Cupra Leon Review 2024
Cupra Leon At A Glance
Strong performance. Interior is spacious and well-made. Generous level of standard equipment. Good value for money.
Less exciting than previous versions. Touchscreen infotainment system is difficult to use. Fastest models are expensive to run.
Previous Cupra-branded Leons were often the wildest hot hatchbacks in the Volkswagen Group stable. Now, with a move upmarket, the latest Cupra Leon has become more mature – and closer to rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Skoda Octavia vRS. To prove how sensible the new Leon is, you can even choose a plug-in hybrid version.
It has been several years since Cupra became a standalone performance brand, after years of being the badge for the most hardcore SEAT models. The Leon is the first hot hatchback (and estate) to receive the official Cupra treatment, making it a significant car.
Previous Cupra-badged Leons were typically unrelenting to drive, with a single-minded focus on performance. However, with Cupra now a brand in its own right, cars like the Leon have to offer a wider appeal.
This means the Cupra Leon is offered with a host of engine options, including a plug-in hybrid. At the bottom of the ladder, the ‘mild’ engines are taken directly from the regular SEAT Leon range: a 150PS 1.5-litre TSI and a 190PS 2.0 TSI (both petrol). Although these are fine in isolation, they do not live up to the expectations created by the Cupra brand.
Further up the range, the Cupra Leon is more like the hardcore offering enthusiasts were familiar with. The Cupra 300 hatchback is a thinly disguised version of the Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport, while the all-wheel-drive Cupra 310 Estate owes much to the Volkswagen Golf R. These are far more in keeping with the Cupra name.
A plug-in hybrid is also part of the range, with low Benefit-in-Kind company car tax rates that will appeal to fleet drivers. It can travel almost 40 miles on electric power alone, with a 245PS output delivering Cupra-worthy levels of performance.
As part of the more grown-up mindset, Cupra has also tailored the Leon’s ride and handling to be more forgiving. Most trim levels include the useful adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control, which offers near-endless scope for suspension damper tuning. Avoid the stiffest setting and the Leon remains compliant on rough tarmac.
The Leon’s steering is light, even with Cupra mode engaged, and precise enough for sporty driving. Just do not expect too much in the way of feedback or fun.
On the inside, the Cupra Leon delivers a surprising amount of practicality, aided by a large amount of rear legroom. Boot space in non-hybrid hatches is competitive, at 380 litres, while the estate boasts up to 620 litres of luggage capacity with the rear seats up.
Cupra has also upgraded the Leon’s interior with fancy copper detailing, sports seats and a wealth of standard equipment. Satellite navigation, three-zone climate control,and a rear-view camera are fitted to all models.
It all goes towards justifying the price tag that has become closer to its key rivals. However, much of this technology has to be accessed through a frustrating infotainment system.
Unlike some of its predecessors, the Cupra Leon is now a fairly sensible performance car. With strong levels of standard equipment, it still delivers on value, and the practical interior makes it viable for families. Everyone has to grow up at some point, and perhaps this even applies to hot hatchbacks.
Reviews for Cupra Leon's top 3 rivals
Inside of the Cupra Leon
- Boot space is 270–620 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4398–4657 mm |
| Width | 1992 mm |
| Height | 1432–1444 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2683–2685 mm |
Cupra Leon 2024: Practicality
Practicality might not be the first consideration for a fast family car, but the Cupra Leon delivers it anyway. The latest Leon is noticeably larger than its predecessor, with much of that extra space translated into extra rear legroom. A definite bonus for families.
Front-seat passengers are also well catered for, with plenty of adjustment possible. V1-spec models have regular sports seats, while other versions have chunkier, bucket-style seats.
The hatchback offers 380 litres of boot space with the rear seats in use, although hybrid models reduce capacity to only 270 litres. In both cases, this is similar to a Volkswagen Golf GTI, but smaller than a Skoda Octavia vRS.
For those who need extra practicality, the Cupra Leon Estate is a better bet. Most models serve up a healthy 620 litres of cargo capacity with the back seats up, with the e-Hybrid providing 470 litres. The Cupra Leon wagon also comes with a sliding boot load cover, plus gloss black roof rails on VZ2 versions and above.
Unusually for a modern car, a space-saver spare wheel is standard on non-hybrid VZ2 and VZ3 Leons.
Cupra Leon 2024: Quality and finish
SEAT (and Cupra, by extension) has typically been at the lower end of the Volkswagen Group hierarchy when it comes to interior quality. This is not the case with the new Leon, which boasts a cabin that looks and feels similar to the latest Volkswagen Golf.
There are plenty of soft-touch materials on most of the interior parts you can see, and copper detailing helps lift the overall ambience. Wraparound LED lighting, which circles the top of the dashboard, is a neat feature on higher-grade models, although some might find it distracting. It can be turned off, anyway.
Plush leather upholstery is fitted to VZ3-spec cars, with the optional Petrol Blue colour a standout feature.
Cupra Leon 2024: Infotainment
All Cupra Leons come with a 12.0-inch multimedia touchscreen display, responsible for controlling almost every interior function. It is similar to that found in other Volkswagen Group products – and results in the same level of frustration.
Beyond a row of touch-sensitive (but not backlit) sliders for the climate control air-con, changing almost every setting requires going through multiple sub-menus. Even with time, the layout isn’t intuitive, and having to swipe through folders to change the driving mode is annoying in a hot hatch like the Leon.
Top-spec Leon Estates in 310PS trim get a steering wheel with ‘satellite buttons’. This allows the driving modes to be changed without having to navigate touchscreen menus, at least. It’s just a shame other models don’t come with this feature included.
At least the standard Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard offers plenty of customisable views. Voice commands can be used, if you fancy shouting ‘Hola, Hola’ every time you need to change the cabin temperature…
Satellite navigation, DAB radio, smartphone connectivity and USB-C ports are included on all Cupra Leon model grades.
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Cupra Leon 2024: Prices
With a broad range of Cupra Leon models now on offer, there is a model to suit almost every budget. The entry-level Cupra Leon V1 hatch is priced from around £30,500, with the 1.5 TSI engine and six-speed manual gearbox. This is about what Volkswagen would charge for a comparable Golf R-Line, but the Leon has more power and a better specification.
Moving up to truly rapid Cupra Leons obviously requires a larger investment. The Golf GTI-inspired 2.0 TSI 245 in VZ2 trim costs from just under £36,000. Topping the hatchback range is the £42,000 2.0 TSI 300 VZ3, with the 310PS Leon Estate requiring close to £45,000.
All versions are well equipped as standard, but the options list can push the price up rapidly. In reality, the factory specification is more than enough – even in V1 trim.
Cupra Leon 2024: Running Costs
As a more affordable alternative to a Volkswagen Golf GTI or Audi S3, buyers will be looking to the Cupra Leon to offer cheaper running costs, too.
Just how expensive the Leon is to keep on the road will depend on how spicy you want the engine to be. The 1.5 TSI 150 offers the least performance, but an official figure of 47.9mpg means it will be the cheapest to run.
At the other end of the scale, the Leon 2.0 TSI 300 hatchback will require more frequent trips to the petrol station. It averages up to 37.2 mpg, whilst the all-wheel-drive Leon 310 estate manages just 34.4mpg.
Certain VZ2 and VZ3 models also have list prices above the £40,000 ‘expensive car’ threshold. This means they are liable for increased VED (road tax) payments for the first five years of renewal.
With CO2 emissions from 186g/km, the VZ3 2.0 TSI 310 Estate incurs a first-year VED charge of £1,040, followed by annual payments of £570.
The plug-in hybrid model will appeal to company car drivers, thanks to its relatively low 12 percent Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rating. For a Cupra Leon e-Hybrid hatch in VZ2 trim, this would see those in the 20 percent income tax bracket paying only £75 a month. Just don’t expect to see the official figure of 217.3mpg without topping the batteries up very regularly.
Cupra supplies the Leon with a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty as standard. This can be extended to four or five years relatively cheaply when buying new. Cupra also offers various service plans to keep maintenance costs down.
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- Engines range from eTSI to TSI 310 DSG 4Drive
Cupra Leon 2024: Handling and ride quality
With Cupra placing a focus on grown-up performance, the Leon is a capable cross-country machine, just like the related Golf GTI. It just lacks the final X-factor compared to, say, a Honda Civic Type R or Hyundai i30 N.
Models above Cupra Leon V1 trim gain progressive steering, which offers plenty of initial sharpness, but feels light whichever driving mode is chosen. The level of feedback is enough to judge what the front tyres are doing, just without huge amounts of enjoyment.
Dynamic Chassis Control is a feature of VZ2 cars and above. This gives 16 levels of damper stiffness to choose from – more than is necessary, frankly.
In Comfort mode, the Leon is genuinely yielding on rougher roads, while Cupra mode is borderline unusable on UK tarmac. Engaging Sport mode makes for a notable sweet-spot, smoothing out the worst bumps but still maintaining taut body control.
The added all-wheel-drive traction of the Cupra Leon 310 Estate makes a noticeable difference in juggling all that horsepower.
Cupra Leon 2024: Engines
Cupra offers the Leon with a host of engine options, spanning from relatively mild through to really quite wild. There are four flavours of petrol engine to pick from, along with the option of a petrol plug-in hybrid.
The 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder TSI 150 engine is the newest addition to the Cupra Leon range, and the only one available with a six-speed manual gearbox. With 150PS, it feels a little underwhelming, and is best left in the regular SEAT Leon.
The 190PS version of the 2.0-litre TSI engine brings an extra dose of performance. It cuts the 0-62mph time down to less than 8.0 seconds, and introduces a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission standard.
The 245PS 2.0 TSI engine is used in a variety of Volkswagen Group hot hatches, including the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Skoda Octavia vRS. Cracking 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds, with a top speed of 155mph, it offers performance more in keeping with the Cupra name. It can only be had with the five-door hatchback model, however.
Top of the petrol engine hierarchy is the 300PS 2.0 TSI. In the hatchback, this comes with front-wheel drive, and sprints to 62mph in 5.7 seconds. The extra power is noticeable, as is the benefit from upgraded Brembo brakes.
Estate versions get extra power, with maximum output stretched to 310PS. Being combined with 4Drive all-wheel drive makes this Cupra Leon an effective fast wagon, whatever the weather conditions. The added traction cuts the 0-62mph time to just 4.9 seconds.
The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.4-litre petrol turbocharged engine with an electric motor. This results in 245PS, although the additional weight of the batteries is hard to ignore.
Cupra Leon 2024: Safety
As a ‘twin’ of the regular SEAT Leon, the Cupra model receives the same five-star rating from Euro NCAP. After crash tests by the safety organisation, the car was praised for its strong adult and child occupant protection.
Standard levels of safety equipment are generous, including front assist with emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and tiredness recognition. Higher-spec models gain adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and high beam assist.
Cupra Leon 2024: Towing
The Cupra Leon may not be the most obvious tow vehicle, but there is the option of a dealer-fit towbar for the Estate version. This is only compatible with non-hybrid models.
Opting for the Cupra Leon Estate in 2.0 TSI 4Drive specification means you can haul a braked trailer or caravan weighing up to 1900kg. However, the Cupra Ateca SUV might be a better choice if you need to tow regularly. It offers a 2100kg towing capacity.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| eTSI | - | 6.7–8.9 s | 30–31 g/km |
| TSI 245 DSG | - | 6.4 s | 162–163 g/km |
| TSI 300 DSG | - | 6.7 s | 171–172 g/km |
| TSI 310 DSG 4Drive | - | 4.9 s | 186 g/km |
Cupra Leon Models and Specs
The Cupra Leon range starts with V1 specification: limited in availability to the less powerful 150PS 1.5 TSI and 190PS 2.0 TSI petrol engines. Standard equipment includes 18-inch black and silver alloy wheels, LED headlights with dynamic indicators, and LED tail lights with Cupra’s ‘coast to coast’ light bar.
Despite being the entry-level model, the V1 wears the same Cupra body styling and black-painted brake callipers as other versions. The door mirrors fold electrically, and there is tinted rear glass for added style and privacy. You also get a rear-view camera and all-round parking sensors.
The V1’s interior comes with cloth sports seats, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and copper trim. Ambient lighting, plus what Cupra describes as ‘wraparound lighting’, are other notable features, as is the three-zone climate control.
All Cupra Leons come with a Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel, supporting a sizable 12.0-inch multimedia touchscreen. This includes satellite navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity. The latter consists of wireless Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto options.
Dynamic road sign display, high beam assist and adaptive cruise control with a speed limiter function are included on the V1.
Moving up to VZ2 specification allows the Cupra Leon to be equipped with more powerful versions of the 2.0 TSI engine. There are few visual differences with the V1, other than a set of 19-inch ‘Machined Sport’ black and silver alloy wheels. Estate models gain a set of gloss black roof rails, too.
On the inside, the VZ2 retains the same digital instrument panel and touchscreen setup. Like the V1, it comes with four USB-C ports throughout the cabin to connect and charge devices.
A Cupra Dynamic and Comfort package is included with all VZ2 models. This offers speed-sensitive power steering and Dynamic Chassis Control. The Cupra Leon Estate 310 comes with a ‘Safety and Driving XL’ package, too.
Topping the Cupra Leon range is the VZ3, with aerodynamic 19-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights and an electric tailgate for the Estate.
Its heated front sports seats are upholstered in leather and are electrically adjustable, while the flat-bottomed steering wheel is now heated. Wireless smartphone charging and the Safety and Driving XL package complete the top-spec Leon.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4398–4657 mm |
| Width | 1992 mm |
| Height | 1432–1444 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2683–2685 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1364–1717 kg |
| Boot Space | 270–620 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £35,760–£38,910 |
| Insurance Groups | - |
| Road Tax Bands | A–J |
| Official MPG | - |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
Currently on sale
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Leon e-Hybrid PHEV VZ2 Design Edition eTSi Hybrid 245 PHEV 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 7.0 s |
| Leon e-Hybrid PHEV VZ3 Design Edition eTSi Hybrid 245 PHEV 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 8.9 s |
| Leon V1 Design Edition eTSi EVO 150 MHEV DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 8.9 s |
| Leon V1 Design Edition TSi 190 DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 7.5 s |
| Leon V1 Design Edition TSi EVO 150 Start/Stop | - | - | 8.9 s |
| Leon VZ2 Design Edition TSi 310 4Drive DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 4.9 s |
| Leon VZ3 Design Edition TSi 310 4Drive DSG Auto Start/Stop | - | - | 4.9 s |
| V1 eTSi EVO 150 MHEV DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.9 s |
| V1 TSi 190 DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 7.5 s |
| V1 TSi EVO 150 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 9.1 s |
| VZ2 eTSi Hybrid 245 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £36,870 | - | 6.7 s |
| VZ2 TSi 310 4Drive DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 4.9 s |
| VZ3 eTSi Hybrid 245 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £38,910 | - | 6.7 s |
| VZ3 TSi 310 4Drive DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 4.9 s |
On sale until June 2022
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| First Edition eTSi Hybrid 245 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £37,240 | - | 6.7 s |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| First Edition eTSi Hybrid 245 12.8kWh DSG Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £35,775 | - | 7.0 s |
Good
- Huge performance in top-spec 300 or 310 guise
- Both hatchback and estate versions are practical
- Plug-in hybrid offers low company car tax
Bad
- Infotainment system is endlessly frustrating to use
- A Skoda Octavia is even more practical
- Can feel a little too sensible for a hot hatchback
Model History
- February 2020: Cupra Leon revealed with hybrid power
- November 2020: Cupra Leon priced from £31,450
- May 2021: Cupra Leon Estate priced from £38,475
- May 2021: 245PS Cupra Leon priced from £31,460
- July 2021: Cupra Leon updated for 2021
- September 2022: New engines added to Cupra Leon range
- November 2022: Orders open for Cupra Leon 190 and Leon Estate 150
- September 2023: Order books open for new Cupra Leon Design Editions
February 2020
Cupra Leon revealed with hybrid power
A hot version of the new SEAT Leon, the Cupra Leon follows the Ateca in being sold as a standalone Cupra model. It's available in five-door hatch or estate body styles.
It uses the same 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine as the new Golf GTI. It comes with 245 or 300PS, while the estate version will be available with 310PS. There's also a plug-in hybrid model with 245PS.
The fastest model will accelerate to 62mph in 4.8 seconds, while top speed is limited to 155mph. All models come with a DSG automatic gearbox, while four-wheel-drive is standard on the estate.
November 2020
Cupra Leon priced from £31,450
Order books are now open for the Cupra Leon e-Hybrid with prices starting from £34,495 for a VZ2 model. Order books for pure-petrol variants will open early 2021.
Indicative prices for two petrol models reveal a starting price from £31,450 for the Cupra Leon 2.0 TSI 245PS, and £35,000 for the 2.0 TSI 300PS.
Prices for the 310PS 4Drive model, available exclusively in Estate form, will be announced before the end of the year.
Electrifying the Cupra brand for the first time, the Cupra Leon 1.4 e-Hybrid 245PS VZ2 accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and a has an official combined fuel consumption of up to 217.3mpg, with emissions as low as 30g/km (WLTP).
At the heart of the high-performance plug-in hybrid is a 150PS, 250Nm 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine; a 115PS electric motor; and 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Together these provide an impressive 245PS of power and 400Nm of torque.
Cupra Leon eHybrid has an electric-only range (WLTP) of 32 miles. When the battery needs recharging, it can be done in as little as 3 hours 42 minutes using a 3.6kW AC Wall box (or 5 hours 48 minutes from 230V domestic socket).
The Cupra Leon eHybrid always starts in all-electric mode (when the battery is sufficiently charged). The drive switches to Hybrid mode if the state of charge of the battery drops below a certain level or if the speed rises above 81mph. In Hybrid mode, the driver can pre-define a saved state of charge of the battery, only using the saved charge when within a low-emissions zone.
Priced at £34,495, the VZ2 e-HYBRID model offers a balance of sporty and premium design features and advanced technology as standard. The exterior features 19-inch machined sport black and silver alloy wheels and rear diffusers with twin exhaust pipes on each side that pay homage to the brand’s heritage, while trademark chrome and copper detailing and rear coast-to-coast lighting enhance the Cupra Leon’s premium feel.
Inside, the Cupra Leon continues its unique design cues, with drivers introduced to a stylish and distinct black cabin, with chrome and copper detailing, Cupra embossed racing bucket seats, a plush leather steering wheel and Cupra sports pedals all fitted as standard.
An advanced digital cockpit with Full Link integration (including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), 10-inch Media System Plus with smart navigation, ambient and wraparound lighting and a seven-speaker audio system provide a premium experience behind the wheel.
Four Cupra Drive profiles – Comfort, Sport, Cupra and Individual – offer drivers an unforgetable experience on every road, while an array of advanced technologies, including keyless start and entry, a Tiredness Recognition system, Lane Keeping System and Front Assist ensure the highest levels of safety.
Progressing up the range, the VZ3 trim increases the level of comfort and technology, while ramping up the CUPRA Leon’s sporty design cues, introducing 19-inch aerodynamic black and silver alloy wheels, heated Petrol Blue genuine Nappa leather bucket seats (black leather also available at no cost), a heated front steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging and a virtual pedal with electric tailgate (Estate only).
The exclusive First Edition adds an array of safety technology including Dynamic Road Sign display, High Beam Assist, predictive and adaptive cruise control, Side and Exit Assist and Lane Change Assist.
New Cupra Leon 5DR
|
Model |
CO 2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Fuel econ. (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK |
Price (OTR) |
|
VZ2 |
30 |
201.8-217.3 |
10% |
£34,495 |
|
VZ3 |
30 |
201.8-217.3 |
10% |
£36,225 |
|
First Edition |
30 |
201.8-217.3 |
10% |
£35,775 |
New Cupra Leon Estate
|
Model |
CO 2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Fuel econ. (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK |
Price (OTR) |
|
VZ2 |
31 |
188.3-201.8 |
10% |
£35,525 |
|
VZ3 |
31 |
188.3-201.8 |
10% |
£37,585 |
|
First Edition |
31 |
188.3-201.8 |
10% |
£37,240 |
The Cupra Leon is available in white non-metallic paint and five metallic colours (Desire Red, Magnetic Grey, Midnight Black, Urban Silver and Graphene Grey) at no extra cost.
Deliveries to the UK begin before the end of the year (2020) for plug-in hybrid variants and early 2021 for pure-petrol models.
May 2021
Cupra Leon Estate priced from £38,475
Prices have been announced for Cupra's most potent performance estate to date, costing from £38,475 RRP for CUPRA Leon Estate 2.0 TSI DSG-auto 4Drive 310 VZ2 and rising to £40,535 for the top VZ3 trim.
Its sophisticated powertrain combines the latest iteration of the 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine with a DSG-auto transmission and 4Drive four-wheel drive system as standard to deliver exceptional all-weather capability and an exhilarating driving experience.
The renowned 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces 310PS and 400Nm of torque, enabling Leon Estate to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph.
On the combined WLTP cycle, Leon Estate 310PS offers up to 34.4mpg and CO 2 emissions from 186g/km.
VZ2 equips Leon Estate 310PS with an extensive specification as standard, with 19” machined black and silver alloy wheels, the Leon’s signature LED exterior lighting, Media System Plus with Navigation and Full Link smartphone integration, ambient interior lighting, CUPRA’s distinctive copper interior detailing, sports bucket seats, Dynamic Chassis Control, keyless start and entry and three-zone climate control.
VZ3 adds 19” Aerodynamic machined sport black and silver alloys, wireless phone charger, heated front seats, leather upholstery, power driver seat and electric tailgate.
Standard equipment bespoke to the Leon Estate 310PS includes roof rails in gloss black, a 12V socket in the boot, a CUPRA Supersports heated steering wheel with satellite buttons and the CUPRA Safety and Driving Pack XL comprising of dynamic road sign display, high beam assist, Predictive and Adaptive Cruise Control, blind spot monitor, exit warning, emergency assist and lane change assist.
Towbar pre-installation, panoramic sunroof, a choice of seven paint colours and petrol blue nappa leather (VZ3 only) can be additionally specified.
|
Model |
CO 2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Combined fuel consumption (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK (2021/22) |
Price (OTR RRP) |
|
VZ2 |
186-196 |
32.8-34.4 |
37% |
£38,475 |
|
VZ3 |
186-196 |
32.8-34.4 |
37% |
£40,535
|
May 2021
245PS Cupra Leon priced from £31,460
Cupra has introduced a new powertrain to its Leon range, with order books open from today.
The brand’s hot hatchback has received a new 245PS output of the 2.0 TSI DSG-auto powertrain, increasing the affordability of the Cupra Leon. Now available to order, prices start from £31,460 RRP for the VZ1 trim and rise to £32,695 for the VZ2 trim.
Available exclusively with the DSG-auto transmission, the latest iteration delivers 245PS and 370Nm of torque. The efficient turbocharged petrol engine powers the CUPRA Leon from 0-62mph in just 6.4 seconds, with a limited top speed of 155mph.
The brand says the 245PS 2.0 TSI provides a perfect balance between performance, efficiency and comfort, with all Cupra Leon variants including a host of performance design features and technology as standard.
The range kicks off with the VZ1 trim, which features 18-inch machined black and silver alloy wheels, sports bumpers, black brake calipers, Cupra's unique chrome and copper interior detailing, a flat-bottomed perforated leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, sports bucket seats and a rear diffuser with oval quad (two either side) exhaust pipes.
A comprehensive selection of technology comes as standard too, with highlights including a digital cockpit, a 10-inch infotainment system with navigation and Full Link smartphone integration (compatible with Mirror Link, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Google Android Auto), four USB-C charging ports, wraparound ambient interior lighting, illuminated door sills, three-zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, keyless entry and start and a rear view reversing camera.
VZ2 trim upgrades the wheels to 19-inch machined black and silver alloys and enhance the aggressive aesthetic of the CUPRA Leon, while adding dynamic chassis control that enhances the hatchback’s driving dynamics and ride.
New CUPRA Leon Hatch TSI DSG-auto 245PS
|
Model |
CO 2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Combined fuel consumption (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK (2020/21) |
Price (OTR RRP) |
|
VZ1 |
162-172 |
37.2-39.2 |
35% |
£31,460 |
|
VZ2 |
163-172 |
37.2-39.2 |
35% |
£32,695
|
July 2021
Cupra Leon updated for 2021
The Cupra Leon is now available to order in two matte paint finishes – Magnetic Tech and Petrol Blue.
All variants of the Leon equipped with a DSG-auto gearbox will also benefit from a heated steering wheel as standard, while on Formentor, an electric tailgate is now an available option on V1 and V2 trims, and a top view camera can be added to the VZ2 and VZ3 trims.
CUPRA Leon e-HYBRID also gains a mode 3 charging cable as standard, enabling faster charging.
Cupra for the CUPRA Leon start at £31,555 OTR for Leon Hatch VZ1 trim 2.0-litre TSI 245PS DSG-auto and rise to £40,535 OTR for the range-topping Leon Estate VZ3 2.0-litre TSI 310PS DSG-auto 4Drive.
September 2022
New engines added to Cupra Leon range
Both the Leon 5-door hatchback and Estate will be available with a 1.5-litre TSI 150PS petrol engine and a 2.0-litre TSI 190PS petrol engine. The 150PS unit will be available with both manual and DSG-auto gearboxes, while the 190PS unit will be available exclusively with a DSG-auto gearbox.
The newest additions to the CUPRA Leon will also introduce a generously equipped V1 trim level, further enhancing the value of the Leon family.
Standard equipment will include 18” Machined sport black and silver alloy wheels, LED headlight and taillights, a 12” infotainment system with navigation and Full Link smartphone integration, CUPRA drive profile selection, KESSY Advanced keyless entry and start, Predictive and Adaptive Cruise Control and a rear diffuser with twin exhaust pipes.
UK orders for the new variants of the Leon range will open from early October, starting with the Leon 5-door 1.5-litre 150PS DSG-auto V1, with the other variants to follow soon after.
November 2022
Orders open for Cupra Leon 190 and Leon Estate 150
Cupra has opened order books for the Leon Hatch and Estate 2.0-litre TSI 190PS, as well as the Leon Estate 1.5-litre TSI 150PS powertrain.
A first for the Cupra Leon, the 2.0-litre TSI 190PS engine blends affordability with performance, adding more choice for customers. Prices for the 190PS engine start from £33,170 OTR.
Peak power of the 190PS engine is produced between 4,200-6,000 rpm, with peak torque of 320Nm arriving between 1,500-4,100 rpm. The 190PS engine delivers 39.8-41.5mpg on the combined WLTP cycle and a top speed of 141mph (143mph for Estate). It is available exclusively with the DSG-auto gearbox and delivers a 0-62mph time of 7.2 seconds (7.5 seconds for Estate).
Meanwhile, the new entry-level 150PS engine option for the Cupra Leon Estate is now the most affordable version of the Estate variant, with prices starting at just £30,875 OTR for the six-speed manual or £32,985 OTR for the DSG-auto.
