SEAT Leon ST Cupra revealed

SEAT has broadened the appeal of the Leon ST estate by fitting it with the 276bhp, 2.0-litre petrol engine from the Leon Cupra to create the SEAT Leon ST Cupra. It means you (and rather a lot of luggage) can now be propelled from 0-62mph in just six seconds.

The extra load-lugging capacity comes courtesy of a 587-litre boot (up from the hatchback's 380 litres) that extends to 1,470 litres when the rear seats are folded down. The mix of performance and practicality puts the ST Cupra in direct contention with models such as the Ford Focus ST estate and the Octavia vRS estate – although the SEAT is quicker than both.

Elsewhere it’s business as usual, so buyers get the aforementioned range-topping (276bhp) Cupra 280, which comes standard with SEAT’s DSG automatic gearbox. The Cupra 265, which will be sold in Europe with either a manual or DSG gearbox, is not being brought to the UK.

Driver’s aids are also carried over from the hatchback and the ST Cupra comes with dynamic chassis control, a front-axle differential lock, and progressive steering. All aim to make the car faster (and easier to drive) in the corners. The Cupra Drive Profile, meanwhile, lets the driver setup the car to feel sporty or comfortable.

SEAT’s thrown plenty of go-faster accessories at the ST Cupra. They include aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts and big alloy wheels (18-inch on the 265 and 19-inch on the 280), so there’s no risk it will be mistaken for a more humdrum model. Aside from the larger wheels, the 280 also has a roof spoiler, ‘Cupra’ branded brakes, and black wing mirrors.

Both models can be spruced up further if you wish with white, black or orange highlights for the grille surround, wing mirrors and wheels.

Standard equipment includes full-LED headlamps, LED rear lights, Alcantara upholstery, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen.

The Leon ST Cupra will cost £28,505 for the manual version and £29,860 for the DSG automatic, compared to £25,960 for the hatchback. For reviews of the SEAT Leon Cupra and ST estate, visit the Carbuyer SEAT reviews page.