In partnership with Auto Trader
Used test: Ford Focus vs Seat Leon vs Volkswagen Golf verdict
These are three of the best family hatchbacks on sale, and you can save a sizeable sum on each of them by buying at a couple of years old. But which is best?...
Our verdict
The Ford Focus remains above par in the family car class. Its satisfying handling, efficient engine and great level of equipment work in its favour. However, its shortcomings in interior quality, ride and reliability (in this company) rank it third.
The latest Volkswagen Golf isn't perfect either, despite it having the best interior quality and a comfy ride, and being the only car here with an adjustable boot floor. It has the noisiest engine, the fiddliest infotainment and is the least practical, landing it in second.
In first is our hole in one, the Seat Leon. It will cost you £1500 less to buy than the Golf and Focus, yet gets the punchiest engine, most composed handling and the best infotainment system. It finds success in equipment and practicality, too. It's a truly remarkable package and our family car winner.
1st – Seat Leon
For Punchy performance; composed driving dynamics; good rear seat space; well equipped; best infotainment system
Against Ride is on the firm side; prevalent road noise
What Car? says 5 stars out of 5
Read the full used Seat Leon review >>
Find a used Seat Leon for sale >>
2nd – Volkswagen Golf
For Comfortable ride; tidy handling; interior quality is better than its two rivals
Against Infotainment isn't easy to use; not particularly spacious; noisy engine
What Car? says 4 stars out of 5
Read the full used Volkswagen Golf review >>
Find a used Volkswagen Golf for sale >>
3rd – Ford Focus
For Comfortable ride; tidy handling; interior quality is better than its two rivals
Against Infotainment isn't easy to use; not particularly spacious; noisy engine
What Car? says 4 stars out of 5
Read the full used Ford Focus review >>
Find a used Ford Focus for sale >>
Specification: Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost Hybrid 125 Titanium X Edition
Engine size 1.0-litre petrol
Power 123bhp @ 6000rpm
Torque 155Ib ft @ 1750-2500rpm
0-60mph 9.9sec
Top speed 124mph
Official economy 54.3mpg (WLTP)
CO2 emissions 118g/km
Specification: Seat Leon 1.5 TSI 150 Evo FR
Engine size 1.5-litre petrol
Power 148bhp @ 5000-6000rpm
Torque 184Ib ft @ 1500-3500rpm
0-60mph 7.7sec
Top speed 134mph
Official economy 48.7mpg (WLTP)
CO2 emissions 132g/km
Specification: Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 130 Style
Engine size 1.5-litre petrol
Power 128bhp @ 5000-6000rpm
Torque 148Ib ft @ 1400-4000rpm
0-60mph 8.8sec
Top speed 133mph
Official economy 51.6mpg (WLTP)
CO2 emissions 124g/km
