Spanish show debuts for sizzling SEAT duo

The heat is on at SEAT. Bosses at the Spanish firm have announced they will unveil fiery performance versions of the Ibiza supermini and Leon hatch at next month’s Barcelona Motor Show.

The new Ibiza FR gets a 1.4-litre turbo and supercharged TSI engine. This has 148bhp, so the car should show rival warm hatches a clean pair of heels, although emissions and fuel economy have also been improved.

A familiar seven-speed DSG gearbox is also on the cards, as is SEAT’s XDS system, which reins in wheelspin and improves grip. The FR features a new set of bumpers, honeycomb grille, 17-inch alloys and twin tailpipes.

Joining it on the stands will be the Leon Cupra. This retains the outgoing car’s 238bhp 2.0-litre TSI, but gets a new look for 2009. The sporty exterior has honeycomb cooling vents, 18-inch alloys and bulging arches, as well as a polished steel oval tailpipe.

Inside, there’s aluminium detailing, white instrument dials and racing seats embossed with the Cupra logo.

Expect the Ibiza FR in showrooms from September, with a starting price under £15,000. The Leon is due in July, and will cost around £20,000.