2026 Cupra Leon review

How do you say ‘Golf’ in Spanish or Catalan? Depending on who you ask, they might actually say ‘Leon’.

Cupra’s sizzling hot hatch, a Spanish spin on the VW Golf, is back in Australia with a fresh facelift and ambitious goals. Can this Iberian contender carve out a bigger piece of the premium small-car market? The competition is fierce, and the road ahead won’t be easy.

The Leon is back, bolder than ever! Prepare to be wowed by its stunning new design, intuitive tech upgrades, and a cabin experience that redefines comfort. And for those who crave extra cargo space, the Sportstourer has arrived – the wagon you’ve been waiting for is finally here!

But wait, there’s a jolt of electricity in the air! The Leon Sportstourer isn’t just turning heads; it’s plugging in. Debuting the VW Group’s next-gen ‘e-Hybrid’ powertrain, it boasts a staggering 120km+ of emission-free WLTP range. And the electrifying news doesn’t stop there: a PHEV hatchback is set to spark excitement early next year, paving the way for a monstrous 245kW AWD wagon – a performance hero arriving mid-2026, ready to redefine the meaning of ‘thrill ride.’

With a mere 1.5% slice of an already shrinking market, you’d think Cupra might play it safe. Think again. They’re throwing down the gauntlet, betting big on choice in this exclusive, albeit tiny, arena. Cupra’s not just participating; they’re hunting for rivals’ customers.

Battling for supremacy in the compact car arena? The usual suspects line up: Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. But don’t count out the dark horses! A loaded Hyundai i30 or Mazda 3 can definitely play spoiler. And let’s be honest, the SEAT/Cupra Leon? It’s practicallydaringevery small hatchback and wagon across Europe to come and have a go.

Is this latest version worth a look? We joined the Australian media launch in New South Wales to find out.

How much does the Cupra Leon cost?

Cupra’s keeping the exact price tags under wraps for the revamped Leon, but expect a nudge upwards from the previous hatchback versions.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2026 Cupra Leon Hatch S | $46,990 | | 2026 Cupra Leon Hatch Ve (coming Q1 2026) | $TBC | | 2026 Cupra Leon Hatch VZx | $64,990 | | 2026 Cupra Leon Sportstourer VZe | $69,990 | | 2026 Cupra Leon Sportstourer VZx (coming mid-2026) | $TBC |

Cupra’s about to unleash a tidal wave of savings on the pre-facelift Leon and Formentor. But before the discounts hit, consider this: the punchy 140kW Leon V once commanded a $49,000 drive-away price. Now, get this – the Leon Hatch S, while a touch less spirited, packs a more efficient engine and a host of extra features, all for just a $2,000 premium. Food for thought as you dive into those clearance deals.

The Leon Hatch VZx gets a hefty price bump of $5000 over the previous model, a cost increase that isn’t reflected under the hood. While the drivetrain remains untouched, buyers DO get the complete visual makeover, upgraded features, and technological advancements lavished on the rest of the refreshed lineup.

The Leon Sportstourer VZe introduces a fresh silhouette to Australian roads. Think of it as the stylish Spaniard taking on the practical Czech – the Skoda Octavia RS Wagon. But while the Octavia throws a 195kW 2.0 TSI petrol punch, starting at $64,490 drive-away, the Leon boasts a different kind of firepower.

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

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What is the Cupra Leon like on the inside?

The interior hasn’t been revolutionized, but subtle enhancements have sparked a tangible leap in quality and atmosphere.

Whether you choose model A or model B, the core experience remains consistent: A vibrant 10.25-inch ‘digital cockpit’ replaces traditional gauges, flowing seamlessly into a massive 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. This isn’t just another screen; it’s a complete reimagining of the driver’s interface, a design language unlike anything you’ve seen gracing an Audi, Skoda, or Volkswagen. Prepare for a sensory experience as unique as the car itself.

Forget fumbling through menus! VW Group finally heard the cries for simpler controls. The touchscreen now boasts a permanently docked climate bar, meaning instant access to temperature tweaks. And those infamous touch sliders? Hallelujah, they’re illuminated, banishing late-night temperature struggles to the past.

