The current third-generation Leon Cupra, which is built on VW's MQB platform at SEAT's Martorell factory, was announced in 2013, with orders taken from January 2014. Available with two different power outputs - 265hp and 280hp - the car's performance credentials were emphasised when SEAT revealed that a version of the Leon Cupra 280 had achieved a Nurburgring front-wheel drive
production car lap record
of just 7 minutes 57.44 seconds. And opened a right can of worms about the spec of the car that actually achieved it...
Initial prices ranged from £25,690 to £28,525, with the new Leon flagship available in two body styles - an SC three-door and a five-door hatchback - plus two transmission choices (six-speed manual and six-speed DSG) as well as the pair of power outputs.
The Leon Cupra 280 DSG can beat 62mph in just 5.7 seconds and comes with DCC Dynamic Chassis Control - the first SEAT to feature an adaptive suspension setup. And the Cupra also benefits from VW's VAQ 'locking differential' rather than the previous model's ESP-based XDS system.
An estate version - the Leon ST Cupra 280 - followed in January 2015, SEAT's first attempt at a high-performance estate, with the option of six-speed DSG or manual transmission and price tag of £28,505 for the manual and £29,860 for the DSG version.
Compared to the Mk2 Cupra the styling drama has been taken down a notch or too, but there's no lack of excitement from behind the wheel, especially if you are prepared to splash out £4,200 on SEAT's bespoke
Ultimate Sub8 Performance Pack
, which adds 30mm larger front brakes with Brembo calipers, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, body coloured side skirts, multi-spoke alloys in black or orange and a host of weight reduction measures.
The latest Leon Cupra 290 will be arriving at a SEAT dealership near you any day now, further extending the Mk3 Cupra's lifetime, with SEAT so far having sold 1,236 examples. Well-tended used examples start at just £18,000.
Jody Lees really rates the latest Cupra's cabin feel in particular. "The noticeable difference in these later generation Leons is that the interior quality is now much higher. They are simply a much nicer place to be, whilst the vehicle still retains blistering performance to keep hot hatch lovers happy!"
Tuning-wise the potential is high, according to Revo's Paul Farenden. "These run the same motor as the Mk7 Golf R, offering amazing tuning potential. The latest TSI motor a real gem, with 375hp possible on software alone."
But in the short term these benefits may not keep residuals as high as previous incarnations. "This generation Leon will have to work hard to maintain its residual value position in a much more competitive and value driven world," says Glass's Steve Jackson. "Increased volume will only put pressure on those future values as other C-segment models compete."
Buy if: You want a great-value performance estate or the reassurance of a new car warranty
Don't buy if: Residuals are important, or you want to be noticed
We found:2015 Leon Cupra 2.0 TSI SC, black, 4K miles, £19,995
Price Guide
Poor: Under £18,000
Good: £18,000 to £26,000
A1: £26,000+