Seat Leon Cupra R – the hot hatch killer
A run-out special for the outgoing Seat Leon Cupra estate, the R shares much with the Golf R Estate but, like other fast Leons, has a more outgoing spirit. For this limited run of just 150 examples, Seat also offered a £500 upgrade from 300 horsepower to 350 horsepower, courtesy of a chip-based engine upgrade from respected tuning brand Abt. This, plus a distinctive garnish of copper coloured wheels and trim, carbon-fibre cabin embellishments, uprated Brembo brakes and generous standard spec were attractive enough, the Abt package slicing four tenths off the 0-62mph time to just 4.5 seconds while the dedicated suspension set-up and 4Drive all-wheel-drive system mean it’s there to be enjoyed whatever the weather. Fast, stylish and stealthy, it’s rare but worth seeking out.