Against such talented family hatchback rivals as the BMW 1 Series, Ford Focus and Skoda Scala, a car has to be really quite special to come out on top. And the latest Seat Leon is just that.

For starters, it gets the basics right by offering a big boot and even more room for rear seat passengers than the Skoda Octavia. In addition, it’s very well priced, while the punchy turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine that we recommend won’t pinch too much of your cash at the pumps.

Don’t go thinking that the Leon feels even remotely hairshirt, though. It’s every bit as smart as the more expensive Volkswagen Golf inside, while its infotainment system is more user-friendly and it comes laden with standard equipment.

The Leon is terrific to drive, too, with lively handling that makes every journey enjoyable, yet without the uncomfortable ride that you might reasonably expect as a trade-off.

All of this adds up to an incredible all-rounder – one that excels as a family car and serves up a very welcome slice of fun at the same time, all while costing less than you’d think. No wonder it’s our winner.

We like

> Smart, spacious interior
> Great to drive
> Punchy yet frugal engine

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