The central touchscreen, though shy of the Golf or Tiguan’s colossal 15-inch display, is perfectly proportioned for the ID.4’s intimate interior. It’s a vibrant hub, brimming with features: embedded navigation to guide your adventures, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and crystal-clear DAB+ digital radio. A noticeable omission? Connected-car tech remains stubbornly absent.

Forget the A3, ditch the Golf, and overlook the Octavia. When it comes to the MQB evo family, the driver’s instrument display is the unsung hero, specifically for its dazzling array of customization. Its intelligent color palette, punctuated by those seductive copper accents so distinctly Audi, simply steals the show.

Imagine an instrument panel echoing the heart of an Audi R8 supercar. That’s the inspiration behind the available central rev counter. A nod to Audi’s S and RS lineage, it’s not just a gauge; in the VZe plug-in hybrid, it transforms into a thrilling hybrid power meter. Picture this: unleashed electric boost, the needle surges, and the whole dial pulses with an electric blue energy, mirroring the car’s raw power.

Forget cold, hard plastics! The new model’s center console welcomes your touch with supple, padded leatherette a tactile upgrade miles beyond its predecessor. It’s a detail that whispers luxury where Audi, Skoda, and Volkswagen merely shout practicality.

Inside, the Leon whispers luxury with copper stitching that dances across the interior. It highlights the futuristic shift-by-wire gear selector and frames the air vents in a warm, inviting glow. Taking cues from its Audi cousins, the Leon now boasts satellite buttons on the steering wheel for ignition and drive modes. Previously exclusive to the powerful VZx, this R8-inspired touch elevates the entire driving experience.

Imagine a cascade of light flowing across the base of the windscreen, a vibrant chameleon adapting to your every command. This isn’t just ambient lighting; it’s a dynamic LED strip that morphs into pulsating indicators and urgent safety alerts, like a blind-spot sentinel flashing a warning. Cupra has orchestrated a symphony of light, pre-programmed profiles that sync with your chosen driving mode and even your mood.

Inside, every Cupra Leon embraces you with standard-issue sport bucket seats. Entry-level ‘S’ models boast Dinamica microfibre upholstery, punctuated by vibrant blue accents. Step up to the VZx or VZe and sink into the embrace of a brand-new Moonslate leather design. However, whispers suggest this refreshed leather, while stylish, might not quite match the sumptuous feel of the pre-facelift Leon’s optional Nappa-esque hide.

However, the embossed Cupra logo on the head restraints adds a touch of class, complemented by the supremely comfortable and highly adjustable seats. Now standard: electric adjustment and memory settings for the driver, plus toasty heating for both front occupants, ensuring a first-class experience.

Craving a truly elevated ride in your Leon S? Splurge on the Leather and Sound Package ($2200) and transform your passenger seat into a throne with power adjustments and memory settings. Plus, prepare to be sonically immersed by the pulse-pounding 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system. The best part? Both of these luxurious features come standard in the Leon Hatch VZx and Sportstourer VZe.

The VZx’s optional $7600 "Extreme Package" promises racy, carbon-backed ‘Cup Bucket’ front seats, but alas, they remained tantalizingly out of reach at the launch event. What wedoknow? These seats boast ‘SEAQUAL’ sustainable textile inserts – a guilt-free touch of eco-consciousness woven from recyclable fabrics.

Don’t let its compact size fool you. This car’s cabin is a masterclass in maximizing space. Clever storage solutions are tucked throughout, including a dedicated cubby in front of the gearshift, complete with a wireless charging pad – and a brilliant holder that keeps your phone from becoming a projectile. Bonus points for the tandem cupholders, even if they are still, inexplicably, different sizes.

The center armrest hides a surprisingly spacious storage compartment. However, while the door bins offer decent room, they lack the VW Golf’s plush, felt-lined luxury and its generous proportions.

Forget comparing apples to oranges. Inside, the Leon doesn’t just nip at the heels of the Golf and Octavia; it elevates the experience entirely. The cabin ambience whispers premium, and dare we say, even gives the Audi A3 a run for its money in the sophistication stakes.

Okay, here’s the improved content:

"While whispers of cost-cutting surface in less-traveled zones – a silver plastic shimmer on door trim, a textured dashboard that merely hints at luxury – remember this: we’re talking about a hatchback dancing near the $50,000 mark. And in that arena, the cabin punches far above its weight, leaving you feeling less like you’ve compromised and more like you’ve cleverly outsmarted the system."

Whether you fancy the sleek Leon Hatch or the versatile Sportstourer, backseat passengers are in for a similar experience. Both models ride on a 2686mm wheelbase, translating to rear legroom that’s perfectly adequate, though perhaps not class-leading.

Even with a lanky driver up front, rear knee and legroom won’t leave passengers feeling cramped. However, the front seats, though supportive, are built like fortresses, complete with integrated headrests. This creates a restricted view for those in the back, particularly smaller children trying to see the road ahead. Compounding the issue, the upward-sloping window line makes it difficult for shorter passengers to enjoy the scenery whizzing by.

Passengers in the back? They’ll be battling for control of their own climate zone, thanks to a handy third zone. Hydration is key with bottle holders in the rear doors, and that ever-important caffeine fix finds a home in the robust, fold-down center armrest’s cupholders.

The Leon Hatch and Sportstourer are family-ready, complete with the expected ISOFIX and top-tether anchors for child seats. But here’s a clever touch: a ski port nestled within the center seat. So, go ahead, haul those skis (or that awkwardly long flat-pack furniture) without sacrificing valuable passenger space.

The Leon Hatchback’s boot cleverly holds 344 litres with the seats up, expanding to a cavernous 888 litres when folded. Need more space? The Sportstourer VZe boasts an even larger cargo area, swallowing 470 litres in standard configuration and a whopping 1045 litres with the rear seats down – a testament to clever design despite the substantial battery pack nestled beneath.

The Leon S comes with a space-saver spare wheel, though the VZx and VZe only get tyre repair kits.

| Dimensions | Leon Hatch | Leon Sportstourer | | — | — | — | |Length| 4398mm | 4656mm | |Width| 1799mm | 1799mm | |Height| 1444mm | 1466mm incl. roof racks | |Wheelbase| 2686mm | 2686mm | |Cargo capacity| 344-888L | 470-1045L |

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

At launch, there are three distinct powertrain variants, with two more on the way in 2026.

| Specifications | Leon S | Leon VZx | Leon VZe | | — | — | — | — | |Engine| 1.5L 4cyl turbo-petrol 48V MHEV | 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol | 1.5L 4cyl turbo-petrol PHEV | |Power| 110kW | 221kW | 200kW | |Torque| 250Nm | 400Nm | 400Nm | |Battery capacity| – | – | 25.8kWh – gross | |Transmission| 7-speed dual-clutch | 7-speed dual-clutch | 6-speed dual-clutch | |Drive type| Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | |Weight| 1446kg | 1540kg | TBC | |0-100km/h (claimed)| 8.7 seconds | 5.7 seconds | 7.3 seconds | |Fuel economy (claimed) | 5.4L/100km | 7.6L/100km | 0.4L/100km | |Electric driving range (WLTP)| – | – | 121km | |Fuel tank capacity| 45L | 50L | TBC | |Fuel requirement| 95-octane premium unleaded | 98-octane premium unleaded | 95-octane premium unleaded | |CO2 emissions| 123g/km | 172g/km | TBC |

<strong > The Leon Hatch is set to electrify the streets by March 2026, inheriting a Ve plugin hybrid heart.</strong> Think of it as the Sportstourer VZe’s athletic younger sibling, but with a finely tuned powertrain delivering 150kW and 350Nm of torque. This electrifying move effectively eclipses the legacy of the outgoing Leon V, marking a bold step into the future of driving.

Hold tight, Leon enthusiasts! This June or July, the Sportstourer explodes onto the scene with the VZx – a roaring beast packing the same 245kW/420Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and all-wheel-drive system found in the Audi S3 and VW Golf R. Get ready for heart-pounding performance in a practical package.

Further details about these new variants will be made available in due course.

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How does the Cupra Leon drive?

Each Leon variant boasts a unique personality, and we weren’t about to take their word for it. We put in serious seat time – a solid 90 minutes for each model – to discover if their claims held water.

The Sportstourer VZe devoured the miles. Sydney shrank in the rearview as we lunged towards Mudgee, carving a path through the breathtaking canvas of the Blue Mountains. Day one: destination Mudgee. Day two: the satisfying return, etched forever in memory.

With a seemingly endless highway stretching before us, I nudged the Sportstourer into ‘Hybrid’ mode. The real test: silencing the PHEV doubters who claim these cars become gas guzzlers the moment their electric range expires. Could it sip fuel responsibly across the miles? The gauntlet had been thrown.

The Cupra Sportstourer’s 95km leg, a Sydney-to-Blue Mountains dash from Cupra Macarthur to Blackheath, was a stern test. Think relentless uphill climbs devouring battery power, a landscape dominated by high-speed freeways and open country roads – precisely the kind of terrain that makes a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sweat.

The old Leon Hatch VZe had me hooked. Now, with a bigger battery and pumped-up power, could the revamped Leon Sportstourer recapture that magic behind the wheel? I was eager to find out.

Silently, the Cupra Leon Sportstourer glided into action, its battery brimming with the promise of 100km of electric exploration. Even in Hybrid mode, the Cupra prefers a hushed approach, relying on its 85kW/320Nm electric heart for gentle starts and relaxed cruising. The petrol engine remains a sleeping giant, awakened only when a surge of power is demanded.

Mash the accelerator and the powertrain unleashes its full fury – a combined 200kW and 400Nm assault on the tarmac. Cupra claims a respectable 7.3-second sprint to 100km/h, but the real-world punch, especially when already in motion, is electrifying. Forget the official numbers; whispers from across the pond suggest this hot hatch can crack the 100km/h mark in the low sixes. Believe the hype.

Imagine a steering wheel that anticipates your every whim. That’s Standard Progressive Steering in the Leon Sportstourer. It’s not just light; it’s alive, offering pinpoint accuracy that makes every turn a joy. Even without the top-tier VZx’s fancy differential, the Sportstourer dances through corners, its clever e-diff subtly braking individual wheels to keep you glued to the road. The result? A car that feels both nimble and planted, turning mundane errands into mini-adventures. The Leon Sportstourer doesn’t just steer; it connects you to the road.

Unleash the wagon’s fury and the front tires might just beg for mercy, spinning even at speed under the onslaught of raw power. Switch to Performance or Cupra mode and a synthetic V8 symphony erupts – a guilty pleasure that, against all odds, will plaster a grin across your face.

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The Sportstourer: the "Grand Tourer" reimagined. Forget bone-jarring road trips; this variant glides. Its extended frame and subtly weighted rear transform mundane highways into velvet ribbons. After a grueling 2.5-hour return to Sydney, one thing became brilliantly clear: this isn’t just touring; it’s effortless domination of distance.

The highway blurred behind us. Ninety-four kilometers melted away as the speedometer hovered around 58km/h. The digital display told the tale of a frugal machine: a mere 2.1 liters of fuel sipped per 100km, supplemented by 15.5kWh of electric energy over the same distance. Nearing Blackheath, the Sportstourer still boasted 27km of pure electric freedom and a near-full tank promising another 560km of adventure.

The sun dawned, and I embarked on a far grander test: a 250km odyssey from Mudgee back to Cupra Macarthur. My electric steed began with a promising surge, nearly a full battery whispering promises of 100km. Its petrol heart, too, beat strong, holding approximately two-thirds of a tank, an estimated 280km of potential freedom.

"Back at the dealership, the numbers told the tale: 3.5L/100km and 6.7kWh/100km. Not bad, considering the sixty-five kilometer per hour average I maintained while wrestling with headwinds and carving through undulating roads, punctuated by bursts of exhilarating driving. So, to those who doubt the plug-in hybrid’s long-haul capabilities: these machinescansip fuel, even when pushed. The secret? Knowing how to tame the beast."

The Leon Hatch S debuts as the second variant, showcasing a brand-new powertrain. In a departure from the multilink suspension previously standard across the local Leon lineup, this model now features a torsion-beam rear axle.

The Leon S, pointed towards Sofala from Blackheath, faced a 130km gauntlet. It was a trial by fire, a baptism on sweeping highways and serpentine passes. For this fuel-sipping, entry-level machine, it felt like throwing a house cat into the Serengeti. This wasn’t its playground, but we were determined to see how it would play.

Forget the numbers. On paper, the base Cupra hatchback looks polite. But get behind the wheel, and it’s a different story. That 1.5 eTSI engine? It punches well above its weight. Sure, 110kW sounds… sensible. But the real magic is that 250Nm of torque, arriving like a shot of espresso right when you need it. It transforms the drive, making it feel eager, responsive, and genuinely fun. Suddenly, those seemingly modest figures fade into the background as you’re swept up in a wave of surprisingly addictive performance.

While it’s no speed demon, the engine responds eagerly, launching off the line with satisfying pep and delivering ample power for confident overtakes. A clever 48V mild-hybrid system subtly enhances the experience, gliding silently on the highway to conserve fuel and seamlessly injecting a surge of extra power when you demand it.

Beyond its affordability, the base model boasts a significant advantage: its lithe physique. Shedding a remarkable 100kg compared to the VZx, tipping the scales at a mere 1446kg, it’s a true featherweight. This diet, coupled with a smaller engine nestled over the front axle, unlocks a driving experience of unparalleled purity and agility. Handling is razor-sharp, responding to every input with eagerness, transforming mundane roads into exhilarating playgrounds.

Eager to dive into corners, it resists the urge to overwhelm you with power, keeping the front wheels firmly planted. The engine’s growl is more refined than raucous, and a surge of power awaits those country road overtaking opportunities.

Unless you’re carving corners or battling washboard roads, the Leon S’s simpler rear suspension largely fades into the background. It’s a ghost in the machine – a testament to clever engineering that prioritizes everyday comfort without sacrificing too much athleticism. Consider this: it shares similar underpinnings with playful pocket rockets like the Ford Fiesta ST and Hyundai i20 N, proving that thrilling performance doesn’t always require the most complex hardware.

Forget the badge snobbery. The base Leon possesses a driving spirit that rekindles memories of Alfa Romeo’s Giulia – before the Quadrifoglio even enters the conversation. Its steering is light, alive, and immediately responsive, echoing the legendary Italian sports sedan’s renowned agility. If you’re seeking driving thrills in a compact car under $50,000, look no further. The Leon doesn’t just compete; it conquers.

Beyond the city limits, the Leon’s otherwise polished ride revealed a chink in its armor: tyre roar. On coarse country roads, the din became noticeable, a constant companion not just in the S trim, but across the entire lineup. It’s hardly a deal-breaker, but for those who frequently escape the urban jungle, it’s a factor to weigh. Speaking of venturing afar, consider this: a spare wheel is only available on the base mild-hybrid model, a potential lifeline that’s curiously limited.

The Leon S sipped fuel like a hummingbird on the final stretch to Sofala. After 130km, the trip computer flashed an impressive 5.3L/100km, achieved at a brisk 75km/h average. Considering the pedal-down highway stretches and the Leon’s spirited dance through mountain passes, that’s a thirst I can respect.

"At last, the VZx. The apex of the range. I’d been itching to unleash the final, and arguably most thrilling, beast in the lineup: the 221kW Leon VZx. Think of it as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a sleeper version of the track-devouring VW Golf GTI Clubsport that Europe gets to enjoy."

Dressed in a brooding Century Bronze matte finish, the hot hatch radiated pure menace. Forged alloy wheels clawed at the asphalt, hinting at the beast within, amplified by a quad-tipped exhaust promising a symphony of fury. While the coveted Extreme Package, and its racing-spec Cup Bucket seats, were absent, make no mistake: this machine is a serious weapon for any hot hatch devotee.

The road from Sofala to Mudgee wasn’t just twisty; it was a symphony of hairpins and demanding corners, a true test of driving skill. Speed limits climbed to a tantalizing 110km/h, daring you to push the limits. And of the three vehicles we unleashed on this exhilarating stretch, the VZx, without a doubt, reigned supreme, devouring the tarmac with unbridled enthusiasm.

Earlier this year, I wrestled a VW Golf R along roads mirroring these. Just like its Teutonic sibling, this updated Leon boasts revamped drive modes and transmission programming – all engineered to squeeze every last drop of performance from the asphalt.

Unleash the Cupra drive profile and the transmission morphs into a beast, unlocking an "S+" mode. The turbocharger anticipates your every move, primed and ready. In automatic, prepare for a symphony of aggression – relentless revs pushed to the limit, punctuated by thrilling throttle blips on each downshift. Crave ultimate control? Shift into "M+" and the reins are yours. The engine screams to the 6500rpm redline, a defiant roar unanswered by an automatic upshift. You’re the conductor, the machine your instrument.

Fuel consumption figures from this leg are irrelevant, banished to the realm of the meaningless. Blame the Cupra mode addiction, the gearbox permanently welded to S, S+, and manual. But oh, the sheer, unadulterated speed! The Leon VZx, a front-wheel-drive demon, punches far above its weight, delivering acceleration that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

Forget pedestrian performance figures. The Leon VZx doesn’t justclaima 5.7-second sprint to 100km/h; itattacksit. Once unleashed, its 221kW and 400Nm transform into a relentless surge that rivals even the all-wheel-drive giants like the S3 and Golf R. But here’s the kicker: this front-wheel-drive beast demands to be tamed. Mastering the corners requires finesse, a delicate dance between throttle and steering. It’s this raw, untamed character that separates the VZx from the point-and-shoot predictability of its AWD brethren. Why drive an R when you can wrestle a GTI? The challenge is the reward.

The Leon devoured the serpentine road. Its electromechanical front differential, a silent puppeteer, orchestrated a seamless ballet of torque, quelling slip and banishing understeer. Power surged, relentlessly channeled through the front wheels, transforming apexes into launchpads. Each corner became an explosive exit, a testament to the car’s masterful grip.

The steering is so sharp it feels telepathic, and the Bridgestone Potenza S005s cling to the asphalt like a lovesick limpet. It’s a genuinely rewarding road car. Shame, then, about the exhaust. The quad pipes promise a symphony, but on coarse surfaces, they whisper instead of roar. A louder voice would truly uncork this car’s potential.

Regrettably, my rendezvous with the Leon VZx lacked the fiery embrace of the optional Extreme Package. For a hefty $7600, you not only get Akebono performance brakes that promise retina-detaching stopping power, but also aggressive bucket seats designed to hold you tighter than a jealous lover.

Forget needing it; it’s pure automotive swagger. Sure, you won’t unleash its potential commuting, but those bragging rights? Untouchable. And while we’re at it, can we talk about those Matrix Ultra LED headlights with graphic projection? Seriously, ditch the upgrade, make that future-tech standard.

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

2025 Cupra Leon S equipment highlights:

• 18-inch ‘Windstorm’ black and silver alloy wheels
• LED headlights
• Semi-autonomous parking assist
• Proximity entry with push-button start
• Paddle shifters
• Selectable drive modes
• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
• 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Satellite navigation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Wireless phone charger
• Sports front bucket seats
• Soul Black Dinamica upholstery
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory
• Heated front seats
• ‘Supersport’ heated steering wheel
• 6-speaker sound system
• 3-zone climate control
• Ambient lighting
• Auto-dimming interior mirror

Leon VZx adds:

• Multi-link independent suspension
• DCC adaptive dampers
• Electrohydraulic front differential locking
• Customisable engine sound modelling
• Upgraded brakes
• Tyre repair kit (replaces space-saver spare)
• Cupra drive mode
• Quad exhaust outlets
• Side skirts
• 19-inch ‘Hailstorm’ black and copper alloy wheels
• Moonslate leather-appointed seat trim
• Power-adjustable front passenger seat with memory
• 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system

Leon VZe adds (over Leon S):

• 19-inch ‘Polar’ black and copper alloy wheels
• DCC adaptive dampers
• Hands-free power tailgate
• Black roof rails
• Mode 2 & 3 charging cables
• 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system
• Power-adjustable front passenger seat with memory
• Moonslate leather-appointed seat trim

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

Options

Depending on variant, there are a handful of options available.

