New Volkswagen Golf R Estate vs Cupra Leon Estate: verdict
These two fast freighters combine power with practicality, but which is the better buy?...
Our verdict
This was such a close call that the two cars actually ended up totting up the same number of stars overall. The lavishly equipped Cupra Leon Estate is just as quick in the real world as the VW Golf R Estate, plus it’s also similarly accommodating for passengers and offers superior comfort, thanks to its standard adaptive suspension.
However, the Leon will cost you more in the long run, despite its lower purchase price. Factor in the Golf’s more entertaining handling and bigger boot and it does just enough to grab the win.
If you’re sold on the Leon, we’d go for the cheaper VZ2 model; it’s just as good to drive as the VZ3 and still well equipped, but works out much better value for money.
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1st – Volkswagen Golf R Estate
For More fun to drive; excellent resale values; blistering performance; better rear seat comfort and practicality
Against Comparatively stingy on kit; interior quality should be better for the price
Recommended options Dynamic Chassis Control (£840)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
2nd – Cupra Leon Estate
For Comfy ride with standard adaptive suspension; lots of equipment; more user-friendly infotainment; snazzier interior
Against Pricier to run; less convenient boot; gearbox can be hesitant
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Specifications: Cupra Leon Estate 2.0 TSI 310 VZ3
Engine 4cyl, 1984cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 306bhp at 5450-6500rpm
Peak torque 295lb ft at 2000-5450rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 4.6sec
30-70mph 4.1sec
Top speed 155mph
30-0mph 8.3m
70-0mph 44.3m
Noise at 30mph 62.4dB
Noise at 70mph 68.2dB
Kerb weight 1565kg
Tyre size (std) 235/35 R19
Fuel tank 55 litres
True MPG average 32.7mpg
Official economy 34.4mpg
CO2 emissions 186g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen Golf R Estate 2.0 TSI 320 4Motion DSG
Engine 4cyl, 1984cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 316bhp at 5500-6500rpm
Peak torque 310lb ft at 2100-5350rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 4.4sec
30-70mph 3.9sec
Top speed 155mph*
30-0mph 8.7m
70-0mph 45.9m
Noise at 30mph 63.2dB
Noise at 70mph 69.3dB
Kerb weight 1555kg
Tyre size (std) 225/40 R18
Fuel tank 55 litres
True MPG average 32.1mpg
Official economy 34.9mpg
CO2 emissions 178g/km
*166mph optional
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Cupra Leon Estate 2.0 TSI 310 VZ3 with Graphene Grey paint and Petrol Blue leather interior
VW Golf R Estate 2.0 TSI 320 4Motion DSG with Lapiz Blue metallic paint (£825)
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