Im sorry . I have a question. I am guessing that tge previous infotainment system was smaller in its time? Or is that not true? If it was smaller than the question is did it have to cut the interior to fit it? And who actually can do that? Thanks in advance..
My parents have a 2011 Leon and most of it is certainly straightforward but holy hell, the digital display in the centre has the worst user interface I've ever had to deal with. That is the primary reason I would not buy one of these for myself.
This is how you should own a car. I have a 2006 A4 Avant. Keep up with maintenance, replace little parts that need changing. Still drives like a dream, does all I need. No need to 'upgrade'.
I think you should keep it and carry on, you've underlined all the reasons why replacing it with a new petrol manual car is hardly an upgrade for alot of financial cost and this car still feels fresh and does everything you want it too so I see you having it for quite a while longer.
@@lvpvsmalvm522 LOL new Toyotas, Hondas and Subarus look older than 5 year old Volkswagens/Skodas/SEATs especially on the inside. Toyotas in particular are atrocious. Volvos are nice though.
@N1ckZ My 2003 Honda Accord always gets comments on how modern it looks inside and out. It is slightly modified but nobody believes it's a 21 years old car.
shumranskunder3334 Absolutely! I had the 2008 Accord 2.4. Looks stunning, has adaptive cruise control, back up camera, fully electric seats all for 2008! Plus that 2.4L engine is bullet proof. Can't say the same for a 2008 passat 🤣 probably half the trim will have fallen off and multiple electrical faults, lol
The question should be "why do other people get rid of perfectly good cars within 5 years?" Modern cars even from 10-15 years ago are more reliable than ever, their interiors wear better than ever, and their tech means they don't really feel outdated. It's also far more eco-friendly to keep an older car running for as long as possible since the majority of resources used and emissions released come from its manufacture rather than from the tailpipe.
The eco friendly part is something that a lot of people say but it's also usually wrong. If you get a new car after 5 years then you personally are less eco friendly. But, because you're selling used car at quite lower price than what new is, you are helping someone else drive something that might be quite more eco friendly than what they currently have.
It's not like they are being scrapped after five years use is it? Someone else will run it for five years, and then someone else for five years. And then I'll probably get it.
IMHO you should invest in a rust treatment and protection of this car now. Modern cars are plagued with inconvenient touch controls, distracting driver assistance/warnings that have to be turned off every drive, and higher maintenance costs associated with their greater complexity. You have found a functional, practical car for your profession that has proven its reliability, you should be keeping that going as long as economically feasible!
I bought a 2017 model a few days after I watched your 10 year anniversary with the car. At that time I spend around 4 months looking for a car and your video was a big reason I ended up going for it. It has been great, a massive improvement over the Ford Ka I have been driving for the past 4 years.
I've recently bought a 2010 Audi A6 Avant Le Mans edition. 255,500 miles and rising. Previous owner spared no expense in keeping it mechanically sound. He bought it on 30,000 miles. It's aged brilliantly too, very little interior wear, other than the driver side floor matt.
I've had the 7.5 Golf for 4 years now - I can easily see myself owning it for the next 10 years. Golf 7 / Leon / Octavia / A3 from that period are great, especially with 1.4 TSI!
It's refreshing to see someone who takes care of their car instead of treating it like a disposable appliance. I also hear what you're saying about the new trend with touchscreens replacing buttons. All that does is make the controls less intuitive. Personally, I honestly don't understand people who change cars every few years. I currently have a Mk5 Mondeo which I bought new in 2016. I have absolutely no intention of replacing it - partly because there's nothing else on the market and in my price range that suits exactly what I want, partly because I bond with my cars emotionally and letting them go has always been incredibly difficult for me (I am not beyond spending significantly more than the car is worth in maintenance and repairs just to keep it going, and have done so with one of my older cars in the past).
Such an interesting video Richard. My parents were recently in the market for a new car, and quickly realised what you said here - if you have a car from around the last 10/15 years, drivetrain is probably the only reason to upgrade. They went for a PHEV, which has proven a huge difference. It's funny though, as I ended up taking their older car (sentimentality strikes!) for myself, and in many ways we've seen that the older (2008) car is better built than the newer model (2022) of the same car by the same manufacturer.
I absolutely love my mk3 Leon, only had it about 10 months but I've done 18000 miles and it's been 100% reliable! It's a 2020 year car and could have had the mk4 but this one had physical climate controls and proven reliability record!
Fellow instructor, 213k is impressive . I've been using Mini coopers, I have Bimmer code and link and a Vgate. This mini has been faultless, currently on 58k 2018 plate. Usually I move my cars on at 100k or so. Worth a rethink as I think the Cooper 1.5 T is bullet proof. My current one is fully loaded with the JCW kit so worth keeping. As a rural instructor I probably cover more miles per pupil than most so I tend to get 3 years tops out of them.
100% peak Leon this car. New one is so blobby and disappointing - my theory is VWG got spooked they made the last Leon 'too' good, eroding into Golf and A3 sales, so they purposefully nerfed the new one a bit to make it sit as the more overtly budget option, like SEAT is meant to be. I still find the 184 FR TDI Leon of that era a genuinely desirable car after all these years!
I have a 2024 Seat Ibiza Fr Sport as a first car. It’s a Motability car for anyone wondering how I can afford it plus insurance. Your 10 year video on the Leon convinced me to get a Seat. I’ve had mine about a month and it’s great
If you don’t mind me asking how does the whole process of leasing a free car work? Anyone can afford most cars on road on finance really. With motability you are leasing the car and typically in a normal personal lease, you don’t pay road tax and the insurance could be lower as you are expected to return the car back. I would believe you anyway, and you haven’t said your age and these days you can pass your test in your thirties, your forties and fifties even. There are a lot of people who don’t even drive for personal reasons, economic reasons and just straight up preference. I live in London and cars move really slow. Taking public transport can be 5-10 minutes slower than driving but you don’t have to park and can just walk to your destination. I cycle myself, it’s the fastest way to get around a city like London. It doesn’t make financial sense to “upgrade” like Richard says as he can still teach fine in his older SEAT and I can still get around on my bike. We are both going to pay so much money on the something that basically does the same thing really. Most people buy a car to get from A-B that’s it, I can do that on my bike, check! To do the shopping, I can fit panniers, check! To go long distances, I can buy a train ticket and bring my bike along for the ride, check! For me to buy a decent car at my age 20 living in London with everything included will be at least £7,000 to like £10,000. It’s a lot of money that I am putting into something isn’t going to benefit very much. I am considering buying a pick up truck in the near future as I will making regular trips to transport heavy goods for my business. With that I can justify paying £20,000+ for a motor vehicle as it will help me make money and will be vital for my business. This is more than twice as my budget for a private vehicle. It’s all in the benefit/cost ratio. It’s key for making good financial decisions, which many people don’t do and then cry about it. Being financially literate isn’t that difficult. Enjoy your free car, man!
@ well, I get PIP (Personal Independence Payment - made up of the daily living amount and mobility amount) each month due to being profoundly deaf so the mobility part of it goes towards the car. Tax and insurance are included as well which means my only monthly outgoing is fuel as I live at home. I’m 18 by the way so it makes financial sense with insurance and tax being included.
@@Jackfinn456 Totally I agree with you! When I was your age 18, I couldn’t afford to go near a car, even these days. Now since I got my two bikes. I’ve changed my mind. The motability scheme is very helpful for younger people like yourself who have disabilities who would very much benefit from having mobility from a car. Sometimes I don’t think it’s a bad thing that I can’t afford to drive as there are people who need to drive and right now I don’t “need” to drive. It’s a want for me. It does make total sense for you to have a car especially at your age as it isn’t easy to run cars because of the high cost of insurance. If you didn’t get a car through motability, then a car like yours would be expensive to insure due to value of it. Plus the monthly payments for the costs that typically covered by the motability scheme at your age will kill you for a car like that. Insurance is just too expensive for young people that most people are priced out or deterred by it. I’m a literal case study.
Bought a 63 plate Leon 1.4 TSI FR 6 speed after watching your reliability video, done 5k miles in a few months and it’s been much better than my old Fabia, currently on 110k miles and needs a bit of maintenance but nothing too major
I recently got a Seat Leon SC in FR trim just like yours and as I have been talking with my friends about it I have come to the same conclusion as you have and its that I dont really see a car worth upgrading to that doesnt cost at least double or triple the money (talking second hand ofc). My friends suggest the A3 but to get an A3 that has the features my Leon has such as the full led headlights, ambient lighting, sports seats, sports suspension and such I would at least have to pay double what I paid for the Leon but Im getting the same chasis and engine and gearbox that I alredy have. (Not to mention that I also prefer the looks of the Leon). So I totally understand why you have yet to upgrade it and that brings me a lot of joy honestly to hear it from someone who knows cars and has owned one for a very long time. It confirms I have made a good decision buying one and Im looking forward to keeping it fresh and new looking just like you do with yours. And I can definately confirm what you said about the Seat Sound System. It honestly blew me away. Anyway, I love your videos man, helped me a lot when I was just starting to drive and I have been a fan for some time so keep up the good work!
10 speakers (including the subwoofer): 1) front left midwoofer 2) front left tweeter 3) front centre midrange 4) front right midwoofer 5) front right tweeter 6) rear left midwoofer 7) rear left tweeter 8) rear right midwoofer 9) rear right tweeter 10) rear subwoofer
Had a 2018 150hp one and I loved it, had to let it go because I was mostly using the work car anyway, so couldn’t justify paying for it to just sit there. Fun to drive, good on fuel and very practical. Would highly recommend!
Nice review Richard. I have a 2008 Leon FR as my daily car (Boxster as weekend car) that I have had from new and fancy a new 8.5 GTI but finding it hard to justify the difference in price and have gone through exactly the same thought process as you - I am attached to mine 😊
This video and your previous one talking about your car has fully convinced me to keep my Seat Leon 2018. I have a 1.4 TSI like yourself, and I learned a lot from your video as I've never used the auto climate control for example. Thanks for your previous video about your history with the car and for this one too!
I had one, 2.0 TDi FR, from new for 3 years. Only got rid as for a while i lived in a city centre with no need for a car. Would still have it now if not. Great car that did everything I needed. Quick, economical. And would eat long journeys up with no effort.
I had my previous Audi A6 2.0TDi for 13 years and 332,000 miles on the original engine, still running like new when I sold it. WV group cars take some beating, my present Audi A6 40TDi has done 90,000 trouble free miles so far.
Great video Richard. At this time I would never be able to keep a car for that long. I get bored of them fast and than start looking for something else.
I know the feeling because that's how I used to be. For me it's much easier to hang onto a car I bought new for a long time whereas I'm much more likely to change used cars frequently.
I’m on my third VW and my second Touran 2.0tdi. I’ve always kept my cars for about 5 years or 150,000 miles, but the current one has been so good that I’ve still got it at 236,000 miles. It’s often still clocking up 7-800 miles each week at about 50mpg. It’s been mechanically perfect and I still enjoy driving it over long distances so see no reason to replace it. I service it myself every 9,000 miles with a DSG oil and filter change every 37,000 miles. It uses no oil between services and has easily been the cheapest car I’ve ever run.
I bought a 2012 bmw X1 with all original parts still bit over 2 years ago, currently at 200,000 km. Will keep it for as long as it can run, upgrading the display and interior now too.
The 1.8 is a more durable and tuneable engine, though. It has a cast iron block, which is very rare nowadays. But as you said, for day to day driving the 1.4 is the smarter choice. Also I confirm everything you said about OBDEleven, i literally coded in a rev cam to my 2014 A3 last week, worked like a charm.
Brilliant video as always! Who doesnt love a high mileage hero! I have a 2015 Leon Fr 184 for the past 4 years. Its just ticked over 145k miles and has been a brilliant car. I have no intention to change it. I think the screen in your car is from a 2015/2016 model year as from 2017 onwards the only had physical buttons on one side.
not a beginner driver, but watching some of your videos, i actually kinda started to like the little spanish Lion and did some research on those cars. Pretty much solid quality and performance cars considering how much they cost, a cheaper alternative to VW Golf equivalents. May he server you 10 more years without fail.
Ive got a mk3.5 leon 1.0 tsi 115bhp and i had a minor non fault collision, whilst the car was in the garage i was given a 2021 Mk4 leon and i absolutely hated it, the digital climate control was distracting, the car didnt look anywhere as good as mine and i was missing my climate control panel and my additional options, especially my heated seats, i bought it for £8000 2 years ago at 66,000 miles and is now sitting at a comfortable 115,000 miles! Still in love with it and dont plan on getting rid of it any time soon!
had a 2007 307 estate 1.6 hdi for 10 years, never had an issue its great plan on keeping it another 10 years i just change oil and filter twice a year very simple car easy to work on when i have to also still has its original clutch and battery
I'm using the FL version of an FR Mk.III Leon for food delivery in the Czech Republic. Bought her with 8 000 kilometres on the clock, no she is 140 000. Was a dream of mine to own an FR and even if I have to rebuild or to buy a new engine, she's is gonna stay with me for as long as possible.
I’ve got a 2024 SEAT Ibiza Xcellence Lux 1.0 110TSI 5-door manual. Unlike the new Leon, the new Ibiza still has a separate Climate Control which I find very easy to use. Being the top spec model, it has a reversing camera, front+rear sensors, adaptive cruise control, etc. Even with the 1 litre, it still has plenty of power. Comparing your 2014 Leon to my 2024 Ibiza, the looks, especially externally, are very similar.
