Cupra Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid VZ 272 ch

The rear has also been redesigned, with new lights incorporating the three iconic triangles and a light strip running across the boot, with the Cupra logo at its centre. In profile, the 19-inch wheels, with their characteristic Cupra copper detailing, make it clear from the outset that this car is a sporty model, while the diffuser at the rear discreetly incorporates imitation tailpipes and gives it that added aerodynamic look.

A somewhat timid DSG
In addition to the aesthetic changes, the Cupra Leon PHEV is powered by a new 272hp rechargeable hybrid powertrain borrowed from the VW Group and introduced on the Passat and Tiguan.

Dropping the old 1.4 TSI, this new platform combines a 4-cylinder 1.5L TSI Evo2 combustion engine, with 177hp and 250Nm, and a variable geometry turbo (reduced reaction time, more ON/OFF feel and improved combustion) with a 116hp and 330Nm permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. Together, they deliver a combined power output of 272hp and 400Nm of torque, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds. Acceleration is brisk and dynamic, thanks to the instant torque that comes courtesy of the electric motor.

At normal speed, the 6-speed DSG automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes, whether in electric, combustion or hybrid mode. Adopt a sportier driving style, however, and you’ll find the engine is a little slow to start up and tends to scream because the DSG is a somewhat timid.

The driver can simply adjust the car’s behaviour via a series of driving modes available using the Cupra button on the steering wheel (Comfort, Sport, CUPRA or Individual), which adapt the responsiveness of the accelerator, the firmness of the suspension and the steering assist.

DCC-controlled suspension means that suspension is firmer when driving in the Sport and Cupra modes, while the steering is harder and you’ll hear a raucous sound through a loudspeaker. On twisty roads, the steering is precise and the Sportstourer’s rigid chassis offers a sure-footed ride, notably due to its XDS electronic limited-slip differential.

Consumption that takes some management
Fitted with an NMC battery with a net capacity of 19.6kWh, the Cupra Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid 272 offers a range of up to 124km in fully electronic mode and in ideal conditions – perfect for daily urban or suburban journeys without using fuel. In hybrid mode (electric motor + internal combustion engine), meanwhile, this range increases to give a combined fuel consumption level of 0.5L/100km (WLTP cycle) if the battery is sufficiently charged. We achieved more like 3L/100km in hybrid mode during our test drive.

Intelligent Hybrid mode reduces electric assistance to a minimum, meaning that the combustion engine runs almost continuously, which increases fuel consumption considerably due to the weight of the battery (the vehicle we test drove weighed 1,828kg empty).

This new-generation Leon is now equipped with a 50kW DC charger, enabling it to recharge from 10 to 80% in 26 minutes on a rapid (DC) charger or in 2.5 hours on an 11kW accelerated (AC) charger.

A passenger compartment designed for comfort and entertainment
The vibe inside our test model with its VZ trim was decidedly sporty, complete with (heated electric memory) bucket seats that were very welcoming and offered excellent support, and a (heated) Cupra steering wheel with a mode selector and start button. The new 12.9” driver-facing central screen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offers quite an intuitive interface, once you’ve got used to it, and can be used to control the multimedia system, navigation and driving parameters. The climate control settings are still touch-sensitive but now have little shortcuts on the front, while the 10.25” virtual cockpit displays the clock based on the driver’s preferences. A strip of light running around the dashboard and up to the front half-doors creates a cocoon-like effect, while on the sound front, the model we tested was fitted with a Sennheiser sound system featuring 11 speakers and a sub-woofer that’s sure to be a hit with those who love a good bit of sound!

The rear seats, for their part, are comfortable (except for the middle seat, which is a little hard) and don’t give the impression of being locked in thanks to the panoramic sunroof, and passengers can even adjust the temperature themselves using the centre console and charge their devices using the 2 USB-C sockets. The plastic parts on the rear doors are pretty hard but of a decent quality.

The boot capacity on the PHEV version is 470L, as opposed to 620L for the self-charging version, which is still plenty to hold a small family’s worth of luggage.

The Cupra Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid is also equipped with the latest driving aids, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, intelligent speed adaptation and automatic emergency braking, ensuring a safe and relaxing driving experience. The driving aids can be easily switched off via the steering wheel or the display.

An appealing new identity
Now available with a wide range of engines ranging from 150 to 333hp, Cupra aims to broaden its target customer base with a new semi-premium band identity – a definite step towards the upper end of the market, but there is still room for improvement in relation to its competitors, especially at this price. The model we test drove, for example, is priced at €55,815 (starting price of the 272hp e-Hybrid: €50,410).

Although prices are on the rise, day-to-day electric use can prove economical in the long term, provided that the various modes are used properly. Thrill-seekers will be pleased to know that a 333hp 2.0L TSI combustion version is also available!

Technical specifications:

• Power: 200kW (272hp) /400Nm (combined)
• Consumption: 0.5L/100km (combined) – 16.9kWh/100 (electric) depending on WLTP cycle
• CO₂ emissions: 10g CO₂/km depending on WLTP cycle
• Charge: AC – 11kW / DC – 50kW
• Range: 122km (in electric mode)
• Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 7.3s
• Base price: €50,410

Our opinion:

The pros:

• Range in 100% electric mode
• Low fuel consumption if charged regularly
• Controlled suspension
• Sporty estate car look

The cons:

• High fuel consumption if battery is run down
• Weight of the vehicle
• Gearbox a little hesitant for sporty driving
• Reduced boot space due to battery

By Loïc Schiocchet