Seat Leon Cupra, 2014

 Seat Leon Cupra, 2014

Fascinating dynamics, state-of-the-art technology, stunning design matched with compelling efficiency and perfect everyday usability - the new Seat Leon Cupra embodies the SEAT brand values in the best possible way. With up to 206 kW / 280 PS, the new Cupra is not only the clear top model in the very successful Leon family, it is also the brand's most powerful series-production car. And the fastest - the drive and the chassis of the Leon Cupra guarantee precision driving fun of the highest order. With its extensive equipment and excellent quality, the new Cupra offers exceptionally good value-for-money. Right from the start, the Leon Cupra will be offered as a five-door and as the Leon SC Cupra Sport Coupé with three doors.

A concentrated package of hi-tech guarantees the enormous performance of the new Cupra. At the top is the all-new 2.0 TSI engine with dual injection and variable camshaft timing. Depending on the version, it delivers an output of 195 kW / 265 PS or 206 kW / 280 PS. The DCC dynamic chassis control, the front differential lock, the progressive steering, the Cupra Drive Profile and the standard-fit full-LED headlamps are further examples of its state-of-the-art technologies.

With the new Seat Leon Cupra, a success story is moving onto the next level. The first generation was launched in 1996 with the Ibiza, since when the dynamic Cupra models have developed to become the icons of the SEAT brand. Now Cupra comes as a 3-door Leon for the first time.

The Drive-top performance
Cupra stands for power, performance, dynamics - and the new Leon Cupra fulfils all these promises perfectly. The Cupra 280 with optional DSG transmission, the brand's top model catapults from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, and in 5.8 seconds with the manual gearbox (Leon SC). The regulated top speed of 250 km/h is a matter of course. The maximum torque of 350 Newton metres across the wide range of 1,750 to 5,300 rpm guarantees impressive pulling power in every situation. And the Cupra with 195 kW / 265 PS and a maximum torque of 350 Newton metres is no more than a fraction slower. Its acceleration time stands at 5.9 seconds with manual transmission and 5.8 seconds with DSG (Leon SC).

The Hi-tech engine components
As a true sports engine, the 2.0 TSI reacts spontaneously to every movement of the gas pedal and is deliciously high revving - paired with a rich and refined sound that is aided and modulated by a sound actuator. The all-new power unit with its exceptionally responsive turbocharger is packed full with hi-tech and groundbreaking features - in the dual-injection system, the gasoline direct injection is complemented under partial load by manifold injection. Its optimum set-up reduces fuel consumption and particulate emissions. Cylinder fill is always in the optimum range - the camshafts are adjustable, with the valve lift system regulating opening on the exhaust side. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head and is part of the intelligent thermal management system. A new kind of coating on the aluminium pistons and the bearings keeps friction to a minimum. The Cupra efficiency package also includes the start/stop system and brake energy regeneration.

The Chassis - hi-tech for precision and dynamics
Cupra has always been synonymous with outstanding dynamics, precise agility and amazing sporting character. The new Leon Cupra, however, manages to set the bar a good deal higher - in every dimension. With the DCC dynamic chassis control, front-axle differential lock and progressive steering all fitted as standard, the new Leon Cupra achieves considerably faster laps on the track than its already impressive predecessor. At the same time, it is significantly more relaxed to drive, with a surprisingly refined level of comfort even on long motorway journeys. Safe and reliable deceleration comes courtesy of the Cupra-specific, high-performance brake system, recognisable by its red callipers.

The DCC dynamic chassis control
The key fundamentals of the dynamics are low weight and a stiff structure. The systematic lightweight design of the new Leon family is also evident on the Cupra. Despite considerably improved equipment, the new generation weighs 55 kilograms less than its comparable predecessor. The new generation of the DCC dynamic chassis control developed specifically for the Cupra is even more sensitive and responsive, adapting the chassis characteristics to the prevailing conditions in a matter of milliseconds. The same applies to the driver's preferences - the Cupra Drive Profile permits extensive individualisation of the ride.

The Front-axle differential lock
The new front-axle differential lock significantly improves the traction and handling of this front-wheel drive car. The system uses a multi-plate package that is hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled. The maximum locking force is 1,600 Newton metres and, in extreme cases, 100 percent of the drive can be sent to one wheel. The differential lock is integrated into all the handling systems like ESP and EDS. It improves not only the traction, but also eliminates torque steer. Furthermore, its sensitive control has no negative impact on steering feel.

The Progressive steering
Also included as standard equipment, the progressive steering improves the agile handling of the new Leon Cupra. The driver experiences a precise and relaxed steering feel, less steering movement is required, reducing the number of grip changes, especially in cornering or parking manoeuvres. The steering in the new Leon Cupra works with a progressive ratio through variable toothing on the rack.

The ESP handling system has been further developed specifically for the Cupra and enables a very sporty driving style with full retention of safety functionality. For extremely dynamic use, such as on a race track, it can also be deactivated in two stages - the first stage deactivates the traction control and puts the ESP into sport mode, permitting greater yaw angles. The second stage deactivates the ESP completely.