I can vouch for those wheel buttons/ rollers. Had them on my Skoda Octavia. The VW group of cars from that era has aged well. This Leon, the Skoda, Golf etc all look sharp still today
Depending on the model it might be possible to retrofit some of these features you are looking for. Take audi for example any b9 platform can be upgraded to the b9.5 components including the mmi and instrument cluster. Yes while some crazy upgrades such as the mmi+instrument cluster would set you back 10k due to the labour cost there are easier ones such as the matrix lights that cost 2.5k-3.5k including warranty to have done by a garage or less than a grand if you are looking for a DIY project. Going on a forum dedicated to the car is worth gold if you are looking to keep any car for longer than 5 years.
I almost chocked when I thought you were sponsored by another OBD brand that's the biggest scam (carly) but obdeleven is really good and definitely recommended.
Most engines combined with a manual were always pretty good except for the odd oil guzzler TSI. Slushboxes always meant more expense in everyway (engine and suspension included)
We have a mk3 Leon 1.2tsi. Didnt really go out looking for one but its been excellent. Much better than I anticipated. Id probably have another when the time comes to change. No fuss or drama and no silly modern tech to annoy.
I have been looking at the 2021-22 1.5 TSI Seat Leon FR Hatchback version for a while, but I have read so many negative reviews regarding the infotainment system (especially controlling the AC from the screen) that it changed my mind. Such a shame... How do you find it?
I drive a 2008 octavia 1.9 tdi. It's even older than this Leon yet it serves it's purpose absolutely fine. Drives well, it's reliable, economical, takes me from A to B with no issues, keeps me warm in the winter and cold in the summer, helps me move furniture and appliances when I need to. I've driven lots of rentals and newer cars and see no reason to upgrade. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Some fancy distracting gadgets and touch screen controls for basic functions like the climate control and the wipers are no reason to upgrade. Manufacturers have no significant improvements to offer aside from electric/hybrid, but that takes other considerations and depends on your budget, local regulations, local infrastructure etc.
If you have a 1.9tdi you are better off sticking to your car as long as possible, because there's almost nothing out there that will give you the same good results. Also I completely agree, as long as my car has AC and a radio I'm happy.
i've had a 2013, 1.6 litre diesel ibiza since 2019, i have thought about trading it in a few times, but its just a brilliant car, i have the 5 door and i have to drive 55-60 miles a day for work with a mix of back roads and a bit of dual carriageway. the model i have only has a 5 speed gearbox, 6 speed would have been ideal for any longer journeys but the 5 speed still goes well. apart from the usual tyres and braks pads, (only had to replace discs once in my 5 years). I had the car re-mapped from 105BHP to 130BHP, which is quite possibly the best thing i could have done to the car, as the ability on back roads to over take tractors etc and get up to speed on motorway slip lanes is now pretty much effortless, aswell as made the car slightly more fuel efficient. The only thing the car doesnt do well is short journeys, (sub 5 miles), admittedly its better now with no DPF fitted. but regular runs to work used to sort that issue out. i'm now currently looking for something slightly larger, in regards to bootspace, so thinking leon or golf estates, but that is the only reason i would change the car.
You can put a six speed in your car fairly easily if you do your research on gearbox codes. I’ve done it to an Audi A2 and it has transformed long trunk route journeys.
Very VERY nice car that SEAT - in excellent condition! I own a 2023 Volvo V60, that I plan to keep for as long as I can; its a brilliant car (my third V60☺️), and I cant stand the latest cars.
We went from a 14 y/o Mk2 Leon 1.4 TSI to a facelift (Mk4) Cupra Leon 1.5 eTSI DSG recently. Quite a difference and the infotainment is finally fixed. We also stayed away from the pre-facelift Mk4 Leon because of the shoddy infotainment implementation, but the new one in Cupra is good.
I've had it in a black 5 door since 2014. People still tell me all the time what a nice car I have 🤷♂️ The heater matrix is a nightmare for getting blocked with casting sand left in the engine from the factory but aside from that I'm on 100k and still going strong. The Seat leon owners club is also one of the longest established and useful/friendly clubs available. The cupra is fast af!
I have the 2014 5dr LEON 1.6 TDI variant in the same colour. Love the look for its class and definitely appreciate how economical it is (~65mpg overall).
I have 2016 Toyota Auris hybrid since 2018. Bought it with 66 000 km on, it just keeps on chugging on - now with 260 000 km on the clock. No problems whatsoever.
All makes sense. I have a great spec 2016 F54 Clubman and I won't be changing any time soon due to the lastest car going backwards in many ways....like the touch controls you mentioned.
I got my VW Polo about 3 years. It had about 112,000 miles on it. Today it reached 120,000 miles, and my only real complaint is that the radio is almost too fiddly to use while driving. I love everything else about it. It's from 2004, so it's in that "sweet spot" (in my opinion) between modern cars with iPads for infotainment systems, and older cars where you're lucky if the heater works.
That is a quite powerful car! Mine is a bit slower with 78 HP, but it also weighs only 945 KG, so it is plenty. I get 53.6 US MPG on average. It's perfect for me! I've put 35,000 miles on it this year so far.
I'm glad at 18:45 you picked up on the fact that someone around 2009 clearly decided that a 6-week old infant should be able to complete an emergency stop in a family car 😂. Can't stand modern over-assisted brakes.
I have owned my 1998 gsx eclipse since I bought it brand new in 98 when I was 18 and I'm 43 now lol. I replaced the engine twice. It's my spare car now but I take it out every weekend and it's still on par with newer sports cars with a mild tune and mods.
lol What a wonderful video and how well executed. I would say you just had described my story but just used a different brand car. Thanks a lot. Will be sharing with my friends
No reason to replace it, if it's going just fine just as your is, you should keep it. Nice one it is too. And like the saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Hey Richard, really love your reviews. Mind doing a review on these 3 cylinder GDI engine's all companies are pushing. Preferably a KIA / Hyundai ones ?. Thanks, I know you have done the Kia Stonic but its a MildHybrid + and Auto, I would love your review on the classic ones with a manual
I've had 2 Leons, still do, ones a 14 plate (@141k) the other is the face lift 17 plate(@65k). The 17 plate is quite a lot nicer to be in than the 14 plate, especially the much bigger and faster screen with apple car play, they are both the 1.4TSI, the common thing that went was the water pump, easy and cheap repair though. I would suggest the 17 plate over the 14 because of the headlights, they are much much brighter, also they look nicer, the rear ones too. These engines are super reliable, had the walnut blast too, made it much smoother.
I had to scrap my 18 1/2 year old mk5 2.0TDI VW Golf in September due to severe subframe and sill corrosion, it was very sad getting rid of it as it was still mechanically sweet and such a fun drive. Rear subframe corroded but not seriously weakened had been advised at every MOT since February 2018, I wish we’d done more to slow down the rate of corrosion before it reached the point it did which I’m sure you will. I actually shopped around for a mk3 Leon 1.4TSI as a replacement for my golf because of your videos about yours however ended up with a mk4 Ibiza TOCA as good condition well looked after one ata good price was only 25 miles from me (I live in the depths of Cornwall)
Always great vids Rich! Keep up the good work.... some very well made points! I've just ordered myself a 1 Series BMW and the only thing that was making me think twice was the climate control issue.... it's a real step backwards in usability imo. I got a new three door SEAT Leon FR Sport in 2018. Loved that car! Much quicker than manufacturer recorded times and so economical I used to forget it needed petrol! Great fun to drive too!
My Leon Cupra is a weapon. Smokes most cars with less than 370bhp and handles like it's on rails. Full leather interior and panoramic roof. Sadly it's lost about 8grand in value since i have owned it and i go through £50 a night if im rallying 😂
I think personally I'd wait and see how this recession plays out before throwing down 38k on a car. Currently I drive a 440i which is a bit of a drinker but it's been reliable so far and just knowing it'll start when I turn it on and keep me safe on the road has kept me from looking at replacing it. That Leon seems to give you those same reassurances and it's a hard sell to replace something you feel you can trust to just work when you ask it to, especially when the upgrade isn't giving you much more. All the work you've done in maintenance, functional and aesthetic, has made it look and feel like a pleasant place to be.
I’m a fellow ADI and I’m in the same boat as you. I kept my old Fiesta learner car (2014 diesel) when I brought my last car (2017 Fiesta diesel) I use both of them to spread the miles so hopefully I can prolong the need to change as there nothing that’s really taken my fancy. I drove the Mazda 2 after watching your review but I found the 90bhp MHEV underpowered. I drove a Suzuki sport and liked that but the bucket seats I imagine wouldn’t be comfortable to sit in all day. I’m going to test drive the new Swift over Christmas see what that’s like as Suzuki do good deals for ADI’s
I'm starting to thing that I'll be facing a similar dilemma at some point. I have a 2015 Golf with the 2.0 diesel and I genuinely don't see why I'd spend the money upgrading at this point as the only feature I think I'd use that I don't already have would be something like lane assist. £20 road tax and decent fuel economy for my mostly longer journeys isn't to be grumbled at and I have enough power to drive like a bit of a yobbo if I want to or take gaps in traffic if I need to which is pretty nice. I've only had minor wear and tear so far and the odd electrical gremlin which I think is fine considering the age of the car. I think it's quite telling when I've been able visit friends who live in countries which don't tax older cars as highly as we do in the UK - 20+ year old cars are much more common and if you're after value then it seems like a toss up between newer budget options with rudimentary modern tech bells and whistles or older German stuff which quite frankly is still great to drive. It's confused me that my dad held onto an old Passat for so long but after getting a lift in it recently it still drives fine and my only gripe would be how the loud the engine is at motorway speeds as it only has 5 gears (his mechanic is encouraging him to run it into the ground at this point as apparently the newer ones aren't built as well and would be really pricey to upgrade to). I know there's the conversation about emissions and that but it feels wasteful to me that we need to expend resources to build new cars when there are ones which still run fine and some of which don't pollute as much as others. I'd like an EV some day for that reason but until my generation can afford homes I'll be going with what is more cost effective sadly and what I have currently fits the bill in that regard.
Own the same car, only 2.0 d, with 184 hp, and satisfyingly quick. Think it has independent rear suspension. Still love it. Not ulez free though Ps can be very economical , 58mpg
You are spot on, the 184bhp diesel and the 180bhp petrol all have independent rear suspension. Any late 2015 184bhp diesel is also a euro 6 engine so ulez compliant.
Thank you OBDeleven for sponsoring this video! Use the link below to get Winter Sale discounts of up to 23% at go.obdeleven.com/winter-sale-richard
Im sorry . I have a question. I am guessing that tge previous infotainment system was smaller in its time? Or is that not true? If it was smaller than the question is did it have to cut the interior to fit it? And who actually can do that? Thanks in advance..
A good car with a functional no-nonsense interior, as it should be.
My parents have a 2011 Leon and most of it is certainly straightforward but holy hell, the digital display in the centre has the worst user interface I've ever had to deal with. That is the primary reason I would not buy one of these for myself.
This is how you should own a car.
I have a 2006 A4 Avant. Keep up with maintenance, replace little parts that need changing.
Still drives like a dream, does all I need. No need to 'upgrade'.
A man that loves a basic interior 😂
What dreams do you have ?
@@VividBullox Have car do you have sir?
@@joshflynn2173 currently Mercedes A class but getting a 2017-2021 A5 or 5 series in the next few months
If it wasn't for low emission zones lot more people could do this
I think you should keep it and carry on, you've underlined all the reasons why replacing it with a new petrol manual car is hardly an upgrade for alot of financial cost and this car still feels fresh and does everything you want it too so I see you having it for quite a while longer.
Volkswagen Group cars can still look and feel modern after 10-15 years. You can't say the same for many other manufacturers
Toyota, Honda, Volvo, Subaru
@@lvpvsmalvm522 LOL new Toyotas, Hondas and Subarus look older than 5 year old Volkswagens/Skodas/SEATs especially on the inside. Toyotas in particular are atrocious. Volvos are nice though.
@N1ckZ My 2003 Honda Accord always gets comments on how modern it looks inside and out. It is slightly modified but nobody believes it's a 21 years old car.
N1ckZ And yet the Toyota will last twice as long and cost half as much as the equivalent German car :)
shumranskunder3334 Absolutely! I had the 2008 Accord 2.4. Looks stunning, has adaptive cruise control, back up camera, fully electric seats all for 2008! Plus that 2.4L engine is bullet proof. Can't say the same for a 2008 passat 🤣 probably half the trim will have fallen off and multiple electrical faults, lol
I wish you did car reviews. You actually talk about the things that matter rather than "soft touch plastics" on things you don't touch!
he has some reviews on this channel
The question should be "why do other people get rid of perfectly good cars within 5 years?" Modern cars even from 10-15 years ago are more reliable than ever, their interiors wear better than ever, and their tech means they don't really feel outdated. It's also far more eco-friendly to keep an older car running for as long as possible since the majority of resources used and emissions released come from its manufacture rather than from the tailpipe.
The eco friendly part is something that a lot of people say but it's also usually wrong.
If you get a new car after 5 years then you personally are less eco friendly. But, because you're selling used car at quite lower price than what new is, you are helping someone else drive something that might be quite more eco friendly than what they currently have.
@@savots3812 That makes no sense, it doesn't matter who drives the car!
It's not like they are being scrapped after five years use is it? Someone else will run it for five years, and then someone else for five years. And then I'll probably get it.
@@VictorMaxolbut for the eco part it matters that a new car has to be built to be put in the market for this person to buy it
@@peksn We should make everything as durable as possible, sorry China.
IMHO you should invest in a rust treatment and protection of this car now. Modern cars are plagued with inconvenient touch controls, distracting driver assistance/warnings that have to be turned off every drive, and higher maintenance costs associated with their greater complexity. You have found a functional, practical car for your profession that has proven its reliability, you should be keeping that going as long as economically feasible!
You can't replace it now! It wouldn't be the same car channel without it. You need to keep it forever. Pick up welding as a hobby in the meantime!
Brilliant ,rust boxes on wheels you have just mentioned the most important aspect of car longevity. Depends where you live I suppose.
Our 2003 1.9 tdi Polo Sport 😊 7:20 owned since new is approaching 262000 miles, the engine still runs sweetly. No plans to replace it.
If it's running ok why would you replace it😮😮😮😮
1.9 tdi engine is a legend.
That SEAT is beautiful, I live in Spain and I see lots of them
As a Spanish car you will defo see lots of them 🤞
I bought a 2017 model a few days after I watched your 10 year anniversary with the car. At that time I spend around 4 months looking for a car and your video was a big reason I ended up going for it. It has been great, a massive improvement over the Ford Ka I have been driving for the past 4 years.
I've recently bought a 2010 Audi A6 Avant Le Mans edition.
255,500 miles and rising.
Previous owner spared no expense in keeping it mechanically sound.
He bought it on 30,000 miles.
It's aged brilliantly too, very little interior wear, other than the driver side floor matt.
I passed my test July this year in my first car which is the MK3 Leon. Absolutely love the car 😊😊
I've had the 7.5 Golf for 4 years now - I can easily see myself owning it for the next 10 years. Golf 7 / Leon / Octavia / A3 from that period are great, especially with 1.4 TSI!
i have the same but a new turbo now its 250hp :)
It's refreshing to see someone who takes care of their car instead of treating it like a disposable appliance. I also hear what you're saying about the new trend with touchscreens replacing buttons. All that does is make the controls less intuitive.
Personally, I honestly don't understand people who change cars every few years. I currently have a Mk5 Mondeo which I bought new in 2016. I have absolutely no intention of replacing it - partly because there's nothing else on the market and in my price range that suits exactly what I want, partly because I bond with my cars emotionally and letting them go has always been incredibly difficult for me (I am not beyond spending significantly more than the car is worth in maintenance and repairs just to keep it going, and have done so with one of my older cars in the past).
Have been contemplating trading my 63 reg Leon with 94k on the clock. This video has only highlighted how good the Leon is and how fresh my car is.
I had 3x Leon's, 2x 1.6tdi 1x 1.2tsi, all dsg and did over 100k between them. Absolutely brilliant cars!
Which one accelerate better in your opinion?
@blurryface2733 the diesel, but the 1.2 tsi was far better than you would think for the size
Such an interesting video Richard. My parents were recently in the market for a new car, and quickly realised what you said here - if you have a car from around the last 10/15 years, drivetrain is probably the only reason to upgrade. They went for a PHEV, which has proven a huge difference. It's funny though, as I ended up taking their older car (sentimentality strikes!) for myself, and in many ways we've seen that the older (2008) car is better built than the newer model (2022) of the same car by the same manufacturer.
I absolutely love my mk3 Leon, only had it about 10 months but I've done 18000 miles and it's been 100% reliable! It's a 2020 year car and could have had the mk4 but this one had physical climate controls and proven reliability record!
Fellow instructor, 213k is impressive . I've been using Mini coopers, I have Bimmer code and link and a Vgate. This mini has been faultless, currently on 58k 2018 plate.
Usually I move my cars on at 100k or so. Worth a rethink as I think the Cooper 1.5 T is bullet proof. My current one is fully loaded with the JCW kit so worth keeping. As a rural instructor I probably cover more miles per pupil than most so I tend to get 3 years tops out of them.
100% peak Leon this car. New one is so blobby and disappointing - my theory is VWG got spooked they made the last Leon 'too' good, eroding into Golf and A3 sales, so they purposefully nerfed the new one a bit to make it sit as the more overtly budget option, like SEAT is meant to be. I still find the 184 FR TDI Leon of that era a genuinely desirable car after all these years!
I agree, 184 in the GTD and FR are both phenomenal cars. Great quality
which year would u say was the "too good" one?
This is a fantastic review from someone who has owned the car for so long.
I have a 2024 Seat Ibiza Fr Sport as a first car. It’s a Motability car for anyone wondering how I can afford it plus insurance. Your 10 year video on the Leon convinced me to get a Seat. I’ve had mine about a month and it’s great
If you don’t mind me asking how does the whole process of leasing a free car work? Anyone can afford most cars on road on finance really. With motability you are leasing the car and typically in a normal personal lease, you don’t pay road tax and the insurance could be lower as you are expected to return the car back. I would believe you anyway, and you haven’t said your age and these days you can pass your test in your thirties, your forties and fifties even.
There are a lot of people who don’t even drive for personal reasons, economic reasons and just straight up preference. I live in London and cars move really slow. Taking public transport can be 5-10 minutes slower than driving but you don’t have to park and can just walk to your destination. I cycle myself, it’s the fastest way to get around a city like London.
It doesn’t make financial sense to “upgrade” like Richard says as he can still teach fine in his older SEAT and I can still get around on my bike. We are both going to pay so much money on the something that basically does the same thing really. Most people buy a car to get from A-B that’s it, I can do that on my bike, check! To do the shopping, I can fit panniers, check! To go long distances, I can buy a train ticket and bring my bike along for the ride, check!
For me to buy a decent car at my age 20 living in London with everything included will be at least £7,000 to like £10,000. It’s a lot of money that I am putting into something isn’t going to benefit very much. I am considering buying a pick up truck in the near future as I will making regular trips to transport heavy goods for my business. With that I can justify paying £20,000+ for a motor vehicle as it will help me make money and will be vital for my business. This is more than twice as my budget for a private vehicle. It’s all in the benefit/cost ratio. It’s key for making good financial decisions, which many people don’t do and then cry about it. Being financially literate isn’t that difficult. Enjoy your free car, man!
@ well, I get PIP (Personal Independence Payment - made up of the daily living amount and mobility amount) each month due to being profoundly deaf so the mobility part of it goes towards the car. Tax and insurance are included as well which means my only monthly outgoing is fuel as I live at home. I’m 18 by the way so it makes financial sense with insurance and tax being included.
