CUPRA LEON ORDERS OPEN

Cup ra has begun to take orders for its new Leon hot hatch, launching the hybrid version ahead of traditional petrol-only variants.

The Leon e -Hybrid starts at £34,495 and will be available in three trim levels and five-door hatchback or estate body styles.

Powering the e-hybrid is a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine and single electric motor providing a combined 242bhp and 295lb ft. Cupra says this offers a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds and a fuel consumption of up to 217.3mpg, with CO2 emissions of 30g/km.

The hybrid motor is powered by a 13kwh battery pack which will provide up to 32 miles of all-electric driving.

Next year will see the introduction of three all-petrol versions. Two-wheel-drive versions with 242bhp or 297bhp will cost £31,450 and £35,000 respectively. Later in 2021 a 306bhp all-wheel-drive estate will join the line-up.

All Leon Cupras feature 19-inch black and silver alloys, twin exhausts, full-width rear lighting and chrome and copper detailing. Inside the chrome and copper signature is continued and the cabin features Cupra embossed racing bucket seats, a leather steering wheel and Cupra sports pedals all fitted as standard.

Standard equipment includes key less entry, a digital instrument display, 10-inch touchscreen with sat nav, smartphone integration, and wraparound ambient lighting. Safety kit includes a tiredness recognition system, lane keeping and front assist.

VZ3 trim brings different 19-inch alloys, heated petrol blue Nappa leather seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging and, on the estate, an electric tailgate with hands-free operation. First Edition adds dynamic road sign display, high beam assist, predictive and adaptive cruise control, side and exit assist and lane change assist.