Compare performance (325 HP vs 421 HP), boot space and price (35,200 £ vs 32,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – CUPRA Leon or Mercedes A Class?
In the world of hatchbacks, drivers are spoilt for choice. Two contenders that stand out in terms of performance and innovation are the CUPRA León and the Mercedes A-Klasse. Both models have brought fresh features and robust engineering to the road, but how do they compare? Below, we break down the technical elements and innovations that each car has to offer.
When it comes to power, the CUPRA León doesn't shy away. This hatchback is equipped with various engine configurations, including Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel, and traditional Petrol. The power output ranges from a spirited 150 HP to a fiery 300 HP. Notably, the 300 HP variant boasts a rapid acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h.
On the other hand, the Mercedes A-Klasse offers a more extensive range of power choices, from 116 HP to an exhilarating 421 HP. The A-Klasse, especially in its AMG variant, features a 0 to 100 km/h sprint as quick as 3.9 seconds, topping out at a maximum speed of 270 km/h. These figures highlight Mercedes' focus on performance-driven engineering.
Hybrid technology has taken center stage in both models. The CUPRA León Plugin Hybrid returns an impressive consumption rate of 0.4 L/100km, with an electric range of up to 131 km thanks to its 19.7 kWh battery. In comparison, the Mercedes A-Klasse Plugin Hybrid has a slightly reduced electric range of 86 km, courtesy of its 12.9 kWh battery. The A-Klasse promises a fuel consumption of 0.7 L/100km, indicating a strong commitment to efficiency.
CO2 emissions play a significant role in environmental credentials. The CUPRA León's emissions range from 9 to 175 g/km while the Mercedes ranges from 17 to 205 g/km, depending on the engine variant. For those prioritizing green driving, both brands deliver competitive options to suit varying preferences.
Both models accommodate five passengers and offer ample cargo space. The CUPRA León provides a trunk capacity of 380 liters in its petrol models, whereas the electric variant has a reduced 270 liters due to the battery placement. The Mercedes A-Klasse offers a trunk capacity ranging from 310 to 350 liters, assuring ample space for grocery runs or weekend getaways.
In terms of dimensions, the León measures approximately 4399 mm in length, 1799 mm in width, and around 1467 mm in height, showing off a sporty and robust profile. Mercedes A-Klasse is slightly larger with lengths ranging from 4428 to 4453 mm and a height around 1407 to 1423 mm, emphasizing its elegant and sleek design aesthetic.
Both the CUPRA León and Mercedes A-Klasse demonstrate unique blends of power, efficiency, and style. The CUPRA León tends to attract those looking for slightly more aggressive performance at a competitive price point, while the Mercedes A-Klasse stands out for those who may be willing to invest more for luxury and cutting-edge technologies.
Ultimately, choosing between these two revered hatchbacks depends on personal preference, whether leaning towards raw performance, eco-friendly driving, or premium styling. Both models, however, certainly enrich the drive with their own distinct flavors and relentless innovation.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Mercedes A Class is marginally cheaper – starting at 32,600 £ , while the CUPRA Leon costs 35,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 2,617 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the CUPRA Leon uses 1.3 L/100km and is clearly more efficient than the Mercedes A Class with 2.3 L/100km. The difference is about 1 L/100km.
As for electric range, the CUPRA Leon offers clearly more range – reaching up to 131 km, about 46 km more than the Mercedes A Class.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes A Class offers noticeably more power – delivering 421 HP compared to 325 HP. That’s roughly 96 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes A Class is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.9 s, while the CUPRA Leon takes 5.4 s. That’s about 1.5 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes A Class delivers slightly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm more.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, CUPRA Leon is very slightly lighter – 1,371 kg compared to 1,440 kg. The difference is around 69 kg.
Looking at boot space, the CUPRA Leon offers barely more boot space – 380 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.
When it comes to payload, the CUPRA Leon carries barely more – 493 kg compared to 485 kg. That’s a difference of about 8 kg.
The CUPRA Leon holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Cupra Leon blends sporting intent with everyday practicality, serving up sharp handling and a cabin that feels more premium than its hatchback looks might suggest. It's a driver's car in commuter clothing — lively, distinctive, and clever enough to make daily driving feel a little less routine without screaming for attention.
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The Mercedes A‑Class arrives as a compact charmer that dresses premium materials and a cockpit full of screens in a tidy, city-friendly package, delivering surprising agility and poise. For buyers who want a luxury badge, clever tech and a car that's equally happy in tight streets or on a spirited country run, the A‑Class offers a grown-up feel with a cheeky streak.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
35,200 - 50,900 £
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Price
32,600 - 66,500 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 7.6 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 9 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
124 - 131 km
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Electric Range
85 km
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Battery Capacity
19.7 kWh
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
28 - 172 g/km
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co2
53 - 205 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
40 L
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,371 - 1,708 kg
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Curb weight
1,440 - 1,695 kg
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Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
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Trunk capacity
310 - 350 L
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Length
4,399 mm
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Length
-
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Width
1,799 mm
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Width
1,796 - 1,850 mm
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Height
1,467 mm
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
1,191 L
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
432 - 493 kg
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Payload
450 - 485 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol
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Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
150 - 325 HP
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Power HP
116 - 421 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 8.9 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 9.7 s
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Max Speed
220 - 229 km/h
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
250 - 420 Nm
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Torque
200 - 500 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
110 - 239 kW
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Power kW
85 - 310 kW
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Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B, F
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, B, G
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Brand
CUPRA
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España