Skip advert
Advertisement

SEAT Leon Cupra (2014-2021) review - design

Still a sharp-looking car even this close to its end date. Top-spec Cupra R models somehow defy the questionable copper accoutrements

Evo rating
  • Underlying technical make-up impressive; excellent engine, brakes and chassis tune
  • Feeling its age inside; still not the most playful of hot hatchbacks

If the interior reveals the Leon’s age, its exterior design by contrast has aged remarkably well. The crisp, confident lines remain from its original form in 2012, but they’re now augmented with up-to-date LED graphics, aggressive detailing and an overriding sense of good proportions.

Arch-filling wheels and tyres go a long way to lending the Leon Cupra its aggressive looks, and we’re a real fan of the ST estate in particular – it has a low, lean look to it that makes a Golf R estate look rather dull. We'd go for bright colours, though – while some may enjoy the subtlety of the Leon line-up, SEAT does offer some striking shades that really bring out the slashes and cuts in the bodywork.

Advertisement - Article continues below

​This is all especially impressive considering its successor, the all-new fourth-generation Leon has already been revealed, and looks no more contemporary or premium despite its even crisper LED lighting graphics and new proportions.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The Nissan GT-R is finally dead after 18 years
Nissan GT-R finishes production
News

The Nissan GT-R is finally dead after 18 years

The Nissan GT-R has finally ended production, at over 48,000 units after 18 years on sale. It’ll be missed.
28 Aug 2025
Caterham Horse prototype 2025 review – new turbo engine keeps the Seven alive
HORSE powered Caterham
Reviews

Caterham Horse prototype 2025 review – new turbo engine keeps the Seven alive

Caterham needs a replacement for Ford’s out-of-production Sigma engine. Its solution is a 1.3 turbo from Horse. We drive it
28 Aug 2025
The new Audi RS3 GT will be a track-focused farewell to the five-cylinder engine
Audi RS3 GT – front
News

The new Audi RS3 GT will be a track-focused farewell to the five-cylinder engine

Audi’s five-cylinder engine isn’t long for this world, and a new hardcore RS3 is in the works to send it off in style
26 Aug 2025