.

JAGUAR XE

The award-winning Jaguar XE benefits from a host of enhancements. The Ingenium petrol family expands in XE with 200PS RWD automatic and 250PS RWD and AWD automatic derivatives providing customers with more choice than ever before.

The 200PS engine produces 320Nm of torque and powers XE from 0-62mph (100km/h) in 7.1 seconds with combined fuel economy of 45.1 (6.3l/100km) and CO₂ emissions of 144g/km. The more powerful 250PS RWD model delivers identical fuel economy and tailpipe emissions but sprints from 0-62mph (100km/h) in only 6.3 seconds. The enhanced traction provided by Jaguar’s AWD drivetrain cuts one-1/10sec off the acceleration benchmark (down to 6.2 seconds) with CO₂ emissions of 154g/km.

Customers looking for even more dynamic performance can take advantage of the upgraded XE S model. Its thrilling 3.0-litre V6 engine is shared with the F-TYPE sport car and sees power raised from 340PS to 380PS for improved performance and refinement.

For diesel customers the new twin-turbo Ingenium engine provides V6 performance levels from a four-cylinder engine. The 240PS unit produces an impressive 500Nm of torque from 1,500rpm, which is enough to power the AWD sports saloon from 0-62mph (100km/h) in 6.1 seconds, with CO₂ emissions of only 137g/km and combined fuel economy of 54.4mpg (5.2l/100km).

In common with the XF sports saloon, XE is now available with Configurable Dynamics as a standalone feature, providing even greater scope for driver customisation.**

Adaptive Dynamics, which also provides personalisation of the suspension settings, is currently available on automatic 180PS and 240PS models but will be available on vehicles powered by the new 200PS and 250PS 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engines. When Touch Pro infotainment is fitted in conjunction with Adaptive Dynamics, customers benefit from Dynamic-i, which adds a stopwatch, g-meter readout and accelerator and braking graphics to the central touchscreen display.

Convenience and safety

Living with the XE has never been easier thanks to a host of convenience enhancements. A Gesture Boot Lid makes it possible for customers to open the boot with a simple wave of the foot beneath the rear bumper, taking the stress out of loading and unloading luggage.

The availability of a 12.3-inch TFT virtual instrument cluster provides greater clarity for drivers when specifying Touch Pro infotainment. With four distinct visual themes to choose from, the large display makes it possible to view full-screen navigation mapping, reducing the stress of driving in unfamiliar surroundings. Meanwhile, Dual View technology brings additional versatility to the 10-inch Touchscreen display on the central console by allowing the driver and front passenger to view different information using the same display.

The XE sports saloon was judged to be the safest large family car by Euro NCAP when it was tested in 2016 thanks to its excellent occupant protection and pedestrian protection technology. Jaguar has enhanced its comprehensive suite of safety kit with the addition of Blind Spot Assist, Forward Vehicle Guidance and Forward Traffic Detection technologies.

The pedestrian safety bar is raised further on XE by Jaguar’s advanced Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which provides superior functionality with the introduction of Pedestrian Detection. The system operates from 3-37mph (5-60km/h) and uses a forward facing camera to detect hazards, automatically applying the brakes when the risk of a collision is detected. The state-of-the-art safety aid is able to identify pedestrians standing over 1m tall in the path of the vehicle.

The 18MY XE is available to order now from Jaguar UK retailers, priced from £28,295 on-the-road.

†  126 g/km refers to cars fitted with 235/65 R18 tyres on ‘Style 1021’ or ‘Style 1022’ wheels

* When fitted with ULRR tyres

** Not available on 163PS and 180ps manual derivative

Seat delivers a new X-PERIENCE, the latestes Leon comes with 4WD and exceptional figures.

• Permanent four-wheel drive and all-road equipment
• 2.0 TDI engine with 150 and 184 PS
• Robust, elegant design with premium interior
• State-of-the-art ACC with Front Assist and SEAT Drive Profile

The new SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE, with permanent four-wheel drive and all-road equipment, offers driving fun wherever you may choose to go. The newest member of the successful Leon line-up combines emotional design with state-of-the-art technology, together with optimum usability and surprising versatility. With an exceptionally high level of performance and safety, the latest-generation all-wheel drive and a full array of state-of-the-art assistance systems, the Leon X-PERIENCE is offered with 2.0 TDI 150PS and 184PS outputs.

