Seat Leon Cupra/ Cupra R (2000-) Review

Running Costs

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Claimed fuel consumption figures are around 30mpg for both Cupra and Cupra R models, but if you drive with a leaden right boot you'll be lucky to see the good side of 25mpg. Insurance costs will be steep, too, because both models sit in group 17. There is a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty and service intervals are at every 10,000 miles. The Cupra holds its value better than the average Seat. Because the Leon isn't one of the UK's top-selling cars, there aren't many around. However, of those that are on offer, 20VT Cupras comprise a large proportion of Leon sales. The Cupra R is rare; it sells in hundreds rather than thousands each year. Our User Tests report indifferent things about some Seat dealers, so thoroughly check any service history and mechanicals before buying, especially as this is a hot hatchback and has the potential to be thrashed. Buy wisely, however, and the Cupra and Cupra R make great-value, high-performance used cars. It's hard to argue against the Leon as a value package given how much space, performance and equipment that the models pack. Both come with automatic air conditioning, ABS, driver, passengers and side airbags, remote locking with alarm, alloy wheels, CD player and electric windows and mirrors. An auto isn't on offer, and leather trim can't be specified on the Cupra R, which has expensive alcantara sports seats anyway. Plus, both models have five doors, decent space in the cabin and boot and split/fold rear seats. And they pack plenty of power. Only Seat's sister company, Skoda, with its Octavia vRS, offers so much for so little.