Improved equipment levels and keen pricing promise to play a key role in turning the latest version of a popular Seat family car into a more tempting proposition in the fleet sector.

As the Spanish firm’s first C-segment model to embrace coupé and estate versions, the new Leon is about to get the wider base of appeal it needs to continue an impressive expansion in sales over the past four years.

For the moment, however, the third-generation hatchback is billed as a leader in its class and we’re putting the claim under scrutiny by adding the new car to our long-term test fleet.

Our 1.6 TDI SE is the model most suited to fleet use. In standard trim, it stands on 16-inch alloy wheels and boasts height and reach adjustable steering, air conditioning, cruise control, hill-hold, a handy centre adjustable armrest with a storage box underneath and a driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment.

As part of the new model launch offer, our car has LED headlights, digital radio and satellite navigation – initially packaged at the reduced price of £500 but now offered free until the end of September.

It also comes with tiredness recognition (£115), rain-sensing wipers and auto rear mirror (£100) and front and rear parking sensors with an optical display (£430), making it particularly well equipped.

With 1,900 miles on the clock, the TDI motor spins freely, pulling away with vigour.

From a cold start, it’s clear that a diesel engine lies under the bonnet, but the clatter soon dies away as the speed rises to make progress generally subdued.