• 300hp model is the most exciting by far
• 150hp variant doesn’t feel fast enough
• PHEV’s handling disappoints due to extra weight

Petrol engines

Although we’d heartily recommend the 150hp 1.5 TSI petrol in the regular SEAT Leon, it feels out of place in what is outwardly a sporty hatch. Yes, it’s fine for everyday bimbling around, yet it never feels particularly fast. If you’re more interested in looking fast than going fast, we’d stick to the six-speed manual rather than the slightly dim-witted mild-hybrid assisted auto.

If you want more, there are three versions of a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. The engine fitted to the entry-level hatchback produces 190hp, which sounds great on paper – but the car never feels as fast as those figures would suggest. Even the 245hp mid-range version could do with a bit more pep compared to the similarly priced Hyundai I30 N.

The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is part of the problem. It doesn’t change gear fast enough in anything other than manual mode, and it sometimes can’t decide how far to change down when you plant the throttle hard when cruising.

Cupra’s 300hp Leon hatchback is much more exciting. It produces a meatier 400Nm of torque, so the car springs forward with more gusto when you mat the throttle. The extra torque also seems to suit the gearbox better, as it doesn’t need to change down as often when you accelerate. The engine simply mashes against the cogs, and you’re away.

The range-topping estate variant gets an extra 10hp over the quickest hatchback, but torque remains the same. However, thanks to the addition of four-wheel drive, it’s the fastest model in the line-up. Cupra says it’ll go from 0–62mph in 4.9 seconds, compared to 5.7 seconds for the 300hp front-wheel drive model.

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Plug-in hybrids

Cupra offers just one PHEV powertrain. It’s the same unit found in the Volkswagen Golf GTE and Skoda Octavia vRS iV – a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor and a 12.8kWh battery pack. Combined, the system develops 245hp and 370Nm of torque, which is exactly the same as the cheapest non-electrically assisted petrol engine.

That sounds great, right? You’re getting the same amount of power with better fuel economy, plus an electric-only range of 32 miles. Sadly, it doesn’t work quite so perfectly in the real world, because the battery pack and electric motor increase the Cupra Leon’s kerb weight by almost 200kg to 1,671kg. 

Gains like those have an effect on the Leon’s performance. It feels quick in a straight line, but only when the petrol engine and electric motor are working together. Allowing the battery to run empty will seriously flatten out the car’s acceleration, as the engine (which only has 150hp) needs to work much harder to haul around the stricken hybrid system.

What’s it like to drive?

The pure-petrol models are great. The chassis is supple, which means you’ve got the confidence to throw it down a B-road. Even the standard car has loads of grip – and Cupra’s locking differential (on 245 models and up) improves on this by dragging the car towards the apex as you round a corner by sending more power to the inside wheel. 

The system’s a real novelty, as you can feel it working through the steering wheel. There’s a bit of torque steer if you accelerate hard away from a standstill, but that’s just part of the fun.

The 300hp version is better still, offering loads of performance and grip at a lower price than the mechanically similar Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport. The steering is precise and the front noses into corners keenly despite the fact that it’s wrestling with an extra 50hp.

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Adaptive dampers come as standard with the 300hp model, which adjust the harshness of the suspension depending on the driving mode to improve the car’s cornering ability. They’re set up very well for British roads, managing to remain comfortable regardless of the setting.

Sport mode is the most satisfying compromise for those in a hurry on the road. The ride will surprise you with its ability to absorb mid-corner bumps, while the steering (which is also firmed up depending on the drive mode) is light but loses none of its feedback.

The PHEV-powered Leon e-Hybrid isn’t as exciting, primarily because of the extra weight. It’s best thought of as a slightly sportier version of the SEAT Leon with tighter body control, rather than a fully fledged hot hatchback. The added bulk dulls the car’s cornering ability, producing more body roll.