@ Nissan Motor Corporation
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
VS

Nissan Qashqai vs SEAT Leon – Which model is better for everyday use?

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

Nissan Qashqai

SEAT Leon

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

A Battle of Versatility vs. Agility: Nissan Qashqai vs. SEAT León

The automotive world continually evolves as manufacturers blend innovative technology with driver demands. Two models leading the charge are the versatile Nissan Qashqai and the agile SEAT León. This comparison delves into the technical aspects, performance, and innovations that define these compelling 2024 models. Both vehicles cater to distinct but overlapping markets, making this comparison all the more intriguing.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Powertrains & Performance

The Nissan Qashqai, renowned for its SUV stance, offers a choice between petrol MHEV and full hybrid powertrains. The power output ranges from 140 to 190 HP, with available torque reaching up to 330 Nm. Its acceleration from 0-100 km/h varies between 7.9 to 10.2 seconds, depending on the setup, and it can reach a maximum speed of up to 206 km/h. The Qashqai provides options for both manual and CVT transmissions, along with choices between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.

In contrast, the SEAT León, a favorite in the hatchback segment, brings a diverse engine lineup including petrol, petrol MHEV, diesel, and a plug-in hybrid option. Power ranges from 110 to 272 HP, with torque figures up to 360 Nm. Performance is vigorous, with an 8.7 to 10.4 seconds sprint to 100 km/h and a top speed extending to 220 km/h. León offers manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions, with all options featuring front-wheel drive.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Fuel Efficiency & Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for both models. The Nissan Qashqai presents an appealing consumption range of 5.1 to 6.8 L/100km. CO2 emissions vary from 116 to 154 g/km, classified under efficiency classes E and D.

The SEAT León ups the ante with fuel consumption figures ranging from as low as 0.4 L/100km (for the plug-in hybrid) to 5.7 L/100km. Its CO2 emissions show greater eco-sensibility, ranging between 8 to 129 g/km and achieving efficiency classes from B to D, showcasing SEAT’s commitment to lower environmental impact.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Dimensional Practicality

On the practicality front, the Qashqai measures 4425 mm in length, 1835 mm in width, and 1625 mm in height. Its SUV body type translates into a spacious interior with a substantial trunk capacity of 504 liters, making it ideal for families and adventurous road trips.

The SEAT León, spanning 4368 mm in length, 1799 mm in width, and a height of between 1442 to 1460 mm, offers compact agility with remarkable handling. Despite being a hatchback, it remains practical with a trunk capacity of 380 to 270 liters, emphasizing its urban-friendly design without compromising utility.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Innovations & Features

Both vehicles capitalize on technological advancements to enhance driving experiences. The Qashqai integrates a modern infotainment system, driver assistance features, and customizable driving modes that make it adaptable for diverse driving conditions.

Meanwhile, the León captivates with its digital cockpit, connected technology options, and a special emphasis on safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane assist, which are especially prevalent in its latest model year offerings.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

The Verdict

Choosing between the Nissan Qashqai and the SEAT León ultimately depends on personal preferences and needs. If you lean towards a robust, versatile SUV with an eye for adventure and space, the Qashqai is a fitting choice. Conversely, if agile city driving, efficiency, and modern aesthetics appeal to you, the SEAT León stands as a notable contender. Both vehicles demonstrate exceptional capabilities, ensuring you can't go wrong with either option.

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

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

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

SEAT Leon has a clearly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 24500 £, while the Nissan Qashqai costs 29600 £. That’s a price difference of around 5151 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: SEAT Leon manages with 1.20 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Nissan Qashqai with 4.50 L. The difference is about 3.30 L per 100 km.

Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

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 SEAT Leon has a noticeable edge – offering 272 HP compared to 205 HP. That’s roughly 67 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai is minimal quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the SEAT Leon takes 7.70 s. That’s about 0.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the SEAT Leon performs barely noticeable better – reaching 220 km/h, while the Nissan Qashqai tops out at 206 km/h. The difference is around 14 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: SEAT Leon pulls barely noticeable stronger with 360 Nm compared to 330 Nm. That’s about 30 Nm difference.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

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, SEAT Leon is hardly perceptible lighter – 1344 kg compared to 1420 kg. The difference is around 76 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Nissan Qashqai offers distinct more room – 504 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 124 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Nissan Qashqai performs slightly better – up to 1447 L, which is about 146 L more than the SEAT Leon.

