But regular passenger Samuel Lolenga said the journey was generally not too bad outside rush hour.
“To travel from Manchester to Leeds isn’t too bad, depending on the time that you’re going,” he said.
“Sometimes it is so packed you’ve got to be stood up – and obviously that isn’t ideal.
“But apart from that, it tends to be pretty good, I think.”
Alex Robertson, Chief Executive of independent watchdog Transport Focus, said the investment would improve reliability.
“Passengers travelling across the North will welcome investment in newer trains that promise more reliable journeys, extra seats, improved accessibility, and better onboard facilities,” Robertson said.
“The key test will be whether these plans deliver the punctual, dependable service that passengers need and expect every day, and whether the benefits are felt by the people who rely on the railway across the region.”