Volkswagen’s Spain-based SEAT division has introduced a hot-rodded station wagon called Leon ST Cupra. Starting with a stock Leon station wagon, SEAT has added a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque in its standard state of tune. The turbo four sends the ST Cupra from zero to 100 kmph in 6.1 seconds when linked to a dual-clutch DSG transmission and 6.2 seconds when bolted to a six-speed manual gearbox. Fuel economy is rated at 56 kmpg in a mixed European cycle.
Buyers after more power can order a tweaked version of the 2.0-liter rated at 280 ponies. The extra grunt lowers the time that the wagon takes to reach 100 kmph from a dead stop to 6 seconds flat when linked to the DSG gearbox.
The 265-horsepower Cupra stands out from a standard family-hauling Leon wagon thanks to a deep front bumper with three large air ducts, LED headlights, side skirts, an air diffuser integrated into the rear bumper and 18-inch wheels. 280-horsepower models gain 19-inch alloys, a roof-mounted spoiler, black door mirrors and “Cupra” logos painted on the brake calipers.
Interior pictures were not published but SEAT promises the sporty treatment continues inside with Alcantara-upholstered front sport seats and a Cupra-specific instrument cluster. Both versions of the wagon come standard with a 6.5-inch touch screen that runs SEAT’s Media System Plus infotainment system, progressive steering, Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) and LED ambient lighting. Cargo capacity checks in at 20.7 cubic feet with five occupants on board or a generous 52 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
The 2015 SEAT Leon ST Cupra will be presented to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show that will take place next March. It is scheduled to go on sale across Europe next summer, though pricing information hasn’t been published for the time being.