When it comes to payload, SEAT Leon hardly perceptible takes the win – 521 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 1 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.

Nissan Qashqai
SEAT Leon

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
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
details

Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai blends practical, family-friendly packaging with SUV styling that refuses to shout, making it a sensible and dependable choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable to live with, economical on the road, and neatly equipped enough to feel modern without ever feeling precious — perfect if you want crossover versatility without the drama.

details
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_005 @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_001 @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_011 @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_032 @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_022 @ Nissan Motor Corporation

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
Small-33980-LeonSEDynamic-MysteryBlue @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
Small-33989-LeonSEDynamic-MysteryBlue @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
ipp-all-new-seat-leon-114-hq @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
Small-35510-SEATLeonkeepsWhatCarAwardinthefamily @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Reviews Nissan Qashqai

Reviews SEAT Leon

Top Car Comparisons

@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Volvo Cars
Volvo XC40
VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, hard-working compact SUV that delivers excellent everyday comfort, clever interior space and strong value for money — perfect if you want a reliable family car without the premium price tag. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, is a sharper, more upscale choice with a …
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW T-Roc
VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, family-friendly compact SUV — roomy, quietly comfortable and packed with practical tech for long motorway miles. The VW T-Roc swaps a little rear-seat space for cheeky styling and sharper handling, so if you want personality and a bit more driver engagement it’s …
Nissan Qashqai
SEAT Leon
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Leon @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Consumption
Price
29600 - 39900 £
Price
24500 - 36400 £
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6.8 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
102 - 154 g/km
co2
27 - 126 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 45 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1420 - 1665 kg
Curb weight
1344 - 1657 kg
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Trunk capacity
270 - 380 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4368 mm
Width
1835 mm
Width
1799 mm
Height
1625 mm
Height
1442 - 1460 mm
Max trunk capacity
1422 - 1447 L
Max trunk capacity
1187 - 1301 L
Payload
466 - 520 kg
Payload
473 - 521 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 205 HP
Power HP
116 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.7 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
170 - 206 km/h
Max Speed
197 - 220 km/h
Torque
240 - 330 Nm
Torque
220 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
103 - 151 kW
Power kW
85 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1498 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1968 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
Brand
Nissan
Brand
SEAT

Similar Comparisons

@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Renault Group Media
Renault Austral
VS
In the ongoing rivalry between the Nissan Qashqai and the Renault Austral, both models stand out with their unique features and capabilities. The Qashqai offers a refined driving experience with its efficient engine choices and advanced safety technology, making it an ideal urban SUV. On the other …
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota C-HR
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Nissan Qashqai stands out with its spacious interior and advanced safety features, making it an ideal choice for families. On the other hand, the Toyota C-HR impresses with its bold design and fuel efficiency, appealing to younger, style-conscious buyers. …
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla Cross
VS
In the ongoing rivalry between compact SUVs and crossovers, the Nissan Qashqai and Toyota Corolla Cross stand out with their unique blend of style and practicality. The Qashqai boasts a sporty design and a more engaging driving experience, while the Corolla Cross impresses with its spacious …
@ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
MG ZS
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
VS
In the competitive compact SUV market, the MG ZS and Nissan Qashqai stand out with their unique offerings and charm. The MG ZS delivers remarkable value with its robust features and spacious interior, appealing to budget-conscious buyers, while the Nissan Qashqai impresses with its refined driving …
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
Omoda 5
VS
In the realm of compact SUVs, the Nissan Qashqai and the Omoda 5 present a compelling matchup, each vying for dominance with their distinct attributes. The Qashqai, renowned for its reliability and refined driving dynamics, offers a well-rounded package with enhanced safety features and improved …
@ Kia Corporation
Kia Ceed
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
SEAT Leon
VS
In the highly competitive compact hatchback segment, the Kia Ceed and SEAT León both stand out with their own distinctive qualities. The Kia Ceed impresses with its robust warranty and a more affordable price tag, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers. On the other hand, the …
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Opel / Stellantis Media
Opel Grandland
VS
Nissan Qashqai and Opel Grandland go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Yaris Cross
VS
In the highly competitive segment of compact SUVs, the Nissan Qashqai takes the lead with its spacious interior and intuitive technology, making it an appealing choice for families and urban drivers alike. Meanwhile, the Toyota Yaris Cross offers a more compact design with excellent fuel efficiency …
Is the Nissan Qashqai offered with different drivetrains?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-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.