Cupra has confirmed plans to continue producing combustion-powered versions of the Leon model into the next decade, but the brand has also announced that the next-generation Leon will eventually transition to an all-electric offering. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s versatile Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), the electric Leon will share its underpinnings with a range of future EVs from the group.
Cupra’s CEO, Wayne Griffiths, emphasized that the current Leon will remain available for several years. “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.” This extension could see the Leon retain combustion and plug-in hybrid versions until the next decade, with potential facelifts and product improvements to maintain its competitiveness.
However, the electric transition may signal the end of the Seat-branded version of the Leon, as Cupra is poised to take full ownership of the nameplate in the future.
The next-generation Leon, once electric, is expected to join Cupra’s growing EV lineup, which includes the Tavascan, Raval, and Born models. Though specifics remain scarce, it is anticipated that the electric Leon will feature shared battery and powertrain options with other VW Group EVs.
In the meantime, Cupra has already introduced a facelifted version of the current Leon, which includes updates such as a more aggressive front design, triangular matrix LED headlights, and redesigned taillights.
The Leon remains available in both hatchback and Sportourer estate versions, although the future electric version may focus more on hatchback offerings, given the diminishing popularity of estates in favor of SUVs.