What's all this about?

SEAT will launch a new version of its performance hatch at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Called the Leon Cupra R, it will gain unique styling and in the case of the manual transmission, more power.

How much more power?

Well, just 10hp more, but consider that the Leon Cupra already has 300hp, who would say no to a little bit more? However, the power increase only applies to the six-speed manual transmission. If you opt for the DSG automatic, you'll still only get 300hp. But the Cupra R does come with plenty of other tweaks.

Like what?

The already impressive front axle gains some tweaks to the camber in a bid to further improve handling performance. Changes to the Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) software bring further fine tuning to the car's different driving modes.

It looks a little different, too.

Indeed it does. Fans of the older Leon Cupra R will spot the subtle hat tip to that car in the way in which this one has been styled. For starters, the car will be available in three distinct colours; Midnight Black, Pyrenees Grey and Matte Grey. Both the front and rear spoilers get a carbon fibre treatment, while the door mirror caps, badging, wheels and front intake surrounds are painted in a contrasting copper colour that really stands out. The rear bumper has been restyled and has a more aggressive look to it.

What about the interior?

You'll be glad to know that the cabin also gets a visual lift, mainly through the use of Alcantara on the steering wheel and gearlever. After all, it wouldn't be a proper limited-run hot hatch without some Alcantara in the interior.

Hang on, did you say limited run?

Yes, if you want to get your hands on a Leon Cupra R you will need to be friendly with your local dealer and quick. SEAT has confirmed that it will only produce 799 examples of the car, and when they're gone, they're gone.

Dave Humphries - 5 Sep 2017