New Leon ST CUPRA 280 combines effortless performance, style and versatility- In the UK, ST CUPRA to be offered with 280 PS and choice of six-speed DSG or manual transmission
- A practical, yet fun, estate with SEAT Drive Profile (Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), Progressive steering) and mechanical differential lock
- Exclusive equipment, with array of individualisation options, including ‘Sub8 Performance Pack’
- UK pricing and specification to be announced shortly, ahead of launch in March 2015
SEAT has begun a new chapter with its iconic CUPRA sub-brand through the unveiling of its first ever high performance estate, the Leon ST CUPRA. Combining effortless performance with style and spaciousness in spades, the latest addition to the Leon stable boasts a load space of up to 1,470 litres and can shift from nought to 62 mph in just 6.0 seconds – only a shade, 0.2 seconds, slower out of the blocks than its five-door sibling.
The SEAT Leon CUPRA range already has hordes of admirers, from media all across Europe to those who sample their charms on a daily basis. The new Leon ST CUPRA adds a new dimension. For work and family, for sports and hobbies – with its added versatility, it’s the ideal everyday sports car.
“The new Leon ST CUPRA is the perfect complement to our high-performance model line-up. The combination of refined performance and expressive dynamics with relaxed long-distance comfort and compelling utility make it utterly unique,” says Jürgen Stackmann, President of SEAT S.A. “The Leon ST CUPRA shows the SEAT brand values at their best. We are proud of the technical excellence and quality it conveys.”
In the UK, the ST CUPRA’s 2.0 TSI engine with dual injection and variable camshaft timing will be tuned to 280 PS. The Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), front differential lock, progressive steering, CUPRA Drive Profile and standard-fit full-LED headlights are further examples of its state-of-the-art technologies.
“The new Leon ST CUPRA is pure SEAT – emotion and performance, design and dynamics deliver driving fun mile after mile. It boasts state-of-the-art technology evident in its great precision, but also in its amazing efficiency,” stresses Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice President for Research and Development. “We have invested a great deal in the fine details to ensure the Leon CUPRA has the same ride and the same athleticism in its estate form – but with plenty of additional utility.”
With the new Leon ST CUPRA, a success story is moving onto the next level. The first generation was launched in 1996 with the Ibiza, followed since by an array of dynamic CUPRA models which have developed to become icons of the SEAT brand. In the latest generation, the Leon three-door is being offered for the first time as a CUPRA – and now the Leon ST is too.
The Drive – high performance as standard
CUPRA stands for power, performance, dynamics – and the new Leon ST CUPRA fulfils each of these promises perfectly. The ST CUPRA 280 with optional DSG transmission, the brand’s top model, catapults from zero to 62 mph in just 6.0 seconds (6.1 seconds with the manual gearbox). Its broad spread of torque, ranging from 1,700 to 5,600 rpm, guarantees impressive pulling power in every situation.
Against this, the new Leon ST CUPRA is astonishingly efficient, with fuel economy of 42.8 (DSG) and 42.2 (manual). This equates to CO2 figures of just 154 and 157 grams per kilometre.
Making it even more intriguing is the availability of the ‘Sub8 Performance Pack’ on ST CUPRA. The optional pack includes larger Brembo brake callipers, specially-designed 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels in either black or orange and body-coloured side skirts. For £2,025 including VAT. Semi-slick Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, as fitted to SEAT’s fastest production car when it became the first front-wheel-drive production car to dip under the then elusive eight-minute Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit lap time, are available for £460.
Hi-tech engine components
As a true high performance engine, the 2.0 TSI reacts spontaneously to every brush of the accelerator pedal and is deliciously high revving – paired with a rich and refined sound that is aided and modulated by a sound actuator. The all-new power unit with its exceptionally responsive turbocharger is packed full with hi-tech and groundbreaking features – in the dual-injection system, the gasoline direct injection is complemented under partial load by manifold injection. Its optimum set-up reduces fuel consumption and particulate emissions. Cylinder fill is always in the optimum range – the camshafts are adjustable, with the valve lift system regulating opening on the exhaust side. The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head and is part of the innovative thermo management system. An improved coating and alloy for the aluminium pistons and the bearings keeps friction to a minimum. The CUPRA efficiency package also includes the start/stop system and brake energy regeneration.
