What’s good?
- The standard Leon could never be considered as bland but the ST X-PERIENCE adds some welcome cosmetic tweaks. New bumpers, alloy wheels, roof rails and extra body cladding give it some added presence.
- The ST X-PERIENCE is the only Leon in the range available with four-wheel drive, so it offers more than simply visual upgrades.
- 28mm has also been added to the ride height, so if you do venture off-road there’s no risk of damaging the underside of the car or getting beached.
- The added ride height doesn’t disrupt the way the X-PERIENCE handles. Advanced XDS traction control keeps the handling precise and there’s only a fraction more body roll over the standard ST model despite the increased ride height.
- More powerful 181bhp versions come with the smooth six-speed DSG gearbox as standard. Changes are well mannered and accurate but the six-speed manual fitted to the lesser-powered 148bhp model is still precise.
- Both engines offer identical running costs, claimed at 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 129g/km, meaning a BIK rating of 21 per cent.
- The ST X-PERIENCE is one of the only four-wheel drive estate models to dip below 130g/km of CO2, too.
- In everyday driving conditions, power is sent only to the front wheels. When the car senses a loss of grip, drive is distributed to the rear wheels to give extra traction. Employing the four-wheel drive system to work in this way also help boost efficiency.
- The new Haldex 5 clutch is responsible for shuffling power between the front and rear axles. You can’t feel when the system is at work as the transition of power is smooth and uninterrupted.
- The added ground clearance also adds to the car’s comfort on the move. Even on larger 18-inch alloys, it manages changes in surfaces and potholes without upsetting passengers inside.
- Practicality is unaffected despite the adoption of four-wheel drive, so the large 587-litre boot remains. Fold the rear seats flat and space increases to 1,470 litres.
- Only two specs are available but both are generously equipped. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloys, rear parking sensors, rear privacy glass and roof rails. More luxurious SE Technology trim adds sat nav, DAB radio and auto lights and wipers.
What’s not so good?
- It’s expensive. Prices start from £24,385 but opt for a top spec model and the cost quickly rises to £28,870 – making it the most expensive Leon in the entire range.
- There isn’t a lot to differentiate the ST X-PERIENCE from the rest of the Leon range from the inside. You do get orange stitching and bolstered front seats but given the price premium a few more extras would be welcome.