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.
£7,495
SEAT Leon
2017 (67) - 1.4 ECOTSI XCELLENCE TECHNOLOGY DSG 5d 148 BHP 5-Door
£13,600
SEAT Leon
2014 (64) - 2.0 TSI Cupra 280 Hatchback 5dr Petrol DSG Euro 6 (s/s) (280 ps)
£8,495
SEAT Leon
2017 (67) - 2.0 TDI 184 Xcellence Technology 5dr DSG
£12,995
SEAT Leon
2018 (67) - 2.0 TSI Cupra 300 Sport Coupe 3dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (300 ps)
£11,699
SEAT Leon
2021 (21) - EHYBRID DSG FR 5-Door
£14,777
SEAT Leon
2022 - 1.4 Leon Xcellence Luxury PHEV Semi-Auto 5dr
£9,699
SEAT Leon
2020 (69) - 1.0 TSI SE Dynamic [EZ] 5dr
£15,491
SEAT Leon
2020 (20) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Black Edition Hatchback 5dr Petrol DSG Euro 6 (s/s) (150 ps)
£20,690
SEAT Leon
2025 (25) - 1.5 eTSI 115 SE Dynamic 5dr DSG (DAP)
£15,990
SEAT Leon
2021 (21) - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR Sport 5dr
£9,999
SEAT Leon
2017 (17) - 2.0 TDI FR Technology ST 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (184 ps)
£14,990
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR 5dr
£20,490
SEAT Leon
2023 - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG Auto
£13,700
SEAT Leon
2021 (21) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Sport Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£11,400
SEAT Leon
2019 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 Xcellence 5dr - MOT'D TO MARCH 2027, REAR CAMERA w/ FRONT &
£13,795
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5dr
£19,499
SEAT Leon
2023 - Estate FR Sport 1.0 Hybrid Auto 5-Door
£14,900
SEAT Leon
2021 (71) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£6,995
SEAT Leon
2018 (18) - 1.6 TDI SE Technology 5dr
£15,990
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5dr
£14,100
SEAT Leon
2020 (20) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Black Edition Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr