- The Cupra Leon will survive another decade, but its electric replacement is inevitable.
- The next-generation model will utilize the VW Group’s advanced SSP platform for EVs.
- A potential discontinuation of Seat-branded Leon models could solidify Cupra’s exclusive identity.
Cupra has confirmed it will continue producing combustion-powered versions of the Leon into the next decade, but has also revealed that the model will eventually transition into an EV-only series. When the next-generation Leon finally makes the leap to electric, it will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), the same versatile architecture set to underpin a range of future VW Group electric vehicles.
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Interestingly, this transition could also spell the end of the Seat-branded version of the Leon, with Cupra potentially taking full ownership of the nameplate.
Read: Cupra Plans “Provocative Bodystyles” And “Iconic Cars” That Will Break The Norms
When the electric Leon does land, it’s expected to join Cupra’s growing EV lineup as the brand’s fourth all-electric offering, slotting alongside the Tavascan, Raval, and Born. While specifics about this distant model remain elusive, its SSP underpinnings suggest it will likely share battery packs and powertrain options with other electric cars in the VW Group portfolio.
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Plenty of Time for Petrolheads
Don’t fret if you’re partial to the current Leon’s internal combustion engines or plug-in hybrid options. According to Cupra’s CEO, Wayne Griffiths, the existing model isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Speaking to Autocar, Griffiths revealed that the current Leon will stick around “well into the next decade.” In practical terms, that could mean nearly a decade before the EV version arrives, giving buyers plenty of time to snag the gas-powered Leon before it rides off into the sunset.
“The Cupra Leon and Cupra Formentor are both based on the same platform,” Griffiths told Autocar. “We will extend those well into the next decade. If we want to go into the next decade, then we’re always going to have to take care of those cars and revitalise them. We could expect facelifts or product improvements on both, to keep them going as long as we need to.”
But Griffiths made it clear that the Leon’s days as a combustion car are numbered, adding, “After that, the next generation of Leon will definitely be electric.”
Last year’s update
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In the meantime, Cupra has already taken steps to keep the current Leon competitive. Just last April, the brand introduced a facelifted version of the model with several notable design updates. The Leon now sports a sharper, more aggressive front fascia, complete with redesigned triangular matrix LED headlights and an enlarged grille. The rear has also been refreshed, featuring updated taillights and an illuminated Cupra badge.
The current Leon is available in hatchback and Sportourer estate guises, but given that estates are losing popularity in favor of higher-riding SUVs, there’s no guarantee the future Leon will be offered as one.
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