Not content with winning the Dunlop MSA BTCC Manufacturers’ Championship this year, SEAT is proving its sporty credentials yet again, with the availability of the advanced DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) on petrol FR versions of both the Leon and Altea.

DSG, already offered with 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS Stylance versions of both the Leon and Altea, delivers performance-oriented split-second ratio changes, as well as the convenience of two pedals for city driving.  However, FR models also benefit from steering wheel-mounted paddle shift controls, for even more of a ‘Formula Racing’ feel.

DSG features two wet plate-type clutches, one engaging the odd-numbered ratios, the other dealing with the evens.  This means that when, for example, the car is in second gear, third has already been engaged and is ready to be activated in a fraction of a second.  The results are ultra quick changes, with no loss in performance or economy compared with the manual versions – in fact, the 0 to 62 mph times for both models are actually slightly faster with DSG.