Two cars, one duel: CUPRA Leon meets Mercedes A-Class.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!
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.
CUPRA Leon has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 31800 £, while the Mercedes A-Class costs 32300 £. That’s a price difference of around 505 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: CUPRA Leon manages with 1.30 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Mercedes A-Class with 2.30 L. The difference is about 1 L per 100 km.
As for range, the CUPRA Leon performs noticeable better – achieving 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 has a slight edge – offering 320 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 20 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes A-Class is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 4.70 s, while the CUPRA Leon takes 5.70 s. That’s about 1 s faster.
There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 250 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes A-Class pulls somewhat stronger with 450 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 50 Nm difference.
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 curb weight, CUPRA Leon is slight lighter – 1371 kg compared to 1440 kg. The difference is around 69 kg.
In terms of boot space, the CUPRA Leon offers barely noticeable more room – 380 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.
In maximum load capacity, the CUPRA Leon performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1301 L, which is about 111 L more than the Mercedes A-Class.
When it comes to payload, CUPRA Leon slight takes the win – 504 kg compared to 485 kg. That’s a difference of about 19 kg.
The CUPRA Leon proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
CUPRA Leon is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
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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@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
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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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
31800 - 49200 £
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Price
32300 - 55600 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 7.7 L
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Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 8.3 L
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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
19.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
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co2
28 - 175 g/km
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co2
53 - 188 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
40 - 50 L
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Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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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
5
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Curb weight
1371 - 1708 kg
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Curb weight
1440 - 1695 kg
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Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
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Trunk capacity
310 - 350 L
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Length
4398 - 4399 mm
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Length
4428 - 4447 mm
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Width
1799 mm
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Width
1796 mm
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Height
1444 - 1467 mm
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Height
1407 - 1423 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1191 - 1301 L
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Max trunk capacity
1125 - 1190 L
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Payload
432 - 504 kg
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Payload
475 - 485 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
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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 - 300 HP
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Power HP
116 - 320 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 8.9 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.7 - 9.7 s
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Max Speed
213 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
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Torque
250 - 400 Nm
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Torque
200 - 450 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
110 - 221 kW
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Power kW
85 - 235 kW
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Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
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Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, D, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G
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Brand
CUPRA
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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The CUPRA Leon is available as Front-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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