Latest news with #Leon
The Advertiser
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Cupra Formentor: Updated top-seller delayed to 2026
Cupra Australia's most popular model won't be getting updated until next year, with the brand's local product boss confirming the facelifted Formentor has been delayed again until 2026. Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer said the updated crossover range will now land in "early 2026", despite initially being slated for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June). That means the facelifted Formentor will hit Australian showrooms nearly two years after it was revealed in Europe, and more than a year since it first hit the road overseas. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Still, despite its advancing age, the original Formentor comfortably remains Cupra's top-seller in Australia, with 909 units registered to the end of June 2025 – an increase of 50 per cent on the first half of 2024. The Formentor was one of three models with which the Cupra brand was launched in Australia in mid-2022, alongside the Leon hatchback and Ateca mid-size SUV, which is now in runout Second spot in the brand's stable goes to the now sold-out Born electric hatch, which found 309 new homes in the same period. A distant third goes to the new Tavascan electric SUV 'coupe', which has notched up 170 deliveries since its launch in March. Mr Shafer didn't provide an update on which versions of the facelifted Formentor will be offered locally, but you can expect an 'S mHEV' entry-level variant as well as a pumped-up 245kW VZx 4Drive performance hero with the same drivetrain and rear torque splitter tech as the related Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch. In between, there's likely to be at least one of the e-Hybrid PHEVs – which are available globally in 150kW or 200kW tunes. Cupra Australia has previously indicated a 150kW 2.0 TSI 4Drive version would also make it here, and if that's still the case it's likely be badged as the Formentor V. The new Formentor will follow the updated Leon Hatch and Sportstourer (wagon) models, which are due to land Down Under in October. Cupra is in the thick of a global product offensive, which has included the all-new Tavascan and Terramar SUVs, the facelifted Leon and Formentor ranges, as well as the Born VZ and the upcoming Raval baby EV, which will be revealed next year. As a result of this range-wide overhaul, the Spanish brand expects its continued global sales growth to be reflected in Australia after the brand's year-end sales decline in 2024. Cupra Australia's fortunes are up so far in 2025, with 40.3 per cent sales growth to June 30. This has largely been driven by a resurgence in Formentor sales off the back of runout deals, as well as clearance deals on the now sold-out Born. MORE: Explore the Cupra Formentor showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia's most popular model won't be getting updated until next year, with the brand's local product boss confirming the facelifted Formentor has been delayed again until 2026. Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer said the updated crossover range will now land in "early 2026", despite initially being slated for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June). That means the facelifted Formentor will hit Australian showrooms nearly two years after it was revealed in Europe, and more than a year since it first hit the road overseas. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Still, despite its advancing age, the original Formentor comfortably remains Cupra's top-seller in Australia, with 909 units registered to the end of June 2025 – an increase of 50 per cent on the first half of 2024. The Formentor was one of three models with which the Cupra brand was launched in Australia in mid-2022, alongside the Leon hatchback and Ateca mid-size SUV, which is now in runout Second spot in the brand's stable goes to the now sold-out Born electric hatch, which found 309 new homes in the same period. A distant third goes to the new Tavascan electric SUV 'coupe', which has notched up 170 deliveries since its launch in March. Mr Shafer didn't provide an update on which versions of the facelifted Formentor will be offered locally, but you can expect an 'S mHEV' entry-level variant as well as a pumped-up 245kW VZx 4Drive performance hero with the same drivetrain and rear torque splitter tech as the related Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch. In between, there's likely to be at least one of the e-Hybrid PHEVs – which are available globally in 150kW or 200kW tunes. Cupra Australia has previously indicated a 150kW 2.0 TSI 4Drive version would also make it here, and if that's still the case it's likely be badged as the Formentor V. The new Formentor will follow the updated Leon Hatch and Sportstourer (wagon) models, which are due to land Down Under in October. Cupra is in the thick of a global product offensive, which has included the all-new Tavascan and Terramar SUVs, the facelifted Leon and Formentor ranges, as well as the Born VZ and the upcoming Raval baby EV, which will be revealed next year. As a result of this range-wide overhaul, the Spanish brand expects its continued global sales growth to be reflected in Australia after the brand's year-end sales decline in 2024. Cupra Australia's fortunes are up so far in 2025, with 40.3 per cent sales growth to June 30. This has largely been driven by a resurgence in Formentor sales off the back of runout deals, as well as clearance deals on the now sold-out Born. MORE: Explore the Cupra Formentor showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia's most popular model won't be getting updated until next year, with the brand's local product boss confirming the facelifted Formentor has been delayed again until 2026. Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer said the updated crossover range will now land in "early 2026", despite initially being slated for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June). That means the facelifted Formentor will hit Australian showrooms nearly two years after it was revealed in Europe, and more than a year since it first hit the road overseas. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Still, despite its advancing age, the original Formentor comfortably remains Cupra's top-seller in Australia, with 909 units registered to the end of June 2025 – an increase of 50 per cent on the first half of 2024. The Formentor was one of three models with which the Cupra brand was launched in Australia in mid-2022, alongside the Leon hatchback and Ateca mid-size SUV, which is now in runout Second spot in the brand's stable goes to the now sold-out Born electric hatch, which found 309 new homes in the same period. A distant third goes to the new Tavascan electric SUV 'coupe', which has notched up 170 deliveries since its launch in March. Mr Shafer didn't provide an update on which versions of the facelifted Formentor will be offered locally, but you can expect an 'S mHEV' entry-level variant as well as a pumped-up 245kW VZx 4Drive performance hero with the same drivetrain and rear torque splitter tech as the related Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch. In between, there's likely to be at least one of the e-Hybrid PHEVs – which are available globally in 150kW or 200kW tunes. Cupra Australia has previously indicated a 150kW 2.0 TSI 4Drive version would also make it here, and if that's still the case it's likely be badged as the Formentor V. The new Formentor will follow the updated Leon Hatch and Sportstourer (wagon) models, which are due to land Down Under in October. Cupra is in the thick of a global product offensive, which has included the all-new Tavascan and Terramar SUVs, the facelifted Leon and Formentor ranges, as well as the Born VZ and the upcoming Raval baby EV, which will be revealed next year. As a result of this range-wide overhaul, the Spanish brand expects its continued global sales growth to be reflected in Australia after the brand's year-end sales decline in 2024. Cupra Australia's fortunes are up so far in 2025, with 40.3 per cent sales growth to June 30. This has largely been driven by a resurgence in Formentor sales off the back of runout deals, as well as clearance deals on the now sold-out Born. MORE: Explore the Cupra Formentor showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia's most popular model won't be getting updated until next year, with the brand's local product boss confirming the facelifted Formentor has been delayed again until 2026. Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer said the updated crossover range will now land in "early 2026", despite initially being slated for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June). That means the facelifted Formentor will hit Australian showrooms nearly two years after it was revealed in Europe, and more than a year since it first hit the road overseas. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Still, despite its advancing age, the original Formentor comfortably remains Cupra's top-seller in Australia, with 909 units registered to the end of June 2025 – an increase of 50 per cent on the first half of 2024. The Formentor was one of three models with which the Cupra brand was launched in Australia in mid-2022, alongside the Leon hatchback and Ateca mid-size SUV, which is now in runout Second spot in the brand's stable goes to the now sold-out Born electric hatch, which found 309 new homes in the same period. A distant third goes to the new Tavascan electric SUV 'coupe', which has notched up 170 deliveries since its launch in March. Mr Shafer didn't provide an update on which versions of the facelifted Formentor will be offered locally, but you can expect an 'S mHEV' entry-level variant as well as a pumped-up 245kW VZx 4Drive performance hero with the same drivetrain and rear torque splitter tech as the related Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch. In between, there's likely to be at least one of the e-Hybrid PHEVs – which are available globally in 150kW or 200kW tunes. Cupra Australia has previously indicated a 150kW 2.0 TSI 4Drive version would also make it here, and if that's still the case it's likely be badged as the Formentor V. The new Formentor will follow the updated Leon Hatch and Sportstourer (wagon) models, which are due to land Down Under in October. Cupra is in the thick of a global product offensive, which has included the all-new Tavascan and Terramar SUVs, the facelifted Leon and Formentor ranges, as well as the Born VZ and the upcoming Raval baby EV, which will be revealed next year. As a result of this range-wide overhaul, the Spanish brand expects its continued global sales growth to be reflected in Australia after the brand's year-end sales decline in 2024. Cupra Australia's fortunes are up so far in 2025, with 40.3 per cent sales growth to June 30. This has largely been driven by a resurgence in Formentor sales off the back of runout deals, as well as clearance deals on the now sold-out Born. MORE: Explore the Cupra Formentor showroom Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Cupra Formentor: Updated top-seller delayed to 2026
