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.
£8,450
SEAT Leon
2016 - 2.0 TDI 184 FR 5dr [Technology Pack]
£8,995
SEAT Leon
2016 - 1.4 EcoTSI 150 FR 5dr [Technology Pack]
£6,950
SEAT Leon
2014 - 2.0 TDI 184 FR 3dr [Technology Pack]
£16,298
SEAT Leon
2019 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 Xcellence Lux [EZ] 5dr DSG
£12,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR [EZ] 5dr
£12,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 FR [EZ] 5dr
£6,995
SEAT Leon
2016 - 2.0 TDI 184 FR 3dr DSG [Technology Pack]
£5,795
SEAT Leon
2017 (67) - 1.2 TSI SE Dynamic Technology Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£15,790
SEAT Leon
2022 - 1.0 TSI EVO SE Dynamic 5dr
£6,495
SEAT Leon
2015 - 1.6 TDI 110 SE 5dr [Technology Pack]
£17,750
SEAT Leon
2022 (22) - Leon 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5Dr Hatch
£14,965
SEAT Leon
2021 (21) - 1.4 eHybrid FR 5dr DSG Hatchback
£9,950
SEAT Leon
2016 (16) - 2.0 TSI Cupra Sport Coupe Euro 6 (s/s) 3dr
£9,295
SEAT Leon
2019 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR ST 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (150 ps)
£9,495
SEAT Leon
2018 - 1.4 TSI 125 FR Technology 5dr
£10,495
SEAT Leon
2016 (16) - 1.4 EcoTSI FR DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£12,498
SEAT Leon
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO SE Dynamic [EZ] 5dr
£16,495
SEAT Leon
2021 - 1.4 eHybrid 12.8kWh XCELLENCE Lux DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£16,450
SEAT Leon
2022 - 1.5 TSI EVO FR 5dr
£12,599
SEAT Leon
2018 - 2.0 TSI FR Sport ST 5dr Petrol DSG Euro 6 (s/s) (190 ps)
£17,995
SEAT Leon
2023 - Tsi Evo Fr 5-Door
£9,799
SEAT Leon
2019 (19) - 1.5 TSI EVO FR Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£13,995
SEAT Leon
2020 - TSI EVO FR BLACK EDITION 5-Door