Description

The third generation of the Seat León (Typ 5F) is a C-Segment car launched in 2012, available in both 5 door and 3 door bodystyles and based on the VW Group’s MQB platform.

The performance versions, Leon Cupra 265 and Leon Cupra 280 lauched in 2013, fitted with a turbocharged 2.0 TSI engine in two output versions, producing 265 hp (195 kw) or 280 hp (206 kw) of power and 350 Nm of torque. The engine had dual injection, variable camshaft timing, special coating for the aluminium pistons and the bearings and intelligent thermal management system with the exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head. The car was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed double clutch DSG (only available with the 280 hp engine). When equipped with the DSG gearbox, the car could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5,7 seconds, while the manual versions needed 5,8 seconds (280 hp) and 5,9 seconds (265 hp). The top speed was limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Other modifications included the electronic controlable shock absorbers, the DCC dynamic chassis control system, a Cupra-specific drive profile, a front axle differential lock, larger brakes and progressive steering.

Visually, the car featured a Cupra-specific bodykit that included redesigned bumpers with larger air intakes, full-LED headlamps, roof spoiler, 18 inch wheels (19 inch for the 280hp version), rear diffuser and two oval pipes. Inside, the car featured sports steering wheel with shifting paddles for the DSG transmission, sports seats in dark grey Alcantara with white stitching (optional full bucket seats), black full leather upholstery and aluminium pedals.

In 2016, Seat launched the more powerful Leon Cupra 290 featuring an updated version of the 2.0 TSI engine producing 290 hp (213 kw) and the same 350 Nm of torque. The car was also equipped with a retuned exhaust system and visually, it was recognizable only from the Cupra 290 lettering on the rear end.

The facelifted Leon Cupra 300 launched in 2017, featuring styling and mechanical upgrades. The 2.0 TSI engine produced 300 hp (kw) of power and 380 Nm of torque. Visually, the car featured redesigned front and rear bumper, double exhaust system in chrome, red brake calipers, 19 inch wheels, rear spoiler and tinted windows. Inside the car featured alcantara upholstery with carbon fibre and aluminium details.

In 2017, Seat also launched the limited edition Leon Cupra R that was only produced in 799 units with a unique bodykit and some mechanical upgrades.

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