The Chassis – hi-tech for precision and dynamics
CUPRA has always been synonymous with outstanding dynamics, precise agility and sporting character. The latest Leon CUPRA, however, manages to set the bar a good deal higher – in every dimension. With Dynamic Chassis Control, front-axle differential lock and progressive steering all fitted as standard, it achieves considerably faster laps on the track than its already impressive predecessor. At the same time, it is significantly more relaxed to drive, with a surprisingly refined level of comfort even on long motorway journeys. Safe and reliable deceleration comes courtesy of the CUPRA-specific, high-performance brake system, recognisable by its red callipers.
DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control)
The key fundamentals of the dynamics are low weight and a stiff structure. The systematic lightweight design of the new Leon family is also evident on the ST CUPRA. The new generation of Dynamic Chassis Control developed specifically for the CUPRA is even more sensitive and responsive, adapting the chassis characteristics to the prevailing conditions in a matter of milliseconds. The same applies to the driver’s preferences, with the CUPRA Drive Profile able to be tailored specifically to their mood.
Front-axle differential lock
The new front-axle differential lock significantly improves the traction and handling of this front-wheel-drive car. The system uses a multi-plate package that is hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled. The maximum locking force is 1,600 Nm and, in extreme cases, 100 per cent of the drive can be sent to one wheel. The differential lock is integrated into all the handling systems like ESP and EDS. It not only improves the traction, but also eliminates torque steer. Furthermore, its sensitive control has no negative impact on steering feel.
Progressive steering
Also included as standard equipment, the progressive steering improves the agile handling of the new Leon ST CUPRA. The driver experiences a precise and relaxed steering feel, less steering movement is required, reducing the number of grip changes, especially in cornering or parking manoeuvres. The steering in the new Leon CUPRA works with a progressive ratio through variable toothing on the rack.
The ESP handling system has been further developed especially for the new Leon ST CUPRA and enables a very sporty driving style with full retention of safety functionality. For extremely dynamic use, such as on a race track, it can also be deactivated in two stages – the first stage deactivates the traction control and puts the ESP into sport mode, permitting greater yaw angles. The second stage deactivates the ESP completely.
CUPRA Drive Profile
The CUPRA Drive Profile enables the characteristics of the new Leon ST CUPRA to be adapted across a very wide range to meet the individual preferences of the driver. Alongside the Comfort and Sport modes, the CUPRA mode was, of course, a focal point for the engineers in Martorell. Throttle response is particularly sensitive in this setting, while the DSG operates in its sportiest shifting mode and the sound actuator supports the full tone of the turbocharged engine. The Dynamic Chassis Control, progressive steering and the front-axle differential lock also operate at their sportiest settings.
The Design – emotional and powerful
Emotional design is a great strength of the Leon family. For the new CUPRA, this has been developed one step further. The stretched silhouette of the ST estate version fits perfectly to the big, distinctive wheels. The new front end with its large air intakes and full-LED headlamps ensures a powerful look, as do the rear skirt with its diffuser effect and the two oval end pipes. The alloy wheels are exclusive to the CUPRA, while the red brake callipers and tinted side and rear windscreen underline its individuality.
The focus of the interior is on the CUPRA sports steering wheel in its own unique design complete with shifting paddles for the optional DSG transmission, as well as the top sports seats in black Alcantara finished with white stitching. Black leather upholstery, likewise with white stitching, is also available. For extreme lateral grip, there are optional bucket seats. The pedals and door sills are made from aluminium.
The ST CUPRA 280 is visually differentiated through its unique 19-inch wheels with a titanium paint finish, the Aerodynamic Pack with the spoiler on the rear roof edge, CUPRA lettering on the brake callipers and black door mirror housings. The trim elements in the cockpit of this top sporty variant are a deep glossy
The Equipment – exclusive and individual
The Leon ST CUPRA 280 also states its position as the top model in the SEAT range through the progressive steering, dynamic chassis control, front-axle differential lock, CUPRA Drive Profile and high-performance brake system with 19-inch wheels.
Also standard equipment, are the full-LED headlamps and the LED rear lights. Alongside their distinctive design, LED headlamps have many further benefits – they illuminate the road ahead at a colour temperature of 5,300 Kelvin. Because this is very similar to daylight, it places very little strain on the eyes. When it comes to efficiency, the LEDs consume minimal energy – dipped beam, for instance, draws just 20 watts per unit.
The top sports seats in alcantara, the CUPRA steering wheel and Media System Plus with a 5.8-inch colour touchscreen are all among the standard interior features. One particular feature in the CUPRA interior is the ambient lighting. LEDs in the door panels emphasise the contours of the interior design and add to the premium feel of the passenger compartment. At the same time, the ambient lighting offers occupants improved orientation and an even greater sense of spaciousness. The colour of the LEDs can be adapted via the CUPRA Drive Profile – they glow red in CUPRA mode, with the standard setting being white.
The look of the Leon ST CUPRA can be enhanced with the optional White Line, Black Line and Orange Line packs. The surrounds of the radiator grille and door mirrors and parts of the two-tone aluminium wheels are painted in the respective colour – with the Orange Line standing for Cup Racer orange.
Note: The new SEAT Leon ST CUPRA 280 will be available to book from the UK Press fleet from May 2015.
SEAT is the only company in its sector with the full-range capacity to design, develop, manufacture and market cars in Spain. A member of the Volkswagen Group, the multinational has its headquarters in Martorell (Barcelona), exporting more than 80% of its vehicles, and is present in more than 75 countries. In 2013 SEAT achieved a business volume of 6,473 million euros, the highest figure in its history, with worldwide sales of 355,000 units.
SEAT Group employs 14,000 professionals at its three production centres – Barcelona, El Prat de Llobregat and Martorell, where it manufactures the highly successful Ibiza and Leon, amongst other models. Additionally, the company produces the Alhambra in Palmela (Portugal), the Mii in Bratislava (Slovakia) and the Toledo in Mladá Boleslav (Czech Republic).
The Spanish multinational also has a Technical Center, a ‘knowledge hub’, bringing together more than 900 engineers whose goal is to be the driving force behind innovation for the number one industrial investor in R&D in Spain. In line with its declared commitment to environmental protection, SEAT undertakes and bases its core activity on sustainability, namely reduction of CO2 emissions, energy efficiency, as well as recycling and re-use of resources.
SEAT CONFIRMS UK PRICING AND SPECIFICATION OF LEON ST CUPRA 280
- SEAT’s first high-performance estate Leon ST (Sports Tourer) CUPRA 280 to cost £28,505 (manual) and £29,860 (DSG) OTR
- Hottest estate in its class sports 2.0 turbocharged 280 PS engine, hitting 0-62 mph in six seconds (6.1 for manual) and limited top speed of 155 mph
- Leon ST CUPRA 280 has no direct lower-medium class performance estate rival, offering more power and equipment for the money than anything else
- UK debut at Daily Telegraph Outdoor & Adventure Show, 12-15 February 2015
- Ordering for UK cars is now open, ahead of showroom launch in March 2015
SEAT has confirmed pricing and specification for the third model in its fire-breathing Leon CUPRA range, the ST CUPRA 280. Priced from £28,505 on-the-road, the new “Q-car” offers quite simply performance and practicality without compromise.
The sporty Spanish brand is now the only manufacturer to offer a flagship performance version in three bodystyles on one of its models. In the Leon’s case, the latest ST CUPRA 280 now joins the fold with its three-door SC and five-door Leon siblings.
The hottest of the current crop of “hot estates”, the Leon ST CUPRA 280’s two-litre turbocharged 280 PS engine can propel it from 0-62 mph in six seconds (6.1 for manual), before going onto a limited top speed of 155 mph. At the same time, whether it’s a tradesman’s trusty workhorse, or school run load-carrier, it’s still an easy car to live with.
With such an impressive amount of power, good looks, solid build quality and high equipment level, SEAT’s latest model can lay claim to having arguably no direct hot estate rival for the money. On paper, its closest mass market competitor is the Ford Focus ST-3. However, not only is it outgunned by 30 PS in the performance stakes, the Blue Oval’s challenger also comes with significantly less equipment. Ominously for premium carmakers, with its 280 PS potency, engaging driving experience, high residual value and large load-carrying ability, the new Leon ST CUPRA 280 is also straying into their hallowed territory from the class above.
Inside and out, the ST CUPRA 280 retains all of the Leon ST’s usual style and practicality, including its sizeable 587-litre boot, which rises to 1,470 litres with the rear seats folded at the pull of a single lever. Immediately distinguishable from other Leons, the newcomer boasts 19-inch CUPRA alloy wheels with titanium finish, red brake callipers, rear spoiler and diffuser housing two oval end chrome tailpipes, together with substantial air intakes at the front.
As with the other two halo versions in the range, the ST CUPRA 280 comes highly kitted out. In keeping with its positioning as an everyday sports car, it comes with an enviable list of luxury touches and gadgetry to make life that little bit easier and driving even more enjoyable.
First up is CUPRA Drive Profile, which enables the driver to alter the car’s suspension, steering and throttle set-up as the mood takes them. The performance theme runs through the interior with a CUPRA leather steering wheel and Alcantara sports seats, while auto lights and wipers, SEAT Media System Plus and DAB radio, plus satellite navigation round off its comprehensive equipment tally.
Extensive options list
As the Leon flagship, CUPRA 280s can be upgraded to impressive heights. Whether its the fitment of the ‘Sub8 Performance Pack’, or a CUPRA Colour-Line pack (Black, Orange or White), the car is sure to get more than its fair share of attention wherever it’s seen.
Straight out of the factory, the Leon ST CUPRA 280 is already a hot estate to be reckoned with. However, owners looking to create something even more special can specify the Sub8 Performance Pack. For £2,025 including VAT, it includes even more substantial brakes, specially-designed 19-inch alloy wheels in either black or orange and body-coloured side skirts. Semi-slick Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, which also featured on SEAT’s fastest production car to date, are available for £460.
The aforementioned Black-, Orange- and White-Line colour packs, at £500 will ensure the ST CUPRA 280 stands out for all the right reasons. Taking the standard car’s looks to another level, it ensures the standard 19-inch CUPRA alloy wheels are picked out in black, orange or white, according to the chosen pack, with co-ordinating door mirrors and tailgate lettering. The front grille surround and door mirrors also come in the same shade, with the mean and moody look completed through painted brake callipers (red for black wheels and black for orange wheels).
In addition to the styling enhancements, ST CUPRA 280 drivers also have a plethora of other individual options and packs to choose from. Among them, are the SEAT Sound system for £255, Driver Assist Pack (which takes in High Beam Assist and Lane Assist) at £300, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Front Assist for £505. Lastly, for those keen to venture on track with the hottest compact estate, CUPRA bucket seats are likely to prove a boon. For £1,250 they come clad in black Alcantara upholstery with white simil leather bolsters, and feature a one-piece head restraint, CUPRA logo and heating.
Potential UK buyers will be able to catch their first glimpse of the latest addition to SEAT’s iconic CUPRA stable at the Daily Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show, held at London’s ExCel, from 12-15 February 2015.
UK ordering for the Leon ST CUPRA 280 is now open ahead of showroom launch in March.