Cheaper plug-in hybrid Cupra Leon detailed

The 2026 Cupra Leon range will expand next month with the arrival of a new entry-level plug-in hybrid option: the Leon Ve. It brings a whisker more electric driving range but isn’t as gutsy as the established, range-topping Leon VZe.

As per the Leon VZe, the new Leon Ve comes powered by the brand’s second-gen plug-in hybrid system, comprising a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 110kW/250Nm with an electric motor delivering 85kW/330Nm.

Total combined outputs of 150kW/350Nm are down compared to the VZe (200kW/400Nm), which is only slightly quicker to launch from 0-100km/h according to Cupra, at a claimed 7.3 seconds (vs 7.7s for the Ve).

Meanwhile, a 20kWh lithium-ion battery unlocks a claimed EV-only driving range of up to 123km (WLTP); a major contributor to the claimed combined fuel consumption of 1.4L/100km.

AC charging capacity rises from 3.6kW (first-gen PHEV) to 11kW, while DC fast-charging is also offered, with Mode 2 and Mode 3 charging cables included as standard.

Unique 18-inch ‘Garbi’ alloy wheels are standard, while the cabin comes equipped with Dinamica sports bucket seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, heated steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, wireless phone charging pad, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

The new Leon Ve is available to order now and is due in local showrooms next month.

Together with the inbound VZx Sportstourer, the Ve will round out the Volkswagen-owned performance brand’s small-car lineup.

How much does the Cupra Leon cost?
S hatch – $46,990
Ve hatch – $62,990 (NEW)
VZx hatch– $64,990
VZe Sportstourer – $69,990
* Prices exclude on-road costs

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