Cupra Australia's most popular model won't be getting updated until next year, with the brand's local product boss confirming the facelifted Formentor has been delayed again until 2026. Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer said the updated crossover range will now land in 'early 2026', despite initially being slated for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June). That means the facelifted Formentor will hit Australian showrooms nearly two years after it was revealed in Europe, and more than a year since it first hit the road overseas. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model 'the right time in the sun', as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. 'It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun,' Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. 'These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective.' However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Still, despite its advancing age, the original Formentor comfortably remains Cupra's top-seller in Australia, with 909 units registered to the end of June 2025 – an increase of 50 per cent on the first half of 2024. The Formentor was one of three models with which the Cupra brand was launched in Australia in mid-2022, alongside the Leon hatchback and Ateca mid-size SUV, which is now in runout Second spot in the brand's stable goes to the now sold-out Born electric hatch, which found 309 new homes in the same period. A distant third goes to the new Tavascan electric SUV 'coupe', which has notched up 170 deliveries since its launch in March. Mr Shafer didn't provide an update on which versions of the facelifted Formentor will be offered locally, but you can expect an 'S mHEV' entry-level variant as well as a pumped-up 245kW VZx 4Drive performance hero with the same drivetrain and rear torque splitter tech as the related Volkswagen Golf R hot hatch. In between, there's likely to be at least one of the e-Hybrid PHEVs – which are available globally in 150kW or 200kW tunes. Cupra Australia has previously indicated a 150kW 2.0 TSI 4Drive version would also make it here, and if that's still the case it's likely be badged as the Formentor V. The new Formentor will follow the updated Leon Hatch and Sportstourer (wagon) models, which are due to land Down Under in October. Cupra is in the thick of a global product offensive, which has included the all-new Tavascan and Terramar SUVs, the facelifted Leon and Formentor ranges, as well as the Born VZ and the upcoming Raval baby EV, which will be revealed next year. As a result of this range-wide overhaul, the Spanish brand expects its continued global sales growth to be reflected in Australia after the brand's year-end sales decline in 2024. Cupra Australia's fortunes are up so far in 2025, with 40.3 per cent sales growth to June 30. This has largely been driven by a resurgence in Formentor sales off the back of runout deals, as well as clearance deals on the now sold-out Born.
The Advertiser
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2026 Cupra Leon Hatch due in October with mild-hybrid, long-range PHEV to follow
The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of "trying something different". "The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point," Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead up to the new Cupra Leon's arrival in October. MORE: Explore the Cupra Leon showroom Content originally sourced from: The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of "trying something different". "The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point," Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead up to the new Cupra Leon's arrival in October. MORE: Explore the Cupra Leon showroom Content originally sourced from: The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of "trying something different". "The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point," Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead up to the new Cupra Leon's arrival in October. MORE: Explore the Cupra Leon showroom Content originally sourced from: The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of "trying something different". "The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point," Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead up to the new Cupra Leon's arrival in October. MORE: Explore the Cupra Leon showroom Content originally sourced from:
Perth Now
14 hours ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2026 Cupra Leon Hatch due in October with mild-hybrid, long-range PHEV to follow
