Notably, it is the most powerful front-wheel drive Leon ever; the maximum power of 325 hp exceeds the 310 hp of the old Cupra R. That means 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds (the seven-speed DSG is standard, obvs) and an unrestricted top speed. That hasn’t really been announced yet, but will likely be in the region of 165 mph if the Performance Pack Golf Rs is anything to go by. Cupra promises a ‘gut soundtrack’ from the four copper exhaust pipes.
But it’s the changes elsewhere that really make the VZ TCR interesting, with Akebono six-piston front brakes, lightweight wheels, wider ‘performance’ tires and four-point belts for the CUP bucket seats. The rear seats can even be removed entