GAME, SET & HATCH

Refreshed Honda Civic takes on SEAT's revitalised Leon as they strive to prove there's plenty of life in the family hatchback yet. But which is the champion?

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HONDA CIVIC vs SEAT LION

With SUVS ruling the roost, is it time hatchbacks made a comeback?

THERE was once a time when family hatchbacks ruled the sales charts, but in recent years their taller SUV counterparts have become more popular. We think that's a shame, because in many cases the hatchbacks have more to offer than their chunkier rivals.

Here we have two cars that aim to prove that the hatchback is due a revival. The first is the Honda Civic, which has impressed us ever since this 11th-generation version was launched in 2022, and it has now benefitted from a midlife refresh. The Japanese hatchback looks as competitively priced today as it has ever been, too.

Its rival here is a car which has long flown under the radar without the appreciation it deserves. After what seemed like an uncertain time for SEAT, it looks like the brand will soon find its feet again, as we reported last week (Issue 1,906). The Ibiza supermini and Arona compact SUV are being revamped, while the larger Leon will gain an overhauled powertrain lineup in 2027 as part of a range of updates.

So it's the perfect time to remind ourselves just what SEAT has to offer. Both cars have the ability to deserve more success, but which model is most worthy of your cash?

CONTENDERS

Honda Civic

THE Honda Civic impressed us enough to be named our Affordable Hybrid of the Year back in 2023, and it gave many of the more popular contenders in the family-car sector a hard time with its all-round ability.

While it was briefly stifled by supply chain issues and rising prices, the Civic is now well back on track, with the revised 2025 model elevating it higher. Our pick is the £35,395 Sport we're testing, but average savings of around £1,867 through our new-car deals portal can make the car more tempting.

SEAT Leon