15 February 2017

SEAT Leon Cupra gets more powerful engine

The CUP RACER acronym has become much more than just a version in the SEAT range; the CUPRAS are the ultimate expression of its sports heritage, writes Trish Whelan.

The Leon CUPRA is offered in two different body types; the 5-door and the ST (Sports Tourer). 

With its 2.0 TSI petrol engine that puts out 300hp, the new Leon CUPRA is not only top of the range, but is now also the most powerful model in the range ever produced by SEAT. The engine gains 10hp more (up from 290 to 300) and torque has increased from 350 Nm to 380 Nm. 

The car’s maximum speed is electronically limited to 250km/h regardless of which gearbox is chosen, which can be manual or automatic, both of which are 6-speeds. C02 emissions are between 156 and 164 g/km, depending on the model. A claimed average consumption for the 5-door is 6.8 L/100km. It goes up to 7.2 L/100kms for the CUPRA ST DSG 4Drive version.

The car will also get four-wheel drive in the ST version together with the double-clutch DSG. The car comes with Progressive Steering System as standard. Another key element is the Haldex VAQ self-locking differential.

There are five modes to choose, Comfort, Sport, Eco, Individual and CUPRA. The car is also loaded with the latest in technology and functionality, as well as advanced driving assistance systems, multimedia and connectivity technology. Updated cameras and radar have been added for the Pedestrian Protection and Emergency Assist systems and offer more precision and better accuracy for the Traffic Sign Recognition system. 

Customers can choose from the expanded exterior colour range, with two new metallic paints - Mystery Blue and Desire Red.

Neil Dalton, Head of Marketing & Product at SEAT Ireland says “The Leon CUPRA has always been an iconic model with the Leon range and we look forward to presenting our most powerful and digitally advanced model in the range to the Irish market.

SEAT is offering 0pc finance across the CUPRA range between now and 31 March. The Leon CUPRA is available to order at the brand's 23-strong dealer network.