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CUPRA Leon vs Peugeot 308 SW comparison

Compare performance (325 HP vs 195 HP), boot space and price (35,200 £ vs 30,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – CUPRA Leon or Peugeot 308 SW?

CUPRA Leon vs Peugeot 308 SW: Key differences

CUPRA Leon

  • noticeably more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • marginally lighter
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Peugeot 308 SW

4.5 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly cheaper
  • clearly more electric range
  • clearly more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Leon

Introduction: CUPRA León vs Peugeot 308 SW

When it comes to choosing a compact car that combines style, performance, and practicality, the CUPRA León and Peugeot 308 SW stand out in the automotive market. Both vehicles offer unique features and innovations, making them attractive options for buyers who seek reliability and versatility in their driving experience. In this comparison, we’ll delve into the technical specifications and innovations of both models, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

308 SW

Engine and Performance

The CUPRA León is available with a variety of impressive powertrains, ranging from a petrol hybrid engine producing 150 HP to the high-performance 300 HP variant. This hatchback is designed for those who relish a thrilling driving experience. The petrol engine variants offer commendable fuel consumption as low as 5.5 L/100km, making it efficient for daily commutes. On the flip side, the Peugeot 308 SW offers a mixed bag of engines, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants with outputs from 130 HP to as high as 225 HP. The 308 SW’s diesel engine is also worth noting, boasting economical fuel consumption as low as 5.1 L/100km.

For acceleration enthusiasts, the CUPRA León shines—particularly the 300 HP variant, which can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The Peugeot 308 SW performs respectably too, with a best “0-100” time of 7.6 seconds for the top 225 HP model. Both models come equipped with front-wheel drive and offer MANUAL or AUTOMATIC transmission options, providing flexibility for different driving styles.

Leon

Electric and Hybrid Innovations

One of the notable aspects of both vehicles is their commitment to hybrid technology. The CUPRA León features a plug-in hybrid variant with an electric range of up to 131 km and a battery capacity of 19.7 kWh. This can reduce your carbon footprint while maintaining an exhilarating driving experience. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 308 SW impressively extends this aspect with electric version capabilities that offer an astounding range of 410 km, supported by a larger battery capacity of up to 51 kWh.

In terms of efficiency, the Peugeot leads the pack in electric consumption with figures as low as 15.3 kWh/100km, underscoring its position as a more eco-friendly option for those prioritizing electric driving.

308 SW

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

Comfort and practicality are key in today’s automotive landscape, and both the León and 308 SW deliver in this aspect. The CUPRA León comes with a trunk capacity of 380 L, which is decent for a compact hatchback. However, the Peugeot 308 SW leads significantly in this category with up to 608 L of cargo space, making it the more practical choice for families or those needing extra luggage capacity.

Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, but the spaciousness in the 308 SW gives it an edge when it comes to family trips or long journeys. With a length of 4636mm, the Peugeot also offers more legroom and headroom compared to the 4398mm length of the CUPRA León.

Leon

Design and Style

Design is a subjective aspect, but both the CUPRA León and Peugeot 308 SW present contemporary looks that appeal to discerning drivers. The CUPRA León radiates sportiness with sharp lines, aggressive front fascia, and sporty accents that hint at its performance capabilities. On the other hand, the Peugeot 308 SW brings a more elegant, sophisticated approach with its sleek silhouette and premium finishes, appealing to those looking for a touch of class.

308 SW

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

Ultimately, the decision between the CUPRA León and the Peugeot 308 SW will depend on the buyer’s needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful hatchback with a sporty flair and solid performance, the CUPRA León is the way to go. However, if practicality, spaciousness, and hybrid technology are your priorities, the Peugeot 308 SW emerges as the better option. Both models exemplify the combination of style and performance in their own unique ways, ensuring a captivating driving experience for every type of driver.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Leon

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Peugeot 308 SW is slightly cheaper – starting at 30,100 £ , while the CUPRA Leon costs 35,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,065 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the CUPRA Leon uses 1.3 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Peugeot 308 SW with 2.3 L/100km. The difference is about 1 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Peugeot 308 SW offers clearly more range – reaching up to 444 km, about 313 km more than the CUPRA Leon.

308 SW

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the CUPRA Leon offers noticeably more power – delivering 325 HP compared to 195 HP. That’s roughly 130 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Leon is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 5.4 s, while the Peugeot 308 SW takes 7.7 s. That’s about 2.3 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the CUPRA Leon is very slightly faster – reaching 229 km/h, while the Peugeot 308 SW tops out at 225 km/h. The difference is around 4 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the CUPRA Leon delivers noticeably more torque with 420 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 120 Nm more.

Leon

Space and Everyday Use:

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 marginally lighter – 1,371 kg compared to 1,484 kg. The difference is around 113 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Peugeot 308 SW offers clearly more boot space – 551 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 171 L.

For maximum load capacity, the Peugeot 308 SW offers a bit more capacity – up to 1,483 L, about 292 L more than the CUPRA Leon.

When it comes to payload, the Peugeot 308 SW carries only slightly more – 508 kg compared to 493 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The CUPRA Leon is far ahead overall 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.

from £35,200
Leon

CUPRA Leon

  • Engine Type : Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 325 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.3 - 7.6 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 124 - 131 km
CUPRA Leon
Peugeot 308 SW

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

CUPRA Leon

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.

details

Peugeot 308 SW

The Peugeot 308 SW blends French flair with estate practicality, dressing up daily chores in a surprisingly handsome package. Inside it's cleverly laid out and comfortable, and the composed, entertaining drive makes family duty feel a little less like a chore.

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CUPRA Leon
Peugeot 308 SW

Costs and Consumption

Price
35,200 - 50,900 £
Price
30,100 - 43,800 £
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 5.1 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.2 - 15.7 kWh/100km
Electric Range
124 - 131 km
Electric Range
78 - 444 km
Battery Capacity
19.7 kWh
Battery Capacity
0.4 kWh
co2
28 - 172 g/km
co2
0 - 134 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 L
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 52 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1,371 - 1,708 kg
Curb weight
1,484 - 1,783 kg
Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
467 - 551 L
Length
4,399 mm
Length
4,636 mm
Width
1,799 mm
Width
1,852 mm
Height
1,467 mm
Height
1,438 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,191 L
Max trunk capacity
1,402 - 1,483 L
Payload
432 - 493 kg
Payload
417 - 508 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Electric
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 325 HP
Power HP
131 - 195 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 8.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.7 - 10.9 s
Max Speed
220 - 229 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 225 km/h
Torque
250 - 420 Nm
Torque
230 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 239 kW
Power kW
96 - 144 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,598 cm3

General

Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B, A
Brand
CUPRA
Brand
Peugeot
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.