Seat ->ke80 will expand the Leon lineup->ke316 with the addition of a new ST version. The model will be unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show->ke235, and Seat will put it on sale later in 2013.

The third member of the Leon family -- next to the Leon and Leon SC -- is defined by youthful, dynamic design and sporty characteristics, and in the same time it offers a capacity of 587 liters (20.73 cubic-feet) of cargo room, which is expandable to 1,470 liters (51.9 cubic-feet) with the rear-seat backrests folded.

The new ST version will feature the same design language as its hatchback sibling, except, of course, the rear end that was extended by 27 cm (10.62 inches). Despite its increased dimensions, the new Leon ST is just 45 kg (99 pounds) heavier than its five-door sibling, making it the lightest estate in its class.

The ST version will adopt the fuel-efficient TDI and TSI engine lineup from the hatchback variant and all the technology features.

Click past the jump to read more about the Seat Leon ST.

2013 Seat Leon ST

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Seat Leon ST
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 86
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The new Leon ST continues to offer the same "emotional" characteristic Seat design language, with sculpted lines running the entire length of the station wagon. Up front, you will notice the same full-LED headlamps combined with ACC proximity radar and DCC variable damper adjustment.

When compared to its hatchback brother, the new ST version features a rear end that Seat extended by 27 cm (10.62 inches) combined with an angled rear windscreen, gently rounded roofline and muscular shoulders. The taillights also offer LED technology.

With a total weight of just 1,233 kg (2,718 pounds) -- or 45 kg (99 pounds) more than the five-door version -- the new Leon ST is the lightest estate in its class.

Interior

The interior also offers the same features as the hatchback version, including the Seat Easy Connect operating system for the control of entertainment and communication, as well as a wide range of vehicle functions. As standard features, the new Leon ST offers a touch-sensitive screen in the cockpit up to 5.8 inches in size.

Drivetrain

Under the hood, the Seat Leon ST features the same engine lineup as the hatchback version, which includes a wide range of gasoline and diesel variants. The base model makes use of a 1.2-liter TSI engine that comes in two versions: 86 and 105 horsepower. Next there is a 1.4-liter TSI that delivers a total of 122 horsepower, or 140 horsepower. In the FR version, Seat includes a 1.8-liter TSI engine that delivers a total of 180 horsepower.

The diesel lineup includes a 1.6-liter TDI with 90 horsepower and a 2.0-liter TDI offered in two versions: 150 horsepower and one 184 horsepower.

Suspension and Brakes

The Leon ST offers the same suspension and steering system as the hatchback version. The most impressive technologies are offered in the FR version, where Seat installed the latest generation of its Adaptive Chassis Control DCC with three different driving modes: Sport, Comfort or Eco.

There is also an Adaptive Cruise Control ACC system that maintains the specified speed and a pre-set distance.

Prices

Prices for the new Seat Leon ST will be announced at a later date.

Competition

Volkswagen Golf Variant

The seventh-generation Golf Variant was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and, as its hatchback sibling it will be lighter, offers an improved design language and a more economic engine lineup.

Under the hood, the new Golf Variant keeps the same engine lineup offered by the hatchback version. There are gasoline engines with power ranging from 85 to 140 horsepower and diesel engines ranging from 105 to 150 horsepower.

Honda Civic Wagon

The new-generation Honda Civic Tourer was first previewed at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The production version is expected to arrive in early 2014, just in time to compete with the new Leon ST.

The upcoming wagon will look pretty much identical to the sedan version except for a swooping roofline, bulging wheel arches, a roof-rack, and its capability to accommodate more luggage.

Conclusion

As the Seat Leon is one of the most successful hatchbacks on the European market, Seat's decision to also offer a station wagon version comes as no surprise: it will offer families looking for a sporty ride the possibility to also opt for style and sporty ride.