SEAT has carved out a niche for stylish, sporty and not expensive cars, and the Leon ST adds a further dimension - space.

The estate version of the Leon offers from 587 litres with the rear seats in use to 1,470 litres with them folded down.

This capacity and the low loading, sensibly lined and fitted cargo-bed means you have a car which doubles as a practical hold-all as well as being a performance machine in the FR2.0 specification.

In common with the SEAT range, the Leon ST FR2.0 is at the top of an extensive line-up running to a dozen combinations of engines and gearboxes including manual, automatics, petrol and diesels from 1.2-litres to 2.0-litres. Truly, something for everyone.

Fitting the beefy 184ps engine into the ST means you have a model which is designed to cover high mileages without any effort, at low cost and which is capable of carrying a lot of kit if you need to do that.

There's a slight hesitation moving off but once underway the power floods out with 280lb/ft of torque at just 1,750rpm and with the standard six-speed manual gearbox - automatic is available - it swiftly covers ground.

There is some engine noise at higher revs but it's not excessive or intrusive and you can quietly cruise all day at the motorway limit and its fairly economical overall, averaging 46mpg on test, some way off the claimed combined figure.

When you are in town or country, the clutch is smooth, progressive and the gear-lever has a short throw and is precise in action.

I liked the powerful brakes and the precision of the steering as well as the small turning circle. Secondary controls are neatly laid out and easy to use, the instruments are not large but clear and the warning lights are bright.

Standard dual-zone climate control works well with straightforward switches, a wide range and effective settings, and you have the benefit of four powered windows in the FR and a £700 electric sunroof if you want to buy it.

To the usual Leon selectable driver profile settings for the engine management system, the FR adds firmer sports suspension, but it's not a bone-shaker, rather a sportier edge.

It really handles very well. Access is good, the FR cloth-covered seats are more figure hugging and leather highlighted with additional side supports and you feel well looked after in the Leon.

Adjustment range is good, the visibility is clear with good powerful lights and big wipers, and helped by parking sensors, and overall room is good for a family car.

The SEAT Leon ST FR2.0 TDI is a genuine all-rounder which blends purpose with performance and a sprinkling of panache.