SEAT updates hot hatches

May’s Barcelona Motor Show will see the unveiling of two new sporty SEATs that may well make their way to the region.

The new Leon Cupra and Ibiza FR haven’t been given major overhauls but both get tweaks for their release, which will be later this year in Europe and probably a bit later over here.

The range-topping Leon Cupra keeps its 237bhp 2.0 turbocharged engine but gets a new face, with big vents underneath the grille and an updated front bumper. The back gets a similar makeover, with an oval exhaust pipe and the Cupra name emblazoned on the boot. The Cupra sits on 18-inch alloys and rides lower than other Leon models for a sportier look and drive.

Inside, black is the colour du jour, with aluminium inserts and pedals adding some sporting sparkle to the interior. Buckets seats are included, emblazoned with the Cupra logo.

Safety features include ABS, ESP and emergency brake assist, while other features include cornering foglights, cruise control and climate control.

The Ibiza Cupra was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2008, and the new FR model sits just below it in terms of power and performance. It delivers 148bhp from its supercharged and turbocharged 1.4-litre engine. This is attached to a seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox with steering wheel paddles fitted as standard. Visual changes include new bumpers, a chrome surround on the central grille and new 17-inch alloys.

Inside, the FR gets a model-specific instrument panel, a new steering wheel and a sporty seat design. Standard equipment includes ESP, emergency brake assist, ABS and Hill Hold Control, as well as a tyre pressure monitoring system, cruise control and cornering foglights.