Only 150 of the hottest Leon Cupra R ST special editions will be available in the UK from 9th April, when the order book opens. The 2.0 TSI 297bhp model will have an on-the-road (pre-discount) price of £37,975, however, for just £500 more, customers can upgrade to 366bhp with the addition of an ABT tuning pack. Insurance rated and with zero impact on the homologated status of the car, it will reduce the 0-60mph acceleration figure to a supercar-taunting 4.2s (top speed limited to 155mph). It is blisteringly quick!
Possessing a high standard specification, the R ST comes with quad exhausts, Brembo brakes, Alcantara-clad bucket seats, keyless entry/start and a panoramic sunroof. Copper accents, a la Cupra, and carbon fibre detailing add to the racy external appeal and upgraded versions will feature ABT detailing on the rear badge. The new model brings unique styling details, sophisticated stability and high-performance to the class, mixing its 4Drive system, with the hottest engine package in the category. In order to improve cornering speeds, new uprights have been added to both front and rear axles to provide two-degrees of stabilising negative camber.
Its aesthetics have been enhanced with carbon fibre front splitter, rear spoiler, side skirts and the rear diffuser. Copper-coloured logos and badges emphasise the Leon’s credentials, carried onto its exclusive 19.0-inch diameter alloy wheels that frame the front Brembo brakes.
Illuminated aluminium sills welcome the driver and passenger. The interior lining of the doors is finished in fabric with a carbon appearance. Copper accents continue on the climate control vents, the central console, on the steering wheel logo and on the stitching of the bucket seats and steering wheel, both of which are clad in tactile Alcantara. Both driver and front passenger are cocooned in deep bucket seats that provide maximum support on longer journeys, while holding-in the driver for those more enthusiastic moments.
After depressing the start button, the welcome splash screen shows a dedicated Cupra R ST display on the centre console’s 8.0-inch touchscreen. The VW Group digital cockpit is included, which provides copious information on-the-move. While the Leon Cupra R ST is designed as a high-performance vehicle, it also provides the necessary levels of comfort and convenience expected of a popular, if high-end, family car.
Keyless entry and front and rear-view cameras are incorporated as standard. In terms of connectivity, the Leon Cupra R ST integrates the latest suite of software meaning that drivers can link their mobile devices to the car, with associated app benefits and increased functionality. Naturally, driver and safety aids are up to the usual standards. What will make this Cupra-ised Leon sell strongly is its class-beating potency, especially with the ABT modification.
