SEAT’s performance flagship, the Leon CUPRA, has received a power upgrade, taking it to the heady heights of 290 PS.
Offering outstanding performance paired with excellent efficiency, the stunning design, individual equipment options and excellent quality are further points that make the Leon CUPRA a very special proposition indeed.
Among journalists and customers alike, the SEAT Leon CUPRA has attracted hordes of admirers, whether as a Sport Coupé, five-door, or the recently launched Sports Tourer version. In the trade media across Europe, the CUPRA immediately became a consistent winner in comparison tests; while its owners love its design and handling.
A concentrated hi-tech package guarantees the enormous performance of the new Leon CUPRA, with the 2.0 TSI engine, featuring dual injection and variable camshaft timing, delivering an output of 290 PS. The DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control), front differential lock, progressive steering, CUPRA Drive Profile and standard-fit full-LED headlamps are further examples of its state-of-the-art technologies.
CUPRA stands for power, performance, dynamics – and the Leon CUPRA fulfils all these promises perfectly. The CUPRA 290 with optional DSG transmission catapults from 0-62 mph in just 5.7 seconds, and in 5.8 seconds with the manual gearbox. The regulated top speed of 155 mph is a matter of course. Its maximum torque of 350Nm is now available across an even broader rev range from 1,700 to 5,800 rpm, guaranteeing impressive pulling power in every situation. Against this, the new Leon CUPRA 290 is astonishingly efficient, delivering 42.8 mpg with DSG transmission and 42.2 mpg in manual guise (Leon SC) . This equates to CO2 figures of just 149 and 156 grams.
The performance of the Leon CUPRA 290 can be raised even further with the optional Sub8 Performance Pack, which includes a set of Brembo brake callipers, an exclusive wheel design and special tyres.
From the outside, the revised version of SEAT’s swiftest hot hatch is immediately recognisable from the CUPRA 290 lettering on the tailgate. Inside, it boasts chromed trim elements, with high-gloss black available as an option. The increased power output is audible, too – a retuned exhaust system gives the sports engine an even more refined tone.
The Leon CUPRA also states its position as the top model in the SEAT range through the progressive steering, dynamic chassis control, front-axle differential lock, CUPRA Drive Profile and high-performance brake system with 19-inch wheels.
Also standard equipment, are the full-LED headlamps and the LED rear lights. Alongside their distinctive design, LED headlamps have many further benefits – they illuminate the road ahead at a colour temperature of 5,300 Kelvin. Because this is very similar to daylight, it places very little strain on the eyes. When it comes to efficiency, the LEDs consume minimal energy – dipped beam, for instance, draws just 20 watts per unit.
The top sports seats in Alcantara, the CUPRA steering wheel and the Satellite Navigation System with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen are all among the standard interior features in addition to the extensive base equipment of the Leon FR. One particular feature in the CUPRA interior is the ambient lighting. LEDs in the door panels emphasise the contours of the interior design and add to the premium feel of the passenger compartment. At the same time, the ambient lighting offers occupants improved orientation and an even greater sense of spaciousness. The colour of the LEDs can be adapted via the CUPRA Drive Profile – they glow red in CUPRA mode, with the standard setting being white.
