6 Cupra Leon

Cupra has expanded its line-up with a second model, based on the new Seat Leon.

The new car is offered as a five-door hatch or estate, with four powertrain options.

A 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine serves up 245PS, 300PS or 310PS. There is also a 245PS plug-in hybrid called the eHybrid.

The fastest model is able to reach 60mph in just 4.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph.

Lowered suspension, calibrated for improved handling, is combined with Adaptive Chassis Control, enabling owners to configure the car’s ride and responsiveness via four drive modes.

Brembo brakes ensure the car has equally impressive stopping power.

Externally the car looks more aggressive than a regular Leon. Deeper bumpers and larger 18-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels are complementing by darker trim pieces and brand specific copper details.

Cupra says the additional exterior details aren’t purely added for aesthetics, they also serve a real-world purpose, making the Leon 8% more aerodynamic than the outgoing model.

The interior features sports seats and a Cupra steering wheel, but still focusses on long-distance comfort and technology.

There are two digital displays, one for the instruments and one for the infotainment. The system offers enhanced connectivity and allows driver interaction via the Seat Connect app.

Drivers also benefit from Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist and blind spot monitoring.

The Cupra Leon eHybrid uses a 1.4-litre TSI engine and electric motor, like the VW Golf GTE. CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km and an electric range of around 37 miles make the hot-hatch a viable choice for company car drivers.

The new Cupra Leon is available to pre-order now online, with official sales starting in the summer. Prices are expected to start at £32,000.