Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

SEAT Leon - best hatchbacks 2018

The SEAT Leon is one of the best hatchbacks on the market at the moment

If looks matter, the SEAT Leon should be near the top of your hatchback list. The latest model is as sharp-suited as they come and its sleek profile combines crisp lines with taut curves to create a sporty looking family car. Interior quality has taken a big step up and the Leon even gives the latest VW Golf a run for its money inside – only some lower grade plastics let the side down.

Advertisement - Article continues below

SEAT has a reputation for sporty driving dynamics and the Leon won’t disappoint. Slick controls, sharp responses and entertaining dynamics are all hallmarks of the new hatchback, along with impressive refinement, and the hot FR model is a genuine cut-price alternative to the legendary Golf GTI.

Competitive prices ensure the SEAT Leon provides good value – all models come with a touchscreen display in the centre of the dashboard – and it’s more practical than ever, with a large 380-litre boot. Downsides are few, but if you don’t like reversing the limited rear visibility of the Leon won’t help matters.

The facelift in 2017 was about as subtle as can be on the outside, but SEAT added the VW Group's latest infotainment system inside, so it at least keeps pace with the revised Golf for connectivity.

Best hatchbacks to buy now

  1. 1. Volkswagen Golf
  2. 2. Mercedes A-Class
  3. 3. Skoda Octavia
  4. 4. Vauxhall Astra
  5. 5. Renault Megane
  6. 6. Honda Civic
  7. 7. SEAT Leon
  8. 8. Peugeot 308
  9. 9. Mazda 3
  10. 10. Audi A3
Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £3,637 off RRP*Used from £10,895
Toyota Yaris Cross
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,870Avg. savings £6,416 off RRP*Used from £9,695
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £11,990Avg. savings £703 off RRP*Used from £10,000
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Volvo XC40 facelift: popular SUV gets Range Rover-esque makeover
Volvo XC40 - Ellis Hyde front

New Volvo XC40 facelift: popular SUV gets Range Rover-esque makeover

The pure-electric Volvo EX40 and EC40 coupe-SUV have also been updated again, now delivering up to 359 miles of range
News
10 Sep 2026
New Volkswagen ID. Polo 2026 review: a seriously impressive small EV
Volkswagen ID. Polo - front

New Volkswagen ID. Polo 2026 review: a seriously impressive small EV

The new all-electric Volkswagen ID. Polo is stylish, has plenty of space and is great to drive
Road tests
9 Sep 2026
New Dacia Spring revealed: small EV gets 50% price hike, but a big jump in quality
Dacia Spring 2026 - Jordan Katsianis

New Dacia Spring revealed: small EV gets 50% price hike, but a big jump in quality

The new Spring will be based on the adorable Renault Twingo and built here in Europe
News
8 Sep 2026