FROM high performance flying machine, the Cupra, to super frugal family hatchback, one thing the SEAT Leon retains in all its guises is eye-catching sporty styling.

The styling on the latest model is the best by far with with a low slung sleek profile, attractive light clusters front and back and ultra-stylish alloy wheels.

It is shorter than its predecessor, but offers space for rear passengers while stowage space has also been increased. It needs to be good in a fiercely competitive sector of the market that includes competitors like Vauxhall Astra, Citroën C4, Renault Mégane, Peugeot 308, Mazda3 and the Toyota Auris

But it's more than just flashiness and glitz. Like its stablemates in the VW group if features a range of efficient, low carbon emission engines that appeal to both business and private users.

The 1.6-litre, 105ps turbo diesel engine is a prime example. It has enough power, but returns excellent economy figures a massive, if slightly optimistic 73.5mpg.

Even better, with CO2 emissions at 99g/km it is exempt from road fund duty and places it in one of the lowest benefit in kind tax category for business users.

There is a downside, don't expect a flying machine, but it is lively enough for most everyday needs and visits to the fuel pumps will be few and far between. It pulls well and is mated to a five-speed box with longe ratios for extra ecnomy.

The interior is just as smart as the outside with clever ergonomic design and a loads of standard equipment, even on the entry model.

It is functional rather than luxury, but still retains a sporty atmosphere.

It features nice soft touch materials on doors and dash, even if some plastics feel a bit low rent, but it has and eye-catching dials and switchgear and on this SE version they are all set off with neat chrome detailing.

A touch screen infotainment screen sits in the centre of the dashboard and the display changes to what you want as your fingers approaches it.

It feels well engineered and well put together.

The Leon seats four adults in comfort and despite its rakish profile, headroom is pretty good and rear passengers were more than comfortable with the legroom with good access through the rear doors.

As a family hatchback practicality must be a given and the Leon offers excellent boot space of 380 litres of space which opens up when the 60/40 split rear seats are folded.

In addition there are a number of drink holders, side pocket and oddment storage bins throughout.

The car looks sporty and handles well. It feels nimble and agile on corners while the ride is comfortable enough.

Even base models are well equipped, but the this one has smart and sporty 16-inch alloys, electric windows and door mirrors, plus air con and Bluetooth, an MP3-compatible six-speaker CD player and that colour touch-screen infotainment system.

For safety is scores five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests and includes front, side and head airbags, electronic stability programme and emergency brake assistance with ABS and traction control