The new Leon is a car that comes with great credentials, but only once you've given its accelerator a tap and been launched into a new sphere of technology and performance, will you know what everybody else is talking about. An unmistakeable race spirit, fused with pure power and the most advanced automotive technology. It leaves no room for questions.

In fact, it is the answer to what the road has been asking for.

Take a moment to appreciate the enhancements to the Leon's already famous athletic exterior. The front bumper, front lights and grille were redesigned to give the vehicle a more striking appearance. Side mirrors were also re-worked, while the back end sees a more sculpted bumper, tailgate, lights and a wider rear windscreen. The interior isn't short on sophistication either. Upholsteries are more customisable than ever and come in an even wider range of trims and colour options. The centre console and instrument cluster has been refreshed, and feature black panel technology. While a newly designed steering wheel and gearshift knob will also be sure to compete for your attention.

We think technology should make your life easier. And what could be more helpful than en extra set of eyes when parallel parking? With the new Park Distance Control feature (PDC), discreetly integrated sensors in the front and rear bumpers warn the driver if they approach objects. Meanwhile, an Optical Parking System (OPS) - optional for the SE, Sport, FR and Cupra models when specified with the SEAT Media System - lets you see your parking progress on the navigation system display. Let's not forget our new Combined USB/Aux-in Port (CUP), which allows you to fully control your MP3-files on your USB device or iPod^® through your multi-function steering wheel controls. You'll wonder how you got by without them.

In manual mode, the new Leon's 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) - available with the 2.0 TSI 211PS engine - lets you race through the gears using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. In automatic mode, you can sit back as it picks just the right moment to shift gears, optimising performance and fuel efficiency. Acceleration is smooth and dynamic every time. It's as real as artificial intelligence gets.

The new Leon comes with an even wider range of safety features, like bi-xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS), illuminating the path ahead of you before you turn. Fog lights with cornering function light the way even more. Rear thorax airbags are neatly integrated into the backrest, extending safety to rear passengers. Also, the standard ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) monitors information from the steering wheel, tyres, brakes and accelerator, making adjustments where necessary to keep you in the perfect arc. Meanwhile, the ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) keeps your wheels from skidding, no matter what the road conditions. Plus our Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) reacts to emergency stops by applying maximum braking effort within milliseconds.

Technology makes the new Leon faster and sleeker - but it also prevents you from having to ask for directions ever again thanks to the optional new SEAT Media System. The console comes with a 5'' colour display providing high quality maps and precise acoustic recommendations you can access through an easy-to-use touch screen or the multi-function steering wheel. The Leon's dynamic guidance even uses current traffic conditions to update its recommendations. Got to get somewhere fast?