SEAT’s high-performance Cupra spin-off is to launch fast versions of the new Leon, including a plug-in hybrid variant.

The Cupra Leon eHybrid five-door

Revealed a month after SEAT unveiled its fourth-generation Leon and following in the footsteps of the Cupra Ateca, it’ll be the first Leon range to carry the Cupra badge and will place focus on desirability and technology, backed by a range of powerful engines, from 245 to 310hp and all with DSG shift-by-wire technology.

Available in both hatchback and estate models and available to pre-order now, the range will include 2.0-litre TSI petrol engines in 245hp and 300hp front-wheel drive versions and a range-topping 310hp all-wheel drive (estate-only) along with a 245hp eHybrid plug-in hybrid variant. This marries up a 150hp 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with a 115hp electric motor, giving 245hp total power along with WLTP CO2 emissions of below 50g/km.

The 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack will enable an electric-only range (WLTP) of up to 60km (37 miles) with full charging able to be carried out in 3.5 hours using a 3.6kW AC wall box (or six hours from a 230V domestic socket).

Rangewide standard equipment includes full LED front and rear lamps, rear coast-to-coast lighting, bucket seats, sports suspension, keyless entry and ambient lighting.