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

Ford Focus ST (Mk3) – the car world's greatest misses
Ford Focus ST Mk3
Features

Ford Focus ST (Mk3) – the car world's greatest misses

We’d hoped the 2015 Focus ST would share a good dose of its little brother’s magic. Sadly, it didn’t
28 Apr 2025
The Ferrari 296 Speciale has arrived, and it could be the most thrilling Ferrari ever
Ferrari 296 Speciale – front
News

The Ferrari 296 Speciale has arrived, and it could be the most thrilling Ferrari ever

The 296 Speciale is the latest in Ferrari's line of mid-engined road racers, packing 868bhp and LaFerrari-beating pace on track
29 Apr 2025
Manthey Racing Porsche 911 GT3 RS 2025 review – the ultimate Nürburgring toy
Porsche 911 GT3 RS Manthey front
Reviews

Manthey Racing Porsche 911 GT3 RS 2025 review – the ultimate Nürburgring toy

Did the 992 GT3 RS need to be made more extreme? Posssibly not. We're glad Manthey Racing has done it, though.
28 Apr 2025