We say Powerful Seat hot hatch that looks good, handles well and boasts strong VW engines.Performance 268bhp and 258lb-ft of torque from the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This translates to a top speed of 155mph and 0-62mph in six seconds flat.Emissions You don’t buy a hot hatch if you’re concerned about CO2 emissions and fuel economy figures and that’s evident with the Cupra R; it returns 34mpg and emits 190g/km in CO2.Driving The Cupra R is great to drive and extremely fun on the road. The steering could be more responsive, but the Leon Cupra R ticks many of the hot hatch boxes but there’s a bit too much bodyroll around corners to class it as a proper hot hatch.Feel Suspension is stiff on the Cupra R and that means uneven roads can become quite uncomfortable for passengers.Space For a hot hatch, the Cupra R is quite practical. There’s a decent 341-litre boot at the back which is less than hot Golfs and Focus’ but decent either way. The rear seats do fold flat to free up 1,305-litres of space though and there’s a five-door version that aids access.Equipment 19-inch alloy wheels, racing front seats in leather and rear parking sensors on top of the sporty exterior touches create a strong package.Price £25,000 is a big premium over the standard Cupra and it all depends on how much you want that additional performance. It undercuts the majority of alternatives in the hot hatch segment though.Quality It’s well put together and uses high quality materials throughout with a sporting edge to the interior thanks to aluminium pedals and racing seats.Safety Full range of airbags and a host of electronic handling aids.Pros The Cupra R is an excellent alternative to the more expensive hot hatches on the market. It’s great to drive and fairly practical, too.Cons The Cupra R doesn’t match up to the more established hot hatches on the market and there’s a bit too much bodyroll around corners to class it as an out and out rival to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf R.Alternatives Renault Megane Renaultsport Cup 250, Ford Focus RS
