Why is the ride on our Seat Leon FR so hard?
We took delivery of a 2015 plate Leon Hatchback 150 TSI FR yesterday. Before buying it, we had test drives in the ST and hatchback in an identical spec except for the wheels, which were 18-inch on the hatch and 17s on the ST. We found the ride comfort on the ST was significantly better than the hatch; however, the dealer said the suspension on both vehicles was identical and the only difference was the wheels. We chose the hatch, but it was agreed to fit the 17-inch wheels from the ST - we expected the ride comfort to be improved by changing from the bigger wheels, but it is not noticeably any better.
This has lead me to query the statements made that the suspension set up is identical. Do you know if the suspension is the same, and if it is, are there other differences that would make the ST more comfortable - or are we just imagining it?
This has lead me to query the statements made that the suspension set up is identical. Do you know if the suspension is the same, and if it is, are there other differences that would make the ST more comfortable - or are we just imagining it?
Asked on 18 November 2016 by Mike Swingler
Answered by
Honest John
Two different types of suspension are fitted. The harder riding, cruder suspension is a simple twist-beam. But sportier models have fully independent rear suspension that offers much better ride quality, even with 18-inch wheels. It's possible that which models get the better suspension may have changed. Have a look underneath. The other thing to do is check the tyre pressures. Often cars do not go through a proper pre-delivery inspection and are delivered to customers on storage pressure tyres set at 40PSI. I run standard hatchbacks and small SUVs at 30PSI - 31PSI cold pressures to get the best comfort, quietness and steering feel. In use, the tyres heat up and the pressures rise by 2 - 4PSI.
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