In the hot seat

Completing the 0-60mph dash in 6.9 seconds and with a top speed of 147mph, the hot SEAT is seriously quick. Even more impressive is the 270Nm of torque on offer from only 2,100rpm. With the throttle to the floor, the engine pulls hard all the way to the red line. Coupled to the Cupra R's re-vised suspension, the 30bhp hike over the standard car is handled better than we had expected. And torque steer, so often the downfall of powerful front-wheel-drive cars, is barely noticeable.

A quicker steering rack has also been added and offers satisfying feedback. The brakes are equally impressive, and combined with sticky 225 section tyres bring the car to a halt remarkably quickly. However, the six-speed gearbox lacks the sporty, direct feel of its competitors.

On the outside, the Leon looks every bit the hot hatch, too. A broader radiator grille, redesigned bumper and front splitter give a menacing look. A bodykit, boot spoiler, massive 18-inch wheels and rorty exhaust add to the car's racy appeal.

Despite its sporty styling, the cabin is comfortable and reasonably practical. There's plenty of equipment on offer, too - unlike in the rival Honda which even relegates air-conditioning to the options list. In the Spanish contender, items such as climate control are standard, as well as a trio of three-point belts and headrests in the rear.

Unfortunately, the trim is depressingly black, with only red stitching and embroidered 'R' emblems on the seats providing any contrast. For the range's flagship model, we would have hoped for far more excitement inside.