SEAT Leon Cup Racer revealed

SEAT has revealed its new Leon cup racer at the Austrian tuning show at Wörthersee. The 326bhp racer previews the next generation of touring car, and is the basis for testing and development work in the coming months. The racer also points towards a continuing motorsport presence from SEAT, and a what the next-generation Leon Cupra will look like.

Based on a somewhat modified five-door Leon body shell, the front and rear track has been increased by 400mm, with a set of wide arches covering the 18-inch racing wheels. The aerodynamic kit has been optimized for engine and brake cooling at the front, with a flat floor, diffuser and two-phase roof spoiler for downforce.

Powered by a suitably modified version of the Volkswagen 2.0-litre turbo engine, the Leon Cup Racer produces 326bhp, which it transferred to the front wheels via a choice of transmission. The standard option, which costs £59,058 (€70,000) is fitted with a DSG transmission, with the ‘Endurance’ version getting a sequential ‘box and mechanical differential lock for £81,151 (€95,000). Both versions should be available for the 2014 season, with a 1.6-engined WTCC car also in the pipeline.

SEAT will also be showing an updated version of the smaller Ibiza race car, which now comes with 197bhp, as well as a new bodykit and other accessories for the recently launched 178bhp Leon FR.