By Ian Strachan.
SEAT’s strategy of using the CUPRA brand for its upmarket and performance vehicles is resulting in some very attractive new choices. The CUPRA Leon Estate is a case in point. The SEAT Leon Estate has transformed from a practical but fairly conservative family car to an elegant and sporty performance vehicle.
Smart CUPRA badging, sharper looks and more technology have added to an already desirable mix. The CUPRA Leon in estate form has good looks, a very smooth ride, good handling, a well-powered engine and a comfortable and roomy interior.
I test drove the CUPRA Leon Estate in VZ2 4Drive spec, powered by a zippy two-litre petrol engine capable of taking you from 0-60 in less than five seconds.
The responsive 310 bhp engine has a top speed of 155 mph where allowed, but can still return a respectable 34.4 miles to the gallon in mixed driving.
The power plant is easy-revving and is never under strain. Married to a smooth seven-speed automatic gearbox it gives excellent acceleration through the range. A feature on the dashboard reminds you when you need to change gear for the most frugal driving.
Ride and handling is both refined and composed, with sure-footed cornering, even at speed. Sports suspension is firm without being hard.
Inside, the CUPRA Leon Estate is impressively roomy, particularly in the back. Instruments are well laid out and clear. The high quality leather and cloth seats are comfortable and supportive.
Standard equipment on the well equipped VZ2spec which I tested includes a 10-inch colour touchscreen for media and satnav controls as well as heating and over driver features, DAB radio with Bluetooth and steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, electrically operated and heated door mirrors with CUPRA puddle lights, all-round airbags, electric windows and daytime running lights.
You also get attractive interior wraparound lighting with a built-in blind spot monitor, ambient lighting, front sports seats, park assist, lane control assist, On the road price of this CUPRA Leon Estate 2.0 TSI VZ2 4Drive 310PS is a competitive £38,570. My test car had metallic paint at an extra £540.
This is an excellent, high performance, smooth running, sporty and sophisticated estate that feels more expensive than it is.
