A CUPRA WITH EXTRA SPARK(some text hidden)

By Jonathan Crouch

Ten Second Review word count: 50

The CUPRA Leon is a different sort of hot hatch - very different in the case of this PHEV e-Hybrid version, here usefully improved. This is an unusual confection, but it deserves serious consideration from anyone prioritising performance with efficiency and wanting something just a little different in this segment.

Background word count: 87

Hot hatches can these days be very socially responsible - and if you doubt that, here's one that sets out to change your mind - the CUPRA Leon e-Hybrid. It first arrived when the CUPRA Leon range was launched back in 2021 but sales have been slow. To try and push things along, as part of the CUPRA Leon update announced in Summer 2024, CUPRA has re-engineered this car's Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, giving it a longer EV range and faster DC charging. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experience word count: 251

This CUPRA may have a socially responsible powertrain but it still wants to be a hot hatch. Like other more conventional CUPRA Leons, this one get sports suspension lowered by 25mm at the front and 20mm at the rear. And a set of drive modes - 'Comfort', 'Sport' and 'CUPRA', the latter for those red mist moments. These set-ups determine throttle response, gearshift timings from the DSG 7-speed auto, steering feel and the level of artificial engine noise you'll want pumped into the cabin. An extra 'Individual' menu option allows you to set your own parameters if you don't like the pre-set ones. Under the bonnet, it's just as in the latest Golf eHybrid and GTE models, which means there's a choice of 204PS or 272PS outputs; and a 150PS 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine mated to a 6-speed DSG auto gearbox and an 85kW electric motor powered by a now-larger 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery with a WLTP-rated all-electric driving range quoted at 70 miles (up from 34 miles before). Which of course you won't get anywhere near if you explore the quoted all-electric top speed of 80mph or start trying to throw the thing around too much (an extra kerb weight addition of up to 60kgs over a conventionally-engined CUPRA Leon discourages you a bit from doing that anyway). There's 400Nm of torque on tap, which facilitates a 0-62mph time of 6.7s (7.0s for the estate) en route to 140mph flat out. Sensible family motoring was never quite as fun as this.