Seat is testing these days in northern Scandinavia the sportiest version of the Leon model range launched about three months ago - the upcoming new Leon Cupra.
The new Cupra is scheduled for release in August this year. These photos are showing for the first time a prototype in full showroom trim, revealing a quite aggressive styling package.
The car has very large air intakes in the front skirt and a big exhaust pipe placed in the middle of the rear skirt. Inside the new Cupra is offering very sporty design like the Golf GTI, from which according to rumours- the Cupra might also borrow its engine. It is a 2.0 litre FSI Turbo four cylinder motor and said to deliver 220 HP in the Cupra.
The prototypes license plate whether on purpose or not gives a clue of the newcomers future: DTM means Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft - and perhaps an additional racing version of the Cupra.
Compaired to the US spec Focus (which I own 2) yes it is much better looking--but the new ST model in the UK is incredibly sexy...the Cupra's rear however is better looking.
The León is marketed as a lighter, sportier and cheaper variant of the VW Golf. This is in keeping with SEAT's current brand image. To reinforce the sporty image, the vehicle has aggressive looks and is equipped with firm suspension to improve handling.
The only thing I don't like about it is the uncomfortable angle of the corner air intakes on the front bumper. They're a strange angle and come up too close to the lights. But other than that... I really wish we got Seats here.
Before I get into the Seat (remember it's pronounced like "say-aht") deal, someone mentioned the US-spec Focus. The reason why we can't get the Euro-spec Focus to be mated to US standards is dumb. The Focus is basically an import to America, but the RS would be ultimate. We talk about how we'd like to have hot Japanese-only cars in the States, but no RS in the States is kind of dull. No wonder Ford's in such hot water.
Seat Leon Cupra, eh? Dare I say it, but the front bumper kind of reminds me of a Porsche. Maybe like the 996 or something's front ducts. At the rear, it looks pretty aggressive with those rear ducts and that big muffler. I'm sure it's functional, but this is pretty bold for a compact like this thing. The side details are clean with nice lines and the overfender arches. Overall, it is a meanly-designed car that still remains pretty clean. Nice job by this Spanish make.
Well if it's respect from U.S. I respect them but the majority of people don't even know that Seat exists. Hell I'm sure some people are so stuck under a rock that they don't even know what Ferrari or Lamborghini is.
Now I would buy that if it were here in the 'states!
. I really like what they did with the back doors. 👍