The new Leon X-PERIENCE completes SEAT’s highly successful Leon range. Alongside the dynamic two-door Leon SC, the elegant five-door Leon, the versatile Leon ST estate and the high-performance Leon Cupra, the Leon X-PERIENCE is the perfect companion for a varied and active lifestyle.

“The new Leon X-PERIENCE interprets our emotional design language in a whole new way. This functional aesthetic, this elegant robustness and safety shows an openness to new ideas. We maintain the youthful spirit with a distinctive feel for the practical things in life” says Jürgen Stackmann, President of SEAT S.A. “The Leon X-PERIENCE is the perfect fit for SEAT. As the next step in our brand strategy, it will expand and consolidate the great success achieved by the Leon.”

Alongside the latest-generation TDI engines and permanent all-wheel drive with intelligent, electronic control, the Leon ST X-PERIENCE boasts all-road suspension with extra ground clearance. A distinctive off-road look and individual interior offer an added dimension of driving fun, together witha wide array of ultra-modern technologies. These include a four-wheel EDS dynamic control system (electronic differential locks on both axles), an extended electronic differential lock for better traction while cornering (XDS), an electronic stability programme and a multi-collision brake system delivering maximum safety.

Further optional hi-tech features include full-LED headlights, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control with City Emergency Brake function, drowsiness detection and lane-keeping assistant.

“On tarmac or gravel, in sun, rain or snow – with its all-wheel drive, the Leon X-PERIENCE takes it all in its stride, demonstrating its superb dynamics on all types of road with absolutely no negative impact on either comfort or usability. Emotional driving fun and exceptional usability – this is where the customer finds both,”says Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice-President for Research and Development at SEAT S.A. “The Leon X-PERIENCE also offers outstanding safety in all situations, thanks to its superb traction, excellent brakes and integrated assistance systems that extend all the way to ACC adaptive cruise control with Front Assist and emergency braking function.”

The highly acclaimed design language of the Leon family has been further accentuated for the X-PERIENCE. Sharp lines provide the all-road estate with a stunning appearance of energy and vitality. The dynamic silhouette is long and graceful, yet the Leon X-PERIENCE offers the full spectrum of usability for work and leisure, family and sport. The luggage compartment offers a carrying capacity of 587 litres, which extends to as much as 1,470 litres with the rear-seats folded down.

The Leon X-PERIENCE derives its own distinct character from the robust protection moulding on the door sills and wheel arches. The powerful front end is adorned with substantial air intakes and integrated fog lamps with cornering light function, plus the front spoiler with its aluminium-look. The rear end, too, is distinguished by its new bumper with an aluminium-look insert and by the chrome tailpipes, which are standard on the 2.0 TDI 184 PS. The large wheel arches can accommodate 17-inch or optional 18-inch wheels in a dedicated five-twin-spoke design. The roof rails are finished in black.

Premium interior

The Leon X-PERIENCE emphasises its premium position within the Leon family with its unique trim. In the interior, new materials, attention to detail and a combination of strong colours give this car more personality. It offers the black and grey sporty elegance of high-quality fabric upholstery, as well as the option of brown Alcantara or all-black leather seats.

The X-PERIENCE logo adorns the door sills and steering wheel, while orange stitching accentuates the adventurous spirit and youthfulness of this car, which can be both serious and fun.

“The Leon X-PERIENCE expands the possibilities of everyday life. We also wanted it to have a look that combined premium elegance with sporty dynamism” says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, Head of SEAT Design.

Power with Efficiency – the engines

The dynamic character of the Leon X-PERIENCE is perfectly matched with two TDI engines that are as gutsy as they are efficient, plus a six-speed manual transmission. The common-rail four-cylinder units produce 150 PS and 184 PS. The standard fit Start/Stop System and Energy Recover System are key elements of the efficiency package.

