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

Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £11,990Avg. savings £586 off RRP*Used from £9,495
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,840Avg. savings £6,187 off RRP*Used from £11,819
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,435Avg. savings £5,987 off RRP*Used from £8,995
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,045Avg. savings £4,673 off RRP*Used from £10,490
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Forget the Jaecoo 7! The Zeekr 9X is a real Chinese Range Rover lookalike
Zeekr 9X - front 3/4

Forget the Jaecoo 7! The Zeekr 9X is a real Chinese Range Rover lookalike

Move over Bentley, this is the high-end SUV Zeekr thinks buyers are looking for
News
29 Jul 2026
New Audi Q9 2026 preview: prices, specs and release date for Range Rover rival
Ellis Hyde with the Audi Q9

New Audi Q9 2026 preview: prices, specs and release date for Range Rover rival

Audi wanted its new luxury flagship to make a statement wherever it goes, and that it will
News
29 Jul 2026
Long-term test: Leapmotor B10
Leapmotor B10 - charging woes

Long-term test: Leapmotor B10

Second report: Top-up troubles at home take the shine off our electric SUV
Long-term tests
30 Jul 2026