@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ Peugeot / Stellantis Media
VS

CUPRA Leon vs Peugeot 308 SW – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: CUPRA Leon or Peugeot 308 SW?

Leon @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

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 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

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 @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

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 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

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 @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

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 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

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 @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Peugeot 308 SW has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 30100 £, while the CUPRA Leon costs 31800 £. That’s a price difference of around 1637 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: CUPRA Leon manages with 1.30 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Peugeot 308 SW with 2.30 L. The difference is about 1 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Peugeot 308 SW performs convincingly better – achieving up to 410 km, about 279 km more than the CUPRA Leon.

308 SW @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

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 has a distinct edge – offering 300 HP compared to 195 HP. That’s roughly 105 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Leon is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Peugeot 308 SW takes 7.70 s. That’s about 2 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the CUPRA Leon performs barely noticeable better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Peugeot 308 SW tops out at 225 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: CUPRA Leon pulls clearly perceptible stronger with 400 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

Leon @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

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 curb weight, CUPRA Leon is minimal lighter – 1371 kg compared to 1484 kg. The difference is around 113 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Peugeot 308 SW offers evident more room – 551 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 171 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Peugeot 308 SW performs somewhat better – up to 1483 L, which is about 182 L more than the CUPRA Leon.

When it comes to payload, Peugeot 308 SW minimal takes the win – 508 kg compared to 504 kg. That’s a difference of about 4 kg.

Who wins the race?

The CUPRA Leon proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
CUPRA Leon is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £31,800
Leon @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

CUPRA Leon

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 300 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.3 - 7.7 L
  • Electric Range : 124 - 131 km

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.

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Peugeot 308 SW

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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
Leon @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
308 SW @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
31800 - 49200 £
Price
30100 - 43800 £
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 7.7 L
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 5.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.20 kWh
Electric Range
124 - 131 km
Electric Range
78 - 410 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
0.40 kWh
co2
28 - 175 g/km
co2
0 - 130 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 50 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
1371 - 1708 kg
Curb weight
1484 - 1783 kg
Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
467 - 551 L
Length
4398 - 4399 mm
Length
4636 mm
Width
1799 mm
Width
1852 mm
Height
1444 - 1467 mm
Height
1438 mm
Max trunk capacity
1191 - 1301 L
Max trunk capacity
1402 - 1483 L
Payload
432 - 504 kg
Payload
417 - 508 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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 - 300 HP
Power HP
131 - 195 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 8.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.7 - 10.9 s
Max Speed
213 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 225 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 221 kW
Power kW
96 - 144 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 - 1598 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B, A
Brand
CUPRA
Brand
Peugeot
What drive types are available for the CUPRA Leon?

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.