SEAT turns up heat with ultimate Leon

Meet the hottest hatch SEAT has ever produced. This is the all-new Leon Cupra R – and it has the same power output as the firm’s World Touring Car Championship-winning racer!

The 2.0-litre petrol turbo under the bonnet delivers 265bhp – that’s more than a Ford Focus ST or VW Golf GTI MkVI.

The three-door, front-wheel-drive SEAT will rocket from 0-60mph in 6.1 seconds and has a 155mph top speed, but is capable of nearly 35mpg.

There are visual tweaks to match its performance, too, with red brake calipers, R and Cupra badging and smart 19-inch alloys.

Inside are bucket seats finished in grey Alcantara, plus white LED dials, an aluminium-trimmed dashboard and pedals and multifunction steering wheel.

Safety features include stability control and brake assist. Meanwhile, SEAT’s XDS system, which mimics the function of a limited-slip diff, adds to the racing feel.

The car will debut at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, and will be confirmed for the UK shortly after. It’s set to arrive early next year, priced at around £20,000.

A spokesman for the company said that while the R’s high-performance credentials may limit its appeal, it would highlight the sporting character of the entire SEAT range.