The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of 'trying something different'. 'The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point,' Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. Supplied Credit: CarExpert As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead up to the new Cupra Leon's arrival in October. MORE: Explore the Cupra Leon showroom
7NEWS
14 hours ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
2026 Cupra Leon Hatch due in October with mild-hybrid, long-range PHEV to follow
The facelifted Cupra Leon Hatch will finally be launched in Australia in October, when it will be released in mild-hybrid entry-level and 221kW VZx flagship forms, before a 150kW 'Ve' plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant arrives early next year. Speaking with CarExpert at the local launch of the all-new Terramar mid-size SUV, Cupra Australia head of product Jeff Shafer confirmed the three-tier small-car range and said the decision to import the lower-output PHEV instead of the 200kW version is a case of 'trying something different'. 'The hatchback is a bit of a smaller car. We want to look at where that lands in terms of price point,' Mr Shafer said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. It means the facelifted Leon range will look a little different to the outgoing lineup, which comprises 140kW V, 180kW VZ, 180kW VZe and 221kW VZx grades. The new Leon S mHEV will form the lowest rung on the ladder, powered by the Volkswagen Group's 1.5 eTSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance. Making 110kW and 250Nm, it's the same powertrain that just launched in the larger Terramar and already does service in the Audi A3 35 TFSI – both of which share the Leon's MQB evo underpinnings. Expect it to be something of an efficiency leader, too. While not a full hybrid like you'll find in a Toyota Corolla, the Leon Hatch 1.5 eTSI claims to consume just 5.3L/100km on the strict WLTP combined cycle based on UK specifications, and emits 122g/km of CO2. Driving the front wheels via a seven-speed 'DSG' dual-clutch automatic transmission, the mild-hybrid Leon accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 216km/h – the UK-spec Corolla Hatch 1.8L hybrid manages a 9.1-second sprint and consumes 4.4-4.7L/100km, for reference. Meanwhile, the new Leon Ve PHEV uses a 150kW version of the VW Group's second-gen PHEV system, which teams the 1.5 TSI turbo-petrol engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor and a 25.8kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack. It's the same running gear as the 200kW e-Hybrid, just with lower system outputs. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch auto. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 7.7 seconds (versus 7.1 for the 200kW variant), with top speed listed at a claimed 220km/h (versus 229km/h). Thanks to its smaller wheel and tyre package globally, the 150kW Leon e-Hybrid offers a slightly longer WLTP-certified EV driving range (124-132km versus 121-122km) than its more powerful sibling, while both can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW, which replenishes the battery from 10-80 per cent in a claimed 26 minutes. Mr Shafer didn't rule out the more powerful Leon Hatch PHEV entirely for Australia, but he did confirm the 200kW version as the launch drivetrain for the new Leon Sportstourer wagon, which is due in Australia around the same time. Sitting atop the hatchback range will be the carryover 221kW/400Nm VZx, which uses the same tune of the EA888 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo engine as the VW Golf GTI Clubsport that forbidden fruit for the Australian market. The performance flagship dashes from 0-100km/h in a swift 5.7 seconds (claimed), on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Mr Shafer didn't let on much about potential pricing and specifications, but we're expecting the Spanish brand to go hard on value to reassert itself in the premium small passenger car segment. The Leon Hatch range originally started from $49,190 drive-away for the 140kW Leon V for model year 2024, but that has since been revised to $39,265 drive-away based on current advertised run-out offers. A mid-$40,000 drive-away starting price would put the Leon S mHEV in the thick of high-spec mainstream and low-spec premium competition – think Corolla ZR, Mazda 3 G25 Astina, Golf Style and Civic e:HEV L – and we expect the VZx flagship should remain around the current model's $63,000 drive-away mark. As for the new Leon Ve, it's more unclear. The pre-facelift VZe never got nationwide drive-away pricing like the non-PHEV models and, as such, commands a premium over the VZx once on-road costs are factored in. However, using the outgoing model's $61,690 RRP sticker as a guide and considering Australia's new emissions legislation as a guide, Cupra may be intending to really sharpen the pencil with its new entry-level plug-in hybrid. CarExpert expects the Leon Ve to start at around $50,000 before on-road costs, and for drive-away pricing (irrespective of a potential nationwide offer) to come in under $60,000. The e-Hybrid version would also give Cupra a unique point of difference within the VW Group locally, as well as the wider small passenger car segment, as no other vehicle at the mainstream or premium ends of the market currently offers a PHEV option – though the Peugeot 308 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class have previously.
