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.
£2,290
SEAT Leon
2007 (57) - 2.0 TDI FR Euro 4 5dr
£9,995
SEAT Leon
2018 - 1.4 Leon FR Technology TSi 5dr
£10,000
SEAT Leon
2018 - 1.6 TDI SE Dynamic 5dr
£9,495
SEAT Leon
2018 - 1.2 TSI SE Dynamic Technology 5-Door
£4,995
SEAT Leon
2016 (16) - TSI SE DYNAMIC TECHNOLOGY 5DR
£7,999
SEAT Leon
2014 (64) - 2.0 TDI X-PERIENCE SE Technology Sport Tourer 5dr Diesel Manual 4WD Euro 6
£2,950
SEAT Leon
2009 (59) - 1.6 S Emocion 5dr
£7,995
SEAT Leon
2016 (16) - 1.2 TSI SE Dynamic Technology Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£13,300
SEAT Leon
2021 (70) - 1.0 TSI EVO SE Dynamic Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (110 ps)
£12,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO SE [EZ] 5dr
£12,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO SE [EZ] 5dr
£11,095
SEAT Leon
2017 - 1.0 TSI Ecomotive SE Technology ST 5dr Petrol DSG Euro 6 (s/s) (115 ps)
£8,249
SEAT Leon
2014 (64) - 1.4 TSI SE Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£15,698
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.0 TSI EVO SE Dynamic 5dr
£13,500
SEAT Leon
2019 (69) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (130 ps)
£12,750
SEAT Leon
2020 (70) - 1.0 TSI SE [EZ] 5dr
£7,436
SEAT Leon
2020 (20) - SE DYNAMIC 1.6TDI 115PS 5 DOOR HATCHBACK (EURO 6)
£6,995
SEAT Leon
2014 - TDI SE TECHNOLOGY DSG 3-Door
£11,399
SEAT Leon
2018 (68) - 1.6 TDI SE Dynamic ST Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£12,850
SEAT Leon
2018 (68) - 1.4 EcoTSI 150 FR Technology 5dr Petrol Hatchback
£9,480
SEAT Leon
2014 (64) - 1.4 TSI FR Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr
£6,800
SEAT Leon
2014 (14) - 1.2 TSI SE Sport Tourer DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£9,650
SEAT Leon
2018 (68) - 1.0 TSI SE Dynamic Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr