WITH a flagship 180 bhp, four-wheel-drive and six-speed transmission, Seat's Leon range is exciting car drivers around the region.

The high-performance Leon, with 142 mph performance, marks a fresh milestone for the fast advancing, Barcelona-based car maker in the UK.

An important new contender in the European markets largest volume segment, the new model is seen as 'the missing link' in the fast-expanding Seat range.

At 4.184 metres long, the Leon hatchback is ideally suited to its sector by combining coupe-like styling with the comfort of a saloon and the functional advantage of five doors.

In the UK, the range boasts eight models spanning 1.4 litres and 75 bhp up to its high performance 180bhp turbocharged out-and-out sports version.

There will be a choice of two Diesel units as well as a 1.6-litre 100bhp version. Prices range from £10,995 up to £18,000.

The new Leon, named after the historic Castilian city in northern Spain, competes head-on in Europe's most highly competitive segment By combining a range of key strengths, the distinctively styled Leon also offers the sporting character of a coupe, as well as the practicality and comfort of a family saloon in a well proportioned hatchback.

The Leon is exactly the right size to combine a range of sporting yet practical uses while offering the exceptional handling and refinement qualities which are making the brand such a success in 62 countries.

The Leon range is in four trim levels. Continuing the established advantage of a generous standard equipment list, the Leon features Climatronic (electronically controlled air conditioning); a satellite navigation system; ABS anti-lock brakes; traction control, electronic stability and anti-skid controls.

Also standard according to model, will be four airbags; electric retractable door mirrors; rain sensing wipers and a sound system with earphones for rear seat passengers.

In Europe, a choice of seven engines will range from the fuel efficient 68 bhp 1.9 SDi to the new star, the potent 180 bhp 1.8 20 V Turbo, the most powerful engine ever offered in a production Seat which, in the Sport model, is mated to six-speed manual transmission.

The Leon also becomes the fastest ever Seat with a top speed of 142 mph. The Diesel range is to include a 90 bhp 1.9 TDi, as well as the 110 bhp engine. There is also a choice of a 75 bhp 1.4 16V unit, 100 bhp 1.6 and a 125 bhp 1.8 20V completing the range of petrol engines