‘My car’s luscious Desire Red paintwork is reminiscent of the better Ferrari colours’

I’ve chosen the mid-range and pretty opulent VZ2 trim. Its kit list includes 19in alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, a 10.0in infotainment touchscreen with smartphone integration, a rear-view camera and front and rear parking sensors. On top of that, you get sporty bucket seats, a neat perforated and flat-bottomed steering wheel and chrome and copper detailing, as well as a Dynamic and Comfort Pack, which is high-falutin’ speak for adjustable suspension and steering that reacts quicker the farther you turn the wheel.

I’ve added a couple of options, too. For starters, I couldn’t resist the metallic Desire Red paintwork, a luscious shade reminiscent of the better Ferrari colours. Then there’s the Safety and Driving Pack, which adds a road sign display, high beam assist and adaptive cruise control. All that adds up to an on-theroad price of £36,605, including the options, or £35,575 without, which is more than £2000 less than the Golf GTI Clubsport – a saving that puts the Leon at an immediate advantage over its close relative.

First impressions are definitely favourable. The driving position is spot on, the steering wheel feels good in my hands and the driver’s seat grips in all the right places. I love the distinctive hexagonal pattern on the front grille, air vents and door mirrors too, echoing as they do the design details used on various Lamborghinis over the years.

Better still, the Leon’s steering is light and quick, and it responds to the accelerator pedal with alacrity. In the Comfort setting on its adaptive suspension, it even seems to ride well. Oh yes, it’s no mystery why I’m looking forward to the months ahead.