Seat has always used these designations for its fast cars:
FR, Cupra and Cupra R. FR's were already quite sporty.
The Golf V GTI was equal to the Seat Léon FR.
But FR has been devaluated. It even comes on 1.4 engines now.
The Ibiza FR was just a bit dynamic. You had to have a Cupra.
So, how about the Cupra label now? Here's the Léon Cupra. The ST.
How does ST differ? The ride and engine are equal.
Though it weighs 70 kg's extra, mostly in the rear. Balance is better.
A test driver told me the ST goes 5 kph quicker on the Nordschleife.
The rear creates less drag. Above 160 kph, the ST goes quicker.
How about the boot space then?
Okay, let's drive!
It's a manual! Fun times. A DSG is too 'senseless.'
The Chassis then. A Léon hatch could battle the Mégane RS.
Renault reclaimed the FWD Nordschleife record now, with tricks.
Seat doesn't do that. It stays classy.
Actually, the Cupra is quite comfy. A Focus ST is harder.
Even when you push it, it remains tight. It's lighter, too.
Less nose-heavy thanks to the MQB platform.
Also: a mechanical LSD, so it just grips. Power in the revs!
This car is SO good. This just beats Méganes RS and Focuses ST.
It's more relaxed and keeps its traction.
But it does lack a bit of excitement. An RS has more feeling.
The Focus ST is more fun on the road. On track, that loses.
The Cupra seems less sharp but corners amazingly well.
Amazing. Performance is the best thing about this car.
+ Amazing engine; ST as dynamic as hatchback
- Steering a bit clinical; Boring interior