Used Seat Leon for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,000
Average Price: Around £11,000

Seat Leon (2012-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Pleasant and easy to drive	Ride is a little firm on some versions
Spacious for passengers and luggage	Seat badge lacks prestige
Extensive range means there's something for everyone	Some rivals are more engaging to drive

Quick Summary

The third-generation Seat Leon (2012-2019) is a stylish and sporting family hatchback, sharing its MQB platform with the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. Designed to offer a more engaging driving experience than its VW counterpart, it boasts sharp looks and a wide array of features. Initially launched as a five-door hatchback, the range expanded to include a three-door Leon SC and a practical five-door ST estate, with a facelift in 2017 bringing exterior and interior refreshes. Despite being slightly shorter than its predecessor, the Leon offers improved interior space, with 380 litres of boot space in hatchback models (587 litres in the ST estate). It provides a light, eager, and responsive driving experience, with a range of frugal petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI) engines, including high-performance Cupra and FR variants. All models feature a touchscreen infotainment system, and running costs are generally low due to shared VW Group parts, making servicing affordable. It’s a dependable, practical, and often more affordable alternative to rivals like the Golf.

Best for: Drivers seeking a stylish, sporting, and practical family hatchback; those looking for good value compared to a VW Golf; buyers wanting an affordable hot hatch (Cupra/FR).

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising the absolute sharpest handling (Ford Focus, Mazda 3); those who require the premium badge appeal of an Audi or VW; those sensitive to a slightly firm ride on some versions.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Leon if: You're seeking a stylish, sporting, and practical family hatchback; you want good value compared to a VW Golf; or you're looking for an affordable hot hatch (Cupra/FR).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the absolute sharpest handling; require premium badge appeal; or are sensitive to a slightly firm ride on some versions.

Competitive Position: The Seat Leon (2012-2019) offers a compelling alternative to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. It stands out with its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and practical interior, often at a more affordable price point than its VW Group cousins. While some rivals may offer sharper handling or greater badge prestige, the Leon's extensive range of engines, low running costs, and overall dependability make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a versatile family car, including potent Cupra variants.

Read our full Seat Leon Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.