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SEAT Leon Cupra R

In the hot seat

Driving enthusiasts are getting excited about this new R - and it's easy to see why! Aimed at the class- leading Renaultsport Clio 172 and Honda Civic Type R, the £16,995 SEAT Cupra R is powered by a 210bhp version of the Audi TT engine to give blistering performance with handling to match.

By James Baggott

July 2002

Driving enthusiasts are getting excited about this new R - and it's easy to see why! Aimed at the class- leading Renaultsport Clio 172 and Honda Civic Type R, the ΂£16,995 SEAT Cupra R is powered by a 210bhp version of the Audi TT engine to give blistering performance with handling to match.

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.

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For an alternative review of the latest Seat Leon visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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FIRST OPINION

    Value and VW Group build quality make the feisty Spanish bruiser a great choice if you want to combine blistering pace, butch looks and sensible touring capabilities. This hot SEAT is definitely worthy of the R badge.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Turbo 1.8-litre engine produces 210bhp; 270Nm of torque
    On sale now for £16,995
     
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