2001 SEAT Leon Cupra 4 1.9 TDI 6MT AWD (150 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The Spanish brand SEAT introduced two Cupra versions for the successful first generation of the Leon model in 2001, unveiling the carmaker’s ambitions to create sporty vehicles.

SEAT introduced the first generation of the Leon in 1999 based on the same PQ34 platform as the Volkswagen Golf IV, Audi TT, and Skoda Octavia. While most versions were available with a front-wheel drive setup, the carmaker knew that it could install different powertrains carried over from its parent company, Volkswagen Group. So when it introduced the sportiest version of the Leon in 2001, the Cupra, it dared to ask for it and received it. Thus, the Leon became a proper hot-hatch threatening even some more expensive vehicles within the group, such as the Audi A3.

While Giorgetto Giugiaro was mostly known for the wedged shapes created for many vehicles, the Leon was exactly the opposite: it sported curved lines and soft edges. But the Cupra version received additional visual upgrades to differentiate it from its lesser-powered siblings. First of all, it featured a different front apron on the lower side of the bumper sporting a broad lower grille flanked split in three with a narrow center air intake flanked by wider scoops that also hosted the foglights. At the back, to complete the car’s sporty appearance, the carmaker added a roof spoiler at the top of the tailgate.

Inside, the Leon Cupra received a pair of Recaro sport seats at the front upholstered in Alcantara. The curved dashboard design was similar to the rest of the Leon range, but the dials featured white background and red needles.

Under the hood, SEAT offered the Cupra with a choice of two engines: a 2.8-liter V6 or a 1.9-liter turbo-diesel unit pushed to a staggering, for those times, 150 PS (148 hp). Both versions were paired to a six-speed manual gearbox that sent the power in all corners.