Fastest Ever SEAT in UK has landed

SEAT has revealed its faster-ever car, the Leon CUPRA R ST…

Just 150 of the limited edition models has been available in the UK since 9th April 2019.

The hot hatch – which carries an on-the-road price of £37,975 – comes equipped with a two-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine that develops 300 HP.

Linked to a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox, the engine is capable of propelling the CUPRA R ST from 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds, propelling it on to a top speed of 155 mph.

For an additional £500, drivers can choose the even more souped-up 370 HP model, which comes equipped with an ABT tuning pack. The more powerful model has an even shorter 0-62 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, making it the fastest car in SEAT’s history.

It may be swift, but the CUPRA R ST’s performance is also designed to be accessible. The vehicle boasts an advanced 4Drive traction control system, while cornering speed and handling have been improved with the addition of new uprights on the front axle.

Further performance-enhancing tweaks include the addition of Brembo brakes, while the car also comes with bucket seats, a quad exhaust and carbon fibre detailing on the exterior.

Antonino Labate, director of Strategy, Business Development and Operations of CUPRA, said: “The Leon CUPRA R ST represents our ability to make unique, exciting cars with the most advanced technology ready for the most demanding and diverse of drivers. It’s the amalgamation of the brand’s experience in motor racing and the ability of our design and engineering teams to seamlessly mix performance and functionality.”

According to SEAT, a total of 14,400 CUPRA vehicles – the brand’s specced-up sports range – were sold in 2018, representing a 40 per cent increase on the previous year.