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.
£1,990
SEAT Leon
2009 (59) - 1.9 TDI S 5dr [90] !! GREAT PD ENGINE BULLETPROOF !!! 12 MTHS MOT
£15,990
SEAT Leon
2023 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5dr
£6,495
SEAT Leon
2015 (15) - 1.2 TSI SE Sport Tourer Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£16,195
SEAT Leon
2022 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5dr
£5,489
SEAT Leon
2014 - TDI SE TECHNOLOGY DSG 5-Door
£4,495
SEAT Leon
2015 (15) - 1.6 TDI CR SE Sport Coupe Euro 5 (s/s) 3dr
£15,895
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG
£7,000
SEAT Leon
2018 - ** 1.6 TDI SE Dynamic Technology ** 5-Door
£16,895
SEAT Leon
2018 - 2.0 TSI Cupra 300 3dr DSG
£13,295
SEAT Leon
2021 (21) - 1.4 eHybrid 12.8kWh XCELLENCE DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£1,995
SEAT Leon
2009 (59) - 1.9 TDI BTCC KIT 5dr
£15,995
SEAT Leon
2018 - TSI Cupra 300 5-Door
£26,198
SEAT Leon
2024 - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG
£26,198
SEAT Leon
2024 - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG
£10,300
SEAT Leon
2015 (15) - 1.4 TSI ACT FR Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£8,499
SEAT Leon
2018 - TSI SE DYNAMIC TECHNOLOGY 5-Door
£8,495
SEAT Leon
2017 - 1.2 Tsi Se Dynamic Technology Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 s/s 110 Ps
£2,489
SEAT Leon
2014 (64) - 1.6 TDI CR SE Sport Tourer Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr
£29,295
SEAT Leon
2024 - 1.5 eTSI 115 SE Dynamic 5dr DSG [DAP]
£2,500
SEAT Leon
2009 (59) - 1.4 16V S Euro 4 5dr
£7,248
SEAT Leon
2016 (65) - 1.4 TSI 125 SE 3dr [Technology Pack]