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

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation
MST Mk1 Evo front
News

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation

MST’s Mk1 Evo is a tarmac rally weapon that only vaguely resembles a Ford Escort
7 Jul 2026
One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate
Niels van Roij Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage front
News

One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate

If a Ferrari FF isn’t quite to your taste, or a bit too common, why not commission a coachbuilder for a one-off 599 shooting brake?
8 Jul 2026
The Red Bull RB17 is alive: F1 stars to drive 15,000rpm V10 special at Goodwood
Red Bull RB17
News

The Red Bull RB17 is alive: F1 stars to drive 15,000rpm V10 special at Goodwood

Red Bull’s rival to the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro and GMA T.50s Niki Lauda goes to the ultimate extreme, and we'll see it in action for the first …
8 Jul 2026