Leapmotor goes after GTI with hot version of new B05 hatch

Leapmotor has revealed a new warmed-up Ultra version of its B05 hatchback at the Beijing motor show, previewing a potential new line of range-topping models featuring extra power and other performance upgrades.

Known in China as the Lafa 5, the standard version of the Volkswagen ID 3 Neo rival will arrive in the UK in the coming months, although it isn't yet known if the new Ultra variant will eventually follow.

In China, the Lafa 5 Ultra features a notable boost in power to 241bhp, up from 215bhp in the standard model, which is sent to the rear wheels through a single motor on the back axle.

Leapmotor has also increased the responsiveness of the motor to enhance the driving experience, and the Ultra can achieve 0-62mph in 5.9sec.

It will be offered with either a 56.2kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery giving a range of 312 miles or a 67.1kWh version that can run for 373 miles. Both of those figures are according to the Chinese CLTC test cycle.

The ride height has been lowered to 1510mm (from 1810mm in the standard model), while weight has been reduced to 1665kg, with Leapmotor claiming a 50:50 distribution front to rear.

There are a series of exterior styling tweaks, including a front splitter, sculpted bodywork elements, a rear wing that's claimed to improve aerodynamics and 19in wheels clothed in Hankook performance tyres.

The interior has also been given a makeover with a focus on adding extra refinement, with new ‘suede-inspired’ sport seats.

The Ultra will be priced in China from around £15,000, compared with a starting price of £10,600 for the regular Lafa 5.

Autocar understands that the Ultra name could be used for warmed-up versions of other models in the Leapmotor range where there's likely to be demand.

The standard B05 will reach the UK and other European markets later in the coming months and will be joined later this year by the Ford Puma-rivalling B03X crossover.