Seat Leon Cupra R 2010 details revealed

The updated 2010 Seat León Cupra R debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, and is about to go on sale in Europe. It comes well-equipped as the top model of the Leon range, including a new 265 hp engine that outclasses the VW parent company’s Golf GTI.

The new León Cupra R features exclusive interior and exterior styling upgrades such as reshaped bumpers, “R” badges and 19-inch wheels with 235/35 tyres. The interior features “competition-styled” bucket seats in grey cloth and alcantara upholstery, white LED lighting on the instrument dials, a leather multi-functional steering wheel and aluminium-clad pedals.

The focal point of the new León Cupra R is its 265 hp direct injection 2.0 TSI engine, mated to a 6-speed manual. The intercooler fitted to the new engine delivers greater turbo pressure. It also generates 350 Nm of torque between 2500 and 5000 rpm. The Cupra R offers a 0-100 kph time of 6.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 250 kph. Average fuel consumption is rated at 8.1 litres/100 km.

The equipment list features VW’s new electronic “self-blocking” XDS system, which we figure to be some sort of simulated limited-slip differential using the traction control. It uses the Cupra’s upgraded disc brakes to slow down slipping wheels during turns.

Other standard-fit safety features on the León CUPRA R are front airbags, two side airbags, two head airbags, passenger airbag disconnection, rear window seat Isofix anchoring points and low tyre pressure warning, as well as automatic lights on, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, cruise control, trip computer, cornering fog lights, dual zone climate control and CD/MP3 radio with eight speakers, among others.

Seat is a very small-time player in the GCC, and we’ve heard alleged rumblings from dealers in Dubai that they are forcibly kept restrained by VW’s Middle East office, so as not to compete with their German models. However, Seat has always offered a relatively extensive range in the UAE, including the regular Cupra model, so it is possible they might offer the Cupra R to anyone who asks for one.