Two cars, one duel: Kia Ceed meets SEAT Leon.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!
The compact hatchback segment is fiercely competitive, and two models that have long been favored by European drivers are the Kia Ceed and the SEAT León. Both vehicles have entered the 2024 market with impressive offerings, blending performance, efficiency, and technology. But which car takes the crown? Let's dive into the technical details and innovations of each model.
Under the hood, the Kia Ceed offers a choice between a 1.0-liter and a 1.5-liter engine. The power output ranges from 100 to 140 HP, delivering torque between 172 and 253 Nm. These engines provide a 0-100 km/h acceleration time as swift as 9.5 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of up to 197 km/h.
In contrast, the SEAT León presents a broader selection with its petrol, mild-hybrid, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines. Its petrol and hybrid variants reach up to 150 HP, with a notable plug-in hybrid option delivering a combined power output of 272 HP. The León accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 7.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 220 km/h.
The Kia Ceed's fuel consumption ranges from 6 to 6.4 L/100 km, placing it in the CO2 efficiency class E. Conversely, the León shines in efficiency, particularly with its plug-in hybrid option offering a consumption of merely 0.4 L/100 km during its electric-only mode, categorized in CO2 efficiency classes D and B for its other engines.
Both models equip their cars with manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, providing flexibility in driving preferences. With front-wheel drive, both hatchbacks deliver reliable handling and performance suited for urban as well as highway driving.
Inside, both the Kia Ceed and SEAT León accommodate five passengers but differ slightly in trunk capacity. The Ceed offers a trunk volume ranging from 357 to 395 liters, while the León provides 380 liters. Despite being close in measurements, this difference could influence those who prioritize cargo space in daily usage.
The Kia Ceed measures 4315 to 4325 mm in length and 1800 mm in width, with a height that varies between 1442 and 1447 mm. The SEAT León is slightly longer at 4368 mm and just a bit narrower at 1799 mm, with height dimensions that vary from 1442 to 1460 mm. Both cars feature modern and sleek designs, keeping up with the latest automotive trends.
Both hatchbacks incorporate cutting-edge automotive technologies designed to improve the driving experience. Noteworthy features in both vehicles include advanced infotainment systems, connectivity options, and the latest driver assistance systems to enhance safety on the road.
The choice between the Kia Ceed and the SEAT León ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding performance, efficiency, and style. The Kia Ceed provides a straightforward and efficient package, while the SEAT León offers a wider range of powertrains, including eco-friendly hybrid options. Whichever you choose, both vehicles promise a remarkable driving experience in the compact hatchback category.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Kia Ceed has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 23500 £, while the SEAT Leon costs 24500 £. That’s a price difference of around 977 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: SEAT Leon manages with 1.20 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Kia Ceed with 6 L. The difference is about 4.80 L per 100 km.
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 convincingly edge – offering 272 HP compared to 140 HP. That’s roughly 132 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the SEAT Leon is noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 7.70 s, while the Kia Ceed takes 9.50 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the SEAT Leon performs somewhat better – reaching 220 km/h, while the Kia Ceed tops out at 197 km/h. The difference is around 23 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: SEAT Leon pulls noticeable stronger with 360 Nm compared to 253 Nm. That’s about 107 Nm difference.
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, Kia Ceed is minimal lighter – 1298 kg compared to 1344 kg. The difference is around 46 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Kia Ceed offers barely noticeable more room – 395 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 15 L.
In maximum load capacity, the SEAT Leon performs barely noticeable better – up to 1301 L, which is about 10 L more than the Kia Ceed.
When it comes to payload, SEAT Leon slight takes the win – 521 kg compared to 490 kg. That’s a difference of about 31 kg.
Overall, the SEAT Leon shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects 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.
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
The Kia Ceed is a sensible, stylish hatchback that gives buyers more than they'd expect for the money, blending practical space with crisp, modern looks. It drives with measured confidence and comes loaded with user-friendly kit, so you can enjoy daily life behind the wheel without breaking into a sweat.
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@ Kia Corporation
@ Kia Corporation
@ Kia Corporation
The SEAT Leon impresses with its dynamic design and sporty edge, making it a standout choice in its class. Its interior is characterised by a modern, driver-focused cockpit that combines functionality with an emphasis on comfort. The car delivers a responsive driving experience, thanks to its advanced engineering and agile handling capabilities.
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@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
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@ Kia Corporation
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@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
23500 - 26300 £
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Price
24500 - 36400 £
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Consumption L/100km
6 - 6.4 L
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Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 5.5 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
133 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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co2
137 - 146 g/km
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co2
27 - 126 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
50 L
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Fuel tank capacity
40 - 45 L
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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
5
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Curb weight
1298 - 1372 kg
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Curb weight
1344 - 1657 kg
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Trunk capacity
357 - 395 L
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Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
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Length
4315 mm
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Length
4368 mm
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Width
1800 mm
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Width
1799 mm
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Height
1447 mm
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Height
1442 - 1460 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1253 - 1291 L
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Max trunk capacity
1187 - 1301 L
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Payload
478 - 490 kg
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Payload
473 - 521 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
100 - 140 HP
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Power HP
116 - 272 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.5 - 13.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.7 - 10.5 s
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Max Speed
178 - 197 km/h
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Max Speed
197 - 220 km/h
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Torque
172 - 253 Nm
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Torque
220 - 360 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
74 - 103 kW
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Power kW
85 - 200 kW
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Engine capacity
998 - 1482 cm3
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Engine capacity
1498 - 1968 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
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Brand
Kia
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Brand
SEAT
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The Kia Ceed 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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