The top engine is the 2.0 TDI with 184 PS. With its maximum torque of 380 Nm and DSG transmission as standard, it delivers enormous dynamism that is only partially conveyed by its acceleration time of 7.1 seconds from 0 to 62mph and its top speed of 139mph. The engine declares its efficiency with a combined fuel consumption figure of 55.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 133 grams per kilometre.

The 2.0 TDI with 150 PS, 320 Nm of torque and six-speed manual transmission also provides effective propulsion for the Leon X-PERIENCE, boasting a fuel consumption figure of 57.6mpg (CO₂: 126 g/km).

Latest-generation drive system

The permanent all-wheel drive in the new Leon ST X-PERIENCE is among the most modern and efficient systems of its kind in the world. SEAT uses a newly developed multi-plate clutch with hydraulic actuation and electronic control – a fifth-generation Haldex clutch. It reacts extremely quickly to all conceivable drive input, thus delivering a considerable benefit in active safety and dynamics.

In the interests of axle-load distribution, the clutch is positioned at the end of the prop shaft in front of the rear-axle differential. Inside is a multi-plate package running in an oil bath. The metal friction rings are ordered in pairs one behind the other – one ring of each pair is permanently meshed with the clutch cage, which rotates with the prop shaft. The other ring rotates with the drive shaft to the rear-axle differential.

In normal operation, the clutch transmits most of the engine power to the front wheels. Should their traction decrease, the torque is diverted smoothly and in a matter of a few milliseconds to the rear. A piston presses the multi-plate pack together to reach the necessary oil pressure. The new generation of the clutch no longer requires a pressure accumulator, making it considerably more compact and 1.4 kg lighter than the same part in preceding generations.

Dynamism and Safety

The carefully balanced running gear reinforces the dynamic character of the new Leon ST. The springs smoothly master all surface irregularities, while the steering delivers calm and refined directionality, as well as excellent feedback.

Compared with the Leon ST, the X-PERIENCE stands around 15 millimetres higher, giving it that much more ground clearance. Up front is a MacPherson-strut suspension layout with subframe. The Leon X-PERIENCE responds spontaneously and precisely to steering input, mastering all manner of corners with calm stability. At the rear is a four-link suspension that handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently from one another. Shock absorbers and coil springs are mounted separately – a solution that delivers exceptionally fine response characteristics. The brake system on the new SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE is likewise a match for tough tasks.

SEAT Drive Profile enables the driver to vary the characteristics of the power steering, throttle control and the DSG transmission in three modes – eco, comfort and sport. There is also an individual setting. In addition, SEAT Drive Profile incorporates a sound actuator close to the engine to provide an even more refined engine tone.

The Leon X-PERIENCE is available to order from September and will reach UK showrooms later in 2014.

(end)

SEAT is the only company in its sector with the full-range capacity to design, develop, manufacture and market cars in Spain. A member of the Volkswagen Group, the multinational has its headquarters in Martorell (Barcelona), exporting more than 80% of its vehicles, and is present in more than 75 countries. In 2012 SEAT had a total turnover exceeding six billion euros, with overall deliveries amounting to 321,000 units.

SEAT Group employs 14,000 professionals at its three production centres in Barcelona − Zona Franca, El Prat de Llobregat and Martorell, where it manufactures the highly successful Ibiza and Leon, amongst other models. Additionally, the company produces the Alhambra in Palmela (Portugal), the Mii in Bratislava (Slovakia) and the Toledo in Mladá Boleslav (Czech Republic) at Volkswagen Group plants. 

The Spanish multinational also has a Technical Center, a ‘knowledge hub’, bringing together close to 1,000 engineers whose goal is to be the driving force behind innovation for the number one industrial investor in R&D in Spain. In line with its declared commitment to environmental protection, SEAT undertakes and bases its core activity on sustainability, namely reduction of _CO2 emissions, energy efficiency, as well as recycling and re-use of resources.

SEAT UK enjoyed a tremendous year in 2013, selling 45,312 cars and achieving a 2.0% market share – both company records.