Overseas model shown

Leather and Sound Package: $2200 – Leon S

• Leather-appointed seats
• Power front passenger seat incl. memory
• 12-speaker Sennheiser premium audio

Extreme Package: $7600 – Leon VZx

• Cup Bucket front seats
• 6-piston Akebono performance brakes
• Matrix Ultra LED headlights (MY26)

Panoramic sunroof: $1800 – Leon Hatch

Panoramic sunroof: $2000 – Leon Sportstourer

Premium paint: $260

Matte paint: $2600 – VZe, VZx

Is the Cupra Leon safe?

The Cupra Leon wears a 2020-stamped five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on Euro NCAP tests of the related Seat Leon.

| Category | Cupra Leon | | — | — | |Adult occupant protection| 91 per cent | |Child occupant protection| 88 per cent | |Vulnerable road user protection| 71 per cent | |Safety assist| 80 per cent |

Standard safety equipment across the range includes:

• 10 airbags

• incl. front-centre
• incl. rear-side

• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Front cross-traffic assist
• Lane Assist

• Lane departure warning
• Lane-keep assist

• Parking sensors – front, rear
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Reversing camera
• Speed sign recognition
• Speed limit assist
• Travel Assist

• Adaptive cruise control
• Adaptive lane guidance – centring
• Traffic jam assist

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How much does the Cupra Leon cost to run?

The Leon range is covered by Cupra Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.

| Servicing and Warranty | Cupra Leon | | — | — | |Warranty| 5 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 5 years | |Service intervals| 12 months or 15,000 kilometres | |Capped-price servicing| 5 years | |Total capped-price service cost| $1990 (until 31 December) |

To see how the Cupra Leon lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Cupra Leon

If you’re wanting to resist the SUV trend, there’s a lot to like about Cupra’s revitalised Leon.

The Leon Hatch, still a fortress on wheels, now offers a lighter, nimbler sibling. This new model dials back the raw power – think agility over brute force – but sweetens the deal with a richer array of standard features… at a predictably premium price.

Forget SUVs, the real star of this launch is the Sportstourer. It’s a defiant breath of fresh air in a market obsessed with bulky behemoths, proving that sporty and family-friendly can still coexist in a sleek, compact package. Prepare to be surprised by just how well-rounded and capable this niche marvel truly is.

Don’t let the small numbers fool you. The 2026 Cupra Leon is a chameleon, morphing into five distinct personalities to conquer diverse desires. Even in its entry-level form, it’s a compelling alternative, ready to brawl with both the established players and the luxury upstarts.

Forget dull. The Leon ignites the road, offering a vibrant alternative that outshines the mundane Mazda 3 and Corolla. But it doesn’t stop there. It’s a stylish disruptor, challenging the luxury status quo of the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, all while eclipsing its cousins, the Audi A3 and VW Golf.

However, the ride isn’t without its bumps. Coarse surfaces amplify tire roar, and the price tag has crept up since the fire-sale days of the outgoing model. Plus, plug-in hybrid enthusiasts will have to exercise a little patience.

Those that associate connected services and remote phone app functionality with a premium vehicle experience will also be disappointed by its absence here, even if Cupra says it’s actively working on a solution with its global parent.

Forget the SUVs. My heart belongs to the Sportstourer. Okay, it might lack the all-wheel-drive muscle of its top-tier sibling, but this wagon dances! It’s a surprisingly agile, fuel-sipping workhorse that carves its own niche. Let’s be honest, in a world drowning in crossovers, the Sportstourer is a breath of fresh air – a stylish rebel. #SaveTheWagons!

In fact, I liked it so much I’m genuinely considering buying one, if that holds any weight.

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