The standard Leon offers a decent drive; it’s poised, accurate and compliant. The Cupra builds on this with bespoke suspension. Aluminum replaces steel for the steering knuckles and wishbone panelling, saving 7.5kg at the front axle. Consequently, the Cupra runs softer springs and a thinner front anti-roll bar than the FR and rides 7mm lower (14mm lower than the standard car). Over tumbling British B-roads, it rides better than expected.
Occasionally, though, the Cupra can struggle, particularly over motorway crests or sudden compressions. The dampers act too quickly, leaving your body either floating or compressed into the seat.
Standard 18-inch, 225-section tyres give the Cupra strong grip in the dry before eventually pushing into gentle understeer. Compared with the Golf GTi, it grips harder and for longer, but with less adjustability, the rear axle playing a less active role in the cornering balance. In more challenging damp or greasy conditions the Cupra chassis feels less clever, the front tyres occasionally struggling to find purchase.
With 237bhp transmitted through the front wheels and very little torque steer, it is perhaps no surprise that the Cupra is short on steering feel. The electrically assisted steering is better than most, but not as communicative as we’d like.
Big 345mm ventilated front disc brakes stop the Cupra reassuringly quickly and remain resilient to heavy use. Yet in less extreme applications the initial bite is too harsh and the pedal travel lacks progression. The six-speed manual gearbox (there’s no DSG option), however, is slick and the bespoke ratios well chosen.
It's just a pity the gearlever itself is awkwardly shaped. Hot hatches need a sense of tactility to their controls – not just in the way they move but also in the surfaces you touch. No complaints about the steering wheel, though; it’s compact in diameter and the chunky rim feels suitably purposeful.