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

Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,310Avg. savings £2,449 off RRP*Used from £10,080
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,270Avg. savings £2,398 off RRP*Used from £7,500
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £38,050Avg. savings £3,270 off RRP*Used from £19,980
Toyota Yaris Cross
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Rising prices are forcing us into older cars, don't tax them as well
Opinion - Rutherford don't tax older cars

Rising prices are forcing us into older cars, don't tax them as well

Mike Rutherford argues that the tougher emissions rules must reflect that millions of Brits rely on older cars every day
Opinion
13 Sep 2026
La Cinquecento’s Fiat 500 Scattante is an Italian icon made in Britain
La Cinquecento’s 500 Scattante

La Cinquecento’s Fiat 500 Scattante is an Italian icon made in Britain

This remastered version of the original Fiat 500 was created by new outfit La Cinquecento, which plans to build only a handful each year
News
11 Sep 2026
New Skoda Epiq 2026 review: excellent in almost every way
Ellis Hyde with the Skoda Epiq

New Skoda Epiq 2026 review: excellent in almost every way

The new Skoda Epiq arrives to sit below the Elroq and Enyaq in the Czech brand’s all-electric line-up
Road tests
13 Sep 2026