The Seat Leon is a mid-size hatchback that’s notable for its sleek design and value for money. It’s practical enough for families and it’s enjoyable to drive, giving you a good mix of fun and comfort. Most models have high-tech equipment, while there’s a usefully spacious estate model and a high-performance Cupra version that’s thrilling to drive.
The latest Leon was launched in 2020, replacing a version that was sold new from 2013–2020. Both cars are available as a five-door hatchback or as an estate (now called Leon Estate, but previously known as Leon ST). The 2013 version is also available as a three-door hatchback called SC and as an X-Perience model that has SUV-style additions.
You can get petrol or diesel engines in both versions of the Leon. The latest is also available with mild- and plug-in hybrid power. If you want an automatic gearbox or ‘4Drive’ four-wheel drive, you’ll find options in the Leon range.
There are many models to choose from. The well-equipped, mid-level SE and sporty Seat Leon FR are the most popular. The top-spec Xcellence has a more luxurious feel. The high-performance Cupra is surprisingly plush and has lots of tech, too.
All but the most basic S model come very well equipped. From the next model up – SE – all Leons have air con, cruise control and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. Many have sat nav, too. Xcellence and Cupra models get plush heated seats and even more tech. The latest Leon has more up-to-date tech and bigger displays, including a large one for the driver.
Any Leon is great value for money, offering similar space, style and tech to most rivals but at a lower cost than many. Every engine is very fuel efficient. According to official figures, petrol models of the older Leon can give fuel economy of 38-58mpg, and diesels can give 64-70mpg. For the latest Leon, the figures are 48-52mpg (petrol) and 67mpg (diesel). The plug-in hybrid can give up to 235mpg and has a zero-emissions range of up to 40 miles.
Other mid-size hatchbacks include the Ford Focus, BMW 1 Series and Volkswagen Golf. The Leon is a great alternative to those cars, offering you style, value, a great driving experience and a wide range of models to choose from.
Looking for a hatchback? Here’s our guide to the best used hatchbacks around.
£17,990
SEAT Leon
2022 (22) - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR Sport 5dr
£16,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 Xcellence Lux [EZ] 5dr DSG
£5,195
SEAT Leon
2017 - TSI SE Dynamic Technology 5-Door
£11,995
SEAT Leon
2020 (70) - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR 5dr
£21,549
SEAT Leon
2019 - 2.0 TSI 290 Cupra [EZ] 5dr DSG
£21,990
SEAT Leon
2023 (73) - 1.4 eHybrid Xcellence Lux 5dr DSG
£15,998
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 Xcellence [EZ] 5dr DSG
£1,650
SEAT Leon
2009 (09) - 1.6 S 5dr
£8,350
SEAT Leon
2019 (69) - TSI EVO SE DYNAMIC 5-Door
£18,476
SEAT Leon
2020 - 2.0 TSI 290 Cupra [EZ] DSG 5-Door
£9,895
SEAT Leon
2016 - 1.4 EcoTSI 150 FR 3dr [Technology Pack]
£14,000
SEAT Leon
2017 - 2.0 TSI CUPRA 300 DSG 3-Door
£15,900
SEAT Leon
2019 (19) - 2.0 TSI Cupra 300 ST 5dr Petrol DSG 7 Spd 4Drive Euro 6 (s/s) (300 ps)
£13,860
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG
£1,999
SEAT Leon
2010 (60) - 1.6 TDI CR SE 5dr
£6,490
SEAT Leon
2016 (16) - 2.0 TDI FR Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£7,450
SEAT Leon
2013 (63) - 2.0 TDI 184 FR 3dr [Technology Pack]...Virtual Cockpit Upgrade
£9,800
SEAT Leon
2019 - 1.5 Leon FR TSI Evo 5dr
£14,695
SEAT Leon
2022 - 1.5 eTSI 150 FR 5dr DSG
£28,495
SEAT Leon
2025 (25) - 1.5 e-Hybrid FR Sport 5dr DSG [DAP]
£10,400
SEAT Leon
2022 (71) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Estate 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (130 ps)
£13,500
SEAT Leon
2018 - 2.0 TDI 184 FR Technology 5dr