2025 Cupra Leon Sportstourer VZ Review

New Zealand might have missed out on the Golf R Variant (the station wagon version), but don’t fret, because Cupra have stepped in with an equally hot alternative that seamlessly blends practicality and style into one sleek, sporty package.

The Leon Sportstourer VZ is a welcome addition to Cupra’s lineup. Featuring the iconic “Shark nose” front end and dynamic light bar incorporating illuminated Cupra badge; it’s nearly identical to the entry-level Sportstourer V in terms of appearance.

But under the bonnet lies a secret that sets the VZ apart; and it’s all in the name. The acronym VZ stands Veloz, which in Spanish means “fast”, and that’s exactly what this wagon is built for.

Power meets practicality

Built on the same platform as Volkswagen’s Golf R, the VZ packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that punches out 245kW of power and 420Nm of torque.

That’s enough to launch this wagon from 0–100km/h in just 4.8 seconds – only two-tenths shy of the Golf R’s time. Not bad for something with room for the dog, the kids, and a weekend’s worth of gear.

The drivetrain is also familiar; a seven-speed DSG transmission paired with all-wheel drive. This guarantees lightning-fast gear changes and relentless grip that makes the car feel planted and confident, and just a little bit wild when you want it to be.

Fuel economy and drive modes

Cupra claims a combined fuel economy of 8.3L/100km, though this may vary in the real world depending on how heavy your right foot is. During our test, which included a mix of urban cruising and open-road blasts, we averaged 10.4L/100km.

A standout feature is the Cupra button on the steering wheel. Although a bit of a party trick, it’s a useful one at that. Tapping it allows you to cycle through the various drive modes, including “Cupra Mode”, in which the gears hold longer, throttle response sharpens, and the car produces a throatier exhaust note.

Price and features

Starting at $84,990, the VZ is a jump in price from the entry-level e-Hybrid Leon V at $62,990. And while the spec sheet doesn’t add a ton of extra features on the inside, you still get a solid suite of technology, including a 12.9” infotainment screen, wireless phone charging, voice control, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Sport bucket seats and Cupra’s signature LED cockpit strip, resembling an F1 cockpit, adds a deservedly motorsport vibe.

The infotainment system is Cupra’s own (not Volkswagen’s) which we appreciate. It’s intuitive, responsive, and easy to navigate. Cupra includes a raft of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, high-beam assist, attention and drowsiness alerts, and a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Materials throughout the cabin feel premium, with copper accents adding flair to the otherwise dark interior. Thankfully, the steering wheel includes proper tactile switches opposed to the universally despised haptic steering wheel buttons on the Golf R, which is another favourable feature of the Cupra.

The special stuff

The VZ gets a major stereo upgrade featuring a 12-speaker IMMERSIVE by Sennheiser audio system which delivers rich, detailed sound – although, I’d rather listen to that exhaust note all day long.

The real magic lies in the dynamic chassis control and speed-sensitive steering. Around town, the steering is light and nimble; at speed, it tightens up, giving you precise feedback and a real connection to the road.

The VZ features additional side skirts and rear diffuser with quad tailpipes – which screams performance. The standard wheel option is the 19” machined alloys, but we love the optional Hailstorm Copper alloys that came with the test car, and with a name like that, who wouldn’t.

The electric tailgate is a good idea since there is no boot lid release on the outside of the vehicle. Cupra have also removed the space-saving spare wheel that comes with the V, instead opting for a tyre repair kit in its place.

The verdict

The Leon VZ Sportstourer is a big step up from the entry-level V, both in price and driving experience. It’s sharper, faster, and more engaging, while still offering the practicality of a wagon. Compared to the Golf R, which the VZ is based on, the Cupra gives you more boot space and is arguably more attractive. For Kiwi drivers wanting the practicality of an SUV, without sacrificing the performance and feel of a car, this might just be the perfect middle ground between hot hatch and SUV.