SEAT Leon Cupra R

SEAT has unveiled its most potent model to date - the awesome new Leon Cupra R.

Set to make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 17 September, the new flagship offers a powerful 263bhp 2.0 TSI turbocharged petrol engine - matching the power output of the title-winning SEAT Leon TDI World Touring Car.

Among the four-cylinder 16V unit’s key features is a new, high-pressure fuel pump injector to satisfy its greater performance demands while also allowing it to fully comply with strict EU5 emissions standards.

Transmitting that urge to its driven front wheels, the Cupra R is capable of prodigious performance.  The zero to 62 mph time, for instance, is a formidable 6.1 seconds, while the top speed of 155 mph is comfortably adequate.  All this, and yet the new SEAT’s combined fuel consumption figure is put at just a shade under 35 mpg.

Inside and out, the car gets the distinctive letter ‘R’ on the central grille and at the lower right of the hatch.  The all-important initial also appears inside, on the right instrument dial and the remote control key. Meanwhile, the exclusive Cupra logo graces the front bumper, the centre of the hatch and, inside, the steering wheel and seat backrests.

Though UK sales are not yet officially confirmed, it's likley the car will go on sale early in 2010, with prices  expected to start at around £20,000.