@@Jackfinn456 Totally I agree with you! When I was your age 18, I couldn’t afford to go near a car, even these days. Now since I got my two bikes. I’ve changed my mind. The motability scheme is very helpful for younger people like yourself who have disabilities who would very much benefit from having mobility from a car. Sometimes I don’t think it’s a bad thing that I can’t afford to drive as there are people who need to drive and right now I don’t “need” to drive. It’s a want for me. It does make total sense for you to have a car especially at your age as it isn’t easy to run cars because of the high cost of insurance. If you didn’t get a car through motability, then a car like yours would be expensive to insure due to value of it. Plus the monthly payments for the costs that typically covered by the motability scheme at your age will kill you for a car like that. Insurance is just too expensive for young people that most people are priced out or deterred by it. I’m a literal case study.
The price for new cars is so high these days. Keep your car. Keeping mine.
I went for a 1.0 tsi fabia (new car) but I intend to keep it
@x.kasiouris5503 it's not worth changing like 20y ago. Yeah you lost money but it wasn't record numbers
Bought a 63 plate Leon 1.4 TSI FR 6 speed after watching your reliability video, done 5k miles in a few months and it’s been much better than my old Fabia, currently on 110k miles and needs a bit of maintenance but nothing too major
Great video. By the way, I reckon I could listen to Richard all day so informative.
I recently got a Seat Leon SC in FR trim just like yours and as I have been talking with my friends about it I have come to the same conclusion as you have and its that I dont really see a car worth upgrading to that doesnt cost at least double or triple the money (talking second hand ofc). My friends suggest the A3 but to get an A3 that has the features my Leon has such as the full led headlights, ambient lighting, sports seats, sports suspension and such I would at least have to pay double what I paid for the Leon but Im getting the same chasis and engine and gearbox that I alredy have. (Not to mention that I also prefer the looks of the Leon). So I totally understand why you have yet to upgrade it and that brings me a lot of joy honestly to hear it from someone who knows cars and has owned one for a very long time. It confirms I have made a good decision buying one and Im looking forward to keeping it fresh and new looking just like you do with yours. And I can definately confirm what you said about the Seat Sound System. It honestly blew me away.
Anyway, I love your videos man, helped me a lot when I was just starting to drive and I have been a fan for some time so keep up the good work!
10 speakers (including the subwoofer):
1) front left midwoofer
2) front left tweeter
3) front centre midrange
4) front right midwoofer
5) front right tweeter
6) rear left midwoofer
7) rear left tweeter
8) rear right midwoofer
9) rear right tweeter
10) rear subwoofer
Had a 2018 150hp one and I loved it, had to let it go because I was mostly using the work car anyway, so couldn’t justify paying for it to just sit there.
Fun to drive, good on fuel and very practical. Would highly recommend!
Nice review Richard. I have a 2008 Leon FR as my daily car (Boxster as weekend car) that I have had from new and fancy a new 8.5 GTI but finding it hard to justify the difference in price and have gone through exactly the same thought process as you - I am attached to mine 😊
This video and your previous one talking about your car has fully convinced me to keep my Seat Leon 2018. I have a 1.4 TSI like yourself, and I learned a lot from your video as I've never used the auto climate control for example. Thanks for your previous video about your history with the car and for this one too!
I have a GTE with probably the same engine. Why isnt it good to use the auto climate?
I had one, 2.0 TDi FR, from new for 3 years. Only got rid as for a while i lived in a city centre with no need for a car. Would still have it now if not. Great car that did everything I needed. Quick, economical. And would eat long journeys up with no effort.
I had my previous Audi A6 2.0TDi for 13 years and 332,000 miles on the original engine, still running like new when I sold it. WV group cars take some beating, my present Audi A6 40TDi has done 90,000 trouble free miles so far.
Great video Richard. At this time I would never be able to keep a car for that long. I get bored of them fast and than start looking for something else.
I know the feeling because that's how I used to be. For me it's much easier to hang onto a car I bought new for a long time whereas I'm much more likely to change used cars frequently.
I’m on my third VW and my second Touran 2.0tdi. I’ve always kept my cars for about 5 years or 150,000 miles, but the current one has been so good that I’ve still got it at 236,000 miles. It’s often still clocking up 7-800 miles each week at about 50mpg. It’s been mechanically perfect and I still enjoy driving it over long distances so see no reason to replace it. I service it myself every 9,000 miles with a DSG oil and filter change every 37,000 miles. It uses no oil between services and has easily been the cheapest car I’ve ever run.
What year is it?
17:41 Well hello there Mr.Supra
I bought a 2012 bmw X1 with all original parts still bit over 2 years ago, currently at 200,000 km. Will keep it for as long as it can run, upgrading the display and interior now too.
The 1.8 is a more durable and tuneable engine, though. It has a cast iron block, which is very rare nowadays. But as you said, for day to day driving the 1.4 is the smarter choice. Also I confirm everything you said about OBDEleven, i literally coded in a rev cam to my 2014 A3 last week, worked like a charm.
Brilliant video as always! Who doesnt love a high mileage hero! I have a 2015 Leon Fr 184 for the past 4 years. Its just ticked over 145k miles and has been a brilliant car. I have no intention to change it. I think the screen in your car is from a 2015/2016 model year as from 2017 onwards the only had physical buttons on one side.
not a beginner driver, but watching some of your videos, i actually kinda started to like the little spanish Lion and did some research on those cars. Pretty much solid quality and performance cars considering how much they cost, a cheaper alternative to VW Golf equivalents. May he server you 10 more years without fail.
Ive got a mk3.5 leon 1.0 tsi 115bhp and i had a minor non fault collision, whilst the car was in the garage i was given a 2021 Mk4 leon and i absolutely hated it, the digital climate control was distracting, the car didnt look anywhere as good as mine and i was missing my climate control panel and my additional options, especially my heated seats, i bought it for £8000 2 years ago at 66,000 miles and is now sitting at a comfortable 115,000 miles! Still in love with it and dont plan on getting rid of it any time soon!
had a 2007 307 estate 1.6 hdi for 10 years, never had an issue its great plan on keeping it another 10 years i just change oil and filter twice a year very simple car easy to work on when i have to also still has its original clutch and battery
Lots of respect Richard, lots more life in cars that people think. Especially considering the learner abuse it has endured 😊😊
I'm using the FL version of an FR Mk.III Leon for food delivery in the Czech Republic. Bought her with 8 000 kilometres on the clock, no she is 140 000. Was a dream of mine to own an FR and even if I have to rebuild or to buy a new engine, she's is gonna stay with me for as long as possible.
I’ve got a 2024 SEAT Ibiza Xcellence Lux 1.0 110TSI 5-door manual. Unlike the new Leon, the new Ibiza still has a separate Climate Control which I find very easy to use. Being the top spec model, it has a reversing camera, front+rear sensors, adaptive cruise control, etc. Even with the 1 litre, it still has plenty of power. Comparing your 2014 Leon to my 2024 Ibiza, the looks, especially externally, are very similar.
I can vouch for those wheel buttons/ rollers. Had them on my Skoda Octavia.
The VW group of cars from that era has aged well. This Leon, the Skoda, Golf etc all look sharp still today
Depending on the model it might be possible to retrofit some of these features you are looking for.
Take audi for example any b9 platform can be upgraded to the b9.5 components including the mmi and instrument cluster.
Yes while some crazy upgrades such as the mmi+instrument cluster would set you back 10k due to the labour cost there are easier ones such as the matrix lights that cost 2.5k-3.5k including warranty to have done by a garage or less than a grand if you are looking for a DIY project.
Going on a forum dedicated to the car is worth gold if you are looking to keep any car for longer than 5 years.
I almost chocked when I thought you were sponsored by another OBD brand that's the biggest scam (carly) but obdeleven is really good and definitely recommended.
VAG engines of that era got a bad name, but in retrospect they were mostly great. Good compromise between mileage and long-term usability.
Most engines combined with a manual were always pretty good except for the odd oil guzzler TSI. Slushboxes always meant more expense in everyway (engine and suspension included)
We have a mk3 Leon 1.2tsi. Didnt really go out looking for one but its been excellent. Much better than I anticipated. Id probably have another when the time comes to change. No fuss or drama and no silly modern tech to annoy.
A superb car looking as good as it did when it rolled out the factory. Just upgraded my very similar Mk3 Leon to the new Mk4 one!
I have been looking at the 2021-22 1.5 TSI Seat Leon FR Hatchback version for a while, but I have read so many negative reviews regarding the infotainment system (especially controlling the AC from the screen) that it changed my mind. Such a shame... How do you find it?
I had a 2019 Leon with the 1.5 engine. Was a creaking rattling slow dog of a car and costed me so much money. Bought a e90 330i and so much happier
The car that helped all of us how to park efficiently and change lanes safely.
I drive a 2008 octavia 1.9 tdi. It's even older than this Leon yet it serves it's purpose absolutely fine. Drives well, it's reliable, economical, takes me from A to B with no issues, keeps me warm in the winter and cold in the summer, helps me move furniture and appliances when I need to. I've driven lots of rentals and newer cars and see no reason to upgrade. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Some fancy distracting gadgets and touch screen controls for basic functions like the climate control and the wipers are no reason to upgrade. Manufacturers have no significant improvements to offer aside from electric/hybrid, but that takes other considerations and depends on your budget, local regulations, local infrastructure etc.
If you have a 1.9tdi you are better off sticking to your car as long as possible, because there's almost nothing out there that will give you the same good results. Also I completely agree, as long as my car has AC and a radio I'm happy.
Thanks Richard, a very thorough and comprehensive review.
i think the golf 7 is the best car ever made: incredible reliability (220000km without anything breaking) and good smooth driving. love that car
i've had a 2013, 1.6 litre diesel ibiza since 2019, i have thought about trading it in a few times, but its just a brilliant car, i have the 5 door and i have to drive 55-60 miles a day for work with a mix of back roads and a bit of dual carriageway. the model i have only has a 5 speed gearbox, 6 speed would have been ideal for any longer journeys but the 5 speed still goes well. apart from the usual tyres and braks pads, (only had to replace discs once in my 5 years). I had the car re-mapped from 105BHP to 130BHP, which is quite possibly the best thing i could have done to the car, as the ability on back roads to over take tractors etc and get up to speed on motorway slip lanes is now pretty much effortless, aswell as made the car slightly more fuel efficient.
The only thing the car doesnt do well is short journeys, (sub 5 miles), admittedly its better now with no DPF fitted. but regular runs to work used to sort that issue out.
i'm now currently looking for something slightly larger, in regards to bootspace, so thinking leon or golf estates, but that is the only reason i would change the car.
You can put a six speed in your car fairly easily if you do your research on gearbox codes. I’ve done it to an Audi A2 and it has transformed long trunk route journeys.
@aliceshepheard-walwyn3409 from what donor vehicle did you get the gearbox from? How much did it cost you to do the work?
Very VERY nice car that SEAT - in excellent condition! I own a 2023 Volvo V60, that I plan to keep for as long as I can; its a brilliant car (my third V60☺️), and I cant stand the latest cars.
I like the content mate, keep up the good work & keep uploading new videos & on Conquer Driving 👍
I love these sorts of videos from yourself Rich! (dont forget about the GR yaris LOL)
Haha, I think that car is not something you can buy new unless you have been on a list for a while.
We went from a 14 y/o Mk2 Leon 1.4 TSI to a facelift (Mk4) Cupra Leon 1.5 eTSI DSG recently. Quite a difference and the infotainment is finally fixed. We also stayed away from the pre-facelift Mk4 Leon because of the shoddy infotainment implementation, but the new one in Cupra is good.
I've had it in a black 5 door since 2014. People still tell me all the time what a nice car I have 🤷♂️ The heater matrix is a nightmare for getting blocked with casting sand left in the engine from the factory but aside from that I'm on 100k and still going strong. The Seat leon owners club is also one of the longest established and useful/friendly clubs available. The cupra is fast af!
I had the same car as a company car. 2.0TDI 184hp. I still maintain is the perfect car. One of the few daily cars that I would buy
I have the 2014 5dr LEON 1.6 TDI variant in the same colour. Love the look for its class and definitely appreciate how economical it is (~65mpg overall).
It’s the same age as my car! 2013 focus driver here and it still drives like a dream. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Insane that cars at the same spec level 10 years later now cost 2x as much. No one is being paid 2x as much. Just absolutely absurd.
I have 2016 Toyota Auris hybrid since 2018. Bought it with 66 000 km on, it just keeps on chugging on - now with 260 000 km on the clock. No problems whatsoever.
The high price of new cars is what's making me hold on to my 2016 VW Golf plus it has done 123,000 and never let me down.
Very nice cars way better than the current model it looks so much nicer the shape and styling much better
You've replaced so much it's like Trigger's broom!
Very nice car your Leon, no signs it got outdated. I use Cupra Fr Tsi and like it very much, quite punchy and still economical🎉
All makes sense. I have a great spec 2016 F54 Clubman and I won't be changing any time soon due to the lastest car going backwards in many ways....like the touch controls you mentioned.
I got my VW Polo about 3 years. It had about 112,000 miles on it. Today it reached 120,000 miles, and my only real complaint is that the radio is almost too fiddly to use while driving. I love everything else about it. It's from 2004, so it's in that "sweet spot" (in my opinion) between modern cars with iPads for infotainment systems, and older cars where you're lucky if the heater works.