Initially, the 150PS engine was only available for the Leon 5dr Hatch but has now been introduced to the Leon Estate to give customers even greater choice. The 150PS engine produces a maximum of 250Nm of torque, and is at its most powerful between 5,000-6,000rpm. Off the line, the 150PS engine achieves 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds (manual) and 8.9 seconds (DSG-auto), and tops out at 134mph.
The addition of two new engines to the range means that there are now five different engine options available for Cupra Leon: 1.5 TSI 150PS, 2.0 TSI 190PS, 2.0 TSI 245PS, 2.0 TSI 300PS (310PS 4Drive on Leon Estate) and 245PS e-HYBRID plug-in hybrid. This means the Leon range now largely mirrors the range of powertrains available with Formentor.
Both the new 150PS and 190PS engine options are available exclusively with Cupra’s entry-level V1 trim level. As standard this generously equipped trim level benefits from:
- 18” machined sport black and silver alloy wheels
- Tinted rear windows
- Rear diffuser with twin exhaust pipes
- Electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors
- LED headlights with dynamic turn signals and LED taillights with coast-to-coast lighting
- Rain sensing wipers
- 12” Media System Plus with Navigation, Full Link smartphone integration (Mirror Link, wireless Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto) and Cupra Connect
- Digital driver cockpit
- Four USB-C charging ports
- Sport seats with copper stitching, leather flat-bottomed steering wheel with gearshift paddles (DSG-auto only) and chrome and copper interior detailing
- Cupra Drive Profile selection (Comfort, Sport, Cupra, Individual)
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Three-zone climate control
- KESSY Advanced Keyless entry and start
- Lane Assist
- Safety and Driving Pack (M) comprising Predictive and Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Assist and Dynamic Road sign display
In addition, customers can specify a space saving spare wheel (£120 RRP) and a panoramic sunroof available for both hatchback and estate variants, priced at £1,035 and £1,055 RRP respectively. Leon Estate is also available with tow bar pre-installation (£145 RRP) and an electric towing hook* (£750 RRP).
Cupra Leon is available with a choice of eight exterior paint options: non-metallic White; metallic Magnetic Tech Grey, Midnight Black and Nevada White; special metallic Desire Red and Graphene Grey; matte Magnetic Tech Grey and Petrol Blue.
Cupra Leon Hatch
|
Model |
CO2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Combined fuel consumption (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK (2020/21) |
Price (OTR RRP) |
|
2.0 TSI DSG-auto 190PS V1 |
154 |
39.8-41.5 |
35% |
£33,170 |
Cupra Leon Estate
|
Model |
CO2 (g/km, WLTP) |
Combined fuel consumption (mpg, WLTP) |
BiK (2020/21) |
Price (OTR RRP) |
|
1.5 TSI manual 150PS V1 |
136 |
43.5-47.1 |
32% |
£30,875 |
|
1.5 TSI DSG-auto 150PS V1 |
136 |
44.1-47.1 |
32% |
£32,985 |
|
2.0 TSI DSG-auto 190PS V1 |
154 |
39.8-41.5 |
35% |
£34,445 |
September 2023
Order books open for new Cupra Leon Design Editions
Cupra has announced that the all-new Cupra Leon Design Edition trims are now available to order in the UK.
Prices for the new Design Editions start at £32,055 for the Cupra Leon Hatch V1 Design Edition TSI 150PS and £33,540 for the Cupra Leon Estate V1 Design Edition TSI 150PS.
The V Trim Design Edition Pack features 18-inch Machined Sport Black and Copper alloy wheels while the VZ Trim Design Edition Pack features 19-inch Performance Black Satin & Copper alloy wheels with both including a panoramic sunroof, black side skirts, and a black roof spoiler.
The updates mean the full Cupra Leon 5dr Hatch and Estate trim line-up comprises V1, V1 Design Edition, VZ2 Design Edition, and VZ3 Design Edition, with the new editions available to order from 13 September 2023.
In addition, the VZ3 Design Edition is also now optionally available with Brembo brakes to offer even greater stopping power. Powertrain options remain unchanged.
