The SEAT Leon III Cupra R 2.0 TSI (310 Hp) is a high-performance variant of the SEAT Leon, a compact hatchback produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT, which is a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. Introduced in 2017 as part of the facelifted third-generation Leon (2016-2020), the Cupra R represented the pinnacle of performance for the model range. While SEAT vehicles are not officially sold in the United States, the Leon is a popular model in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Cupra R specifically targets enthusiasts seeking a potent and engaging driving experience in a practical hatchback package.
SEAT Leon III Cupra R: A Performance Hatchback
The Leon Cupra R was designed to offer a more focused and aggressive driving experience than the standard Cupra models. It combined a powerful turbocharged engine with a sophisticated chassis and a range of performance-enhancing features. The “R” designation historically signifies SEAT’s highest performance models, often incorporating track-focused enhancements. This model was produced for a limited time, from 2017 to 2018, adding to its collectibility.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Leon Cupra R lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CJXG. This engine produces 310 horsepower at 5,800-6,500 rpm and 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,800 and 5,700 rpm. This output translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 156.3 hp/l. The engine utilizes both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.8 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 4.4 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.6 kg/Nm contribute to the car’s responsive and agile handling.
Design & Features
The SEAT Leon III Cupra R is a five-door hatchback with a sporty and aggressive design. It features a distinctive front grille, aerodynamic body kit, and a rear spoiler. The interior is equipped with sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. Standard features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system), electric power steering, and a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency. The car’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating coil springs and anti-roll bars. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, measuring 370×22 mm at the front and 310×22 mm at the rear. The Cupra R rides on 8J x 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 235/35 R19 tires. The vehicle offers a trunk (boot) space of 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Leon |
| Generation | Leon III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | Cupra R 2.0 TSI (310 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 170 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5800-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1800-5700 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXG |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1378 kg (3037.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 552 kg (1216.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4324 mm (170.24 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm (103.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.66 m (34.97 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
The SEAT Leon III Cupra R 2.0 TSI (310 Hp) offered a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and style. While not officially available in the US market, it remains a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a spirited driving experience in a compact hatchback format.