That is a quite powerful car! Mine is a bit slower with 78 HP, but it also weighs only 945 KG, so it is plenty. I get 53.6 US MPG on average. It's perfect for me! I've put 35,000 miles on it this year so far.
ayy, Richard, welcome back and Happy holidays! Hope you can sqeeze out more vids in 2025! :D
I'm glad at 18:45 you picked up on the fact that someone around 2009 clearly decided that a 6-week old infant should be able to complete an emergency stop in a family car 😂. Can't stand modern over-assisted brakes.
For VAG cars it happened much earlier than that. I remember driving a 52 plate Fabia in 2004 and finding the brakes hard to control.
Looks like new. It's served you well!
Great video as always
I have owned my 1998 gsx eclipse since I bought it brand new in 98 when I was 18 and I'm 43 now lol. I replaced the engine twice. It's my spare car now but I take it out every weekend and it's still on par with newer sports cars with a mild tune and mods.
mmm that pull at 16:05 was sick
Old Richard on the Italian tune up. Well needed
That's a good looking car , nice color, interior looks really nice , I like it
lol
What a wonderful video and how well executed.
I would say you just had described my story but just used a different brand car.
Thanks a lot. Will be sharing with my friends
No reason to replace it, if it's going just fine just as your is, you should keep it. Nice one it is too. And like the saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Hey Richard, really love your reviews. Mind doing a review on these 3 cylinder GDI engine's all companies are pushing. Preferably a KIA / Hyundai ones ?. Thanks, I know you have done the Kia Stonic but its a MildHybrid + and Auto, I would love your review on the classic ones with a manual
I've had 2 Leons, still do, ones a 14 plate (@141k) the other is the face lift 17 plate(@65k). The 17 plate is quite a lot nicer to be in than the 14 plate, especially the much bigger and faster screen with apple car play, they are both the 1.4TSI, the common thing that went was the water pump, easy and cheap repair though. I would suggest the 17 plate over the 14 because of the headlights, they are much much brighter, also they look nicer, the rear ones too. These engines are super reliable, had the walnut blast too, made it much smoother.
I had to scrap my 18 1/2 year old mk5 2.0TDI VW Golf in September due to severe subframe and sill corrosion, it was very sad getting rid of it as it was still mechanically sweet and such a fun drive. Rear subframe corroded but not seriously weakened had been advised at every MOT since February 2018, I wish we’d done more to slow down the rate of corrosion before it reached the point it did which I’m sure you will.
I actually shopped around for a mk3 Leon 1.4TSI as a replacement for my golf because of your videos about yours however ended up with a mk4 Ibiza TOCA as good condition well looked after one ata good price was only 25 miles from me (I live in the depths of Cornwall)
This car is back from when model refreshes were done for the sake of improvement unlike nowadays
Always great vids Rich! Keep up the good work.... some very well made points!
I've just ordered myself a 1 Series BMW and the only thing that was making me think twice was the climate control issue.... it's a real step backwards in usability imo.
I got a new three door SEAT Leon FR Sport in 2018. Loved that car! Much quicker than manufacturer recorded times and so economical I used to forget it needed petrol! Great fun to drive too!
First time in my UA-cam history that I've found myself so interested in the sponsor segment ... and I don't even own a car!!! 🤣
My Leon Cupra is a weapon. Smokes most cars with less than 370bhp and handles like it's on rails. Full leather interior and panoramic roof. Sadly it's lost about 8grand in value since i have owned it and i go through £50 a night if im rallying 😂
In my experience in the uk daily drivers are about done around 15 years regardless of mileage. Road salt gets the subframes eventually.
I think personally I'd wait and see how this recession plays out before throwing down 38k on a car. Currently I drive a 440i which is a bit of a drinker but it's been reliable so far and just knowing it'll start when I turn it on and keep me safe on the road has kept me from looking at replacing it. That Leon seems to give you those same reassurances and it's a hard sell to replace something you feel you can trust to just work when you ask it to, especially when the upgrade isn't giving you much more. All the work you've done in maintenance, functional and aesthetic, has made it look and feel like a pleasant place to be.
Nothing is gonna make the car manufacturers lower their prices, their margin is not high enough
Because it looks absolutely gorgeous
I’m a fellow ADI and I’m in the same boat as you. I kept my old Fiesta learner car (2014 diesel) when I brought my last car (2017 Fiesta diesel) I use both of them to spread the miles so hopefully I can prolong the need to change as there nothing that’s really taken my fancy. I drove the Mazda 2 after watching your review but I found the 90bhp MHEV underpowered. I drove a Suzuki sport and liked that but the bucket seats I imagine wouldn’t be comfortable to sit in all day. I’m going to test drive the new Swift over Christmas see what that’s like as Suzuki do good deals for ADI’s
I'm starting to thing that I'll be facing a similar dilemma at some point. I have a 2015 Golf with the 2.0 diesel and I genuinely don't see why I'd spend the money upgrading at this point as the only feature I think I'd use that I don't already have would be something like lane assist. £20 road tax and decent fuel economy for my mostly longer journeys isn't to be grumbled at and I have enough power to drive like a bit of a yobbo if I want to or take gaps in traffic if I need to which is pretty nice. I've only had minor wear and tear so far and the odd electrical gremlin which I think is fine considering the age of the car.
I think it's quite telling when I've been able visit friends who live in countries which don't tax older cars as highly as we do in the UK - 20+ year old cars are much more common and if you're after value then it seems like a toss up between newer budget options with rudimentary modern tech bells and whistles or older German stuff which quite frankly is still great to drive. It's confused me that my dad held onto an old Passat for so long but after getting a lift in it recently it still drives fine and my only gripe would be how the loud the engine is at motorway speeds as it only has 5 gears (his mechanic is encouraging him to run it into the ground at this point as apparently the newer ones aren't built as well and would be really pricey to upgrade to).
I know there's the conversation about emissions and that but it feels wasteful to me that we need to expend resources to build new cars when there are ones which still run fine and some of which don't pollute as much as others. I'd like an EV some day for that reason but until my generation can afford homes I'll be going with what is more cost effective sadly and what I have currently fits the bill in that regard.
I had a MK2 FR 170 TDI for 10 years and 120k. Great car
Own the same car, only 2.0 d, with 184 hp, and satisfyingly quick. Think it has independent rear suspension. Still love it. Not ulez free though
Ps can be very economical , 58mpg
You are spot on, the 184bhp diesel and the 180bhp petrol all have independent rear suspension. Any late 2015 184bhp diesel is also a euro 6 engine so ulez compliant.
I can hear the bumps from the FR harsh suspension over the potholes, some people wont call it comfortable.
I've always found it very comfortable. Not a huge difference from my friends G30 5 series.