SEAT Leon Cupra/FR

Our verdict

They’re a strange duo, the Cupra and FR. They’ve both got Golf GTI underpinnings, the Cupra’s got a bunch more power – 237bhp to be exact – but we prefer the FR. What’s going on?

Comfort

Is it just an illusion, or do the Cupra and FR feel just a little bit harsher than the Golf GTI they share their underpinnings with? The firm ride isn’t for everyone, and the cabin is a notch down on the Golf, but the Leon remains a hot hatch that’s easy to live with.

Performance

Cupra is blisteringly quick but slightly uninvolved, FR is only slightly slower but a much more entertaining experience. 168bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel FR is also worth considering – it’ll match the petrol FR through most in-gear acceleration and give you close to 50mpg.

Cool

Golf GTi without the Middle England connotations is all good, but the Leon just looks like it’s trying a bit too hard, doesn’t it?

Quality

Nothing to worry about here. Solid VW build quality, tried and tested engines, all good.

Handling

One-nil to the FR, here. For all the Cupra’s power, onboard interference seems to neuter the dynamic package, whereas the FR is blessed with huge amounts of grip, and takes on corners without a hint of understeer.

Practicality

Apart from the choppy ride on bad roads, the Leon is every bit as practical as the Golf or Focus – especially in five-door guise.

Running costs

Here’s where the diesel FR really makes sense. Cheaper road tax, cheaper insurance, better economy… but you still really want the petrol, don’t you?