@ Hyundai Motor Company
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
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Hyundai i20 vs SEAT Leon – Which car suits you better?

Two cars, one duel: Hyundai i20 meets SEAT Leon.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company

The automotive world is filled with compact hatchbacks that offer a blend of efficiency, technology, and design. In this comparison, we pit the Hyundai i20 against the SEAT León, two stalwarts of the hatchback segment that have garnered attention for their innovative features and driving dynamics.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Design and Dimensions

The Hyundai i20 presents a contemporary hatchback silhouette, measuring 4,075 mm in length and 1,775 mm in width, with a height of around 1,455 mm. Its aggressive front fascia and sleek lines contribute to its modern aesthetic.

On the other hand, the SEAT León, slightly larger at 4,368 mm in length and 1,799 mm in width with a height of 1,460 mm, boasts a sportier and more dynamic design. Both vehicles feature five doors and are designed to maximize space efficiency for passengers and cargo.

i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company

Powertrains and Performance

Under the hood, the Hyundai i20 offers a choice between a petrol engine with two outputs of 79 HP and 100 HP. The i20 boasts a remarkable fuel efficiency with consumption figures of 5.1 to 5.3 L/100km, depending on the variant selected. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in between 11.1 to 13.7 seconds, which is respectable for its class.

The SEAT León provides a broader range of powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants, with power outputs ranging from 110 HP in the base model to an impressive 272 HP in the PHEV variant. Its acceleration capabilities are even more robust, with figures as low as 7.7 seconds for the fastest model, combined with fuel consumption ranging from 4.5 to 5.7 L/100km.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Driving Dynamics

Both models embrace a front-wheel-drive layout, ensuring that they handle effectively. The i20, with a curb weight of around 1190 kg for its heavier variants, promises a nimble driving experience, making it ideal for urban environments.

Conversely, the León’s heavier variants, tipping the scales at over 1440 kg, still provide a sporty feel, particularly when paired with its more powerful engines. The León's agility is enhanced by its robust chassis and advanced suspension setups, which deliver a more engaging driving experience compared to its sibling.

i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Hyundai i20 is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. It comfortably seats five and offers a trunk capacity of 352 liters, making it practical for everyday use. The dashboard is highlighted by an intuitive touchscreen interface that includes smartphone integration capabilities.

The SEAT León, however, ups the ante with a more premium interior feel, spaciousness, and additional trunk capacity of 380 liters. Its infotainment system is equally advanced, featuring a customizable display and a suite of connectivity options that enhance the driving experience.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

Both vehicles are designed with fuel efficiency in mind. The Hyundai i20 achieves competitive CO2 emissions ranging from 117 to 120 g/km, classifying it within the D category for emissions.

The León's environmental credentials are notable, particularly in its hybrid variants, with emissions as low as 99 g/km, allowing it to secure a B rating. This makes it an attractive option for those conscious of reducing their carbon footprint.

i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

In conclusion, choosing between the Hyundai i20 and the SEAT León boils down to what you prioritize in a hatchback. If you lean towards a more economical and value-for-money option with a modern design, the i20 could be the perfect choice. However, if performance, a wider range of engine options, and cutting-edge technology are what you seek, the SEAT León stands out as a formidable contender.

Both cars offer compelling features, driving experiences, and innovations to cater to a diverse audience of hatchback enthusiasts, ensuring that buyers will find satisfaction with either option.

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

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Hyundai i20 has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17400 £, while the SEAT Leon costs 24500 £. That’s a price difference of around 7054 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: SEAT Leon manages with 1.20 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Hyundai i20 with 5.20 L. The difference is about 4 L per 100 km.

i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the SEAT Leon has a decisively edge – offering 272 HP compared to 100 HP. That’s roughly 172 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the SEAT Leon is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 7.70 s, while the Hyundai i20 takes 11.10 s. That’s about 3.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the SEAT Leon performs to a small extent better – reaching 220 km/h, while the Hyundai i20 tops out at 183 km/h. The difference is around 37 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: SEAT Leon pulls clearly stronger with 360 Nm compared to 200 Nm. That’s about 160 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Hyundai i20 is noticeable lighter – 1088 kg compared to 1344 kg. The difference is around 256 kg.

In terms of boot space, the SEAT Leon offers barely noticeable more room – 380 L compared to 352 L. That’s a difference of about 28 L.

In maximum load capacity, the SEAT Leon performs somewhat better – up to 1301 L, which is about 136 L more than the Hyundai i20.

When it comes to payload, SEAT Leon slight takes the win – 521 kg compared to 472 kg. That’s a difference of about 49 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the SEAT Leon shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £24,500
Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

SEAT Leon

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.2 - 5.5 L
  • Electric Range : 133 km

Hyundai i20

4 (1)
rate

The Hyundai i20 is a cheeky small car that mixes smart styling with sensible practicality, feeling more polished and roomy than you might expect for the money. It’s an easy car to live with, offering engaging handling, a comfy cabin and useful equipment that make daily commutes and weekend errands notably less dull.

details

SEAT Leon

SEAT Leon pairs sharp, modern styling with a cabin that's sensible and slightly sporty, making it an appealing choice for buyers who want flair without fuss. It drives with eager composure and offers a neat balance of comfort and agility, so you get everyday usability with a wink of fun.

details
Hyundai i20
SEAT Leon
i20 @ Hyundai Motor Company
Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Consumption

Price
17400 - 24000 £
Price
24500 - 36400 £
Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 5.3 L
Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 5.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
133 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
119 - 121 g/km
co2
27 - 126 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 45 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1088 - 1190 kg
Curb weight
1344 - 1657 kg
Trunk capacity
352 L
Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
Length
4065 - 4075 mm
Length
4368 mm
Width
1775 mm
Width
1799 mm
Height
1450 - 1455 mm
Height
1442 - 1460 mm
Max trunk capacity
1165 L
Max trunk capacity
1187 - 1301 L
Payload
450 - 472 kg
Payload
473 - 521 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
79 - 100 HP
Power HP
116 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
11.1 - 13.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.7 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
166 - 183 km/h
Max Speed
197 - 220 km/h
Torque
113 - 200 Nm
Torque
220 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
58 - 74 kW
Power kW
85 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
998 - 1197 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1968 cm3

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
SEAT
What drivetrain options does the Hyundai i20 have?

The Hyundai i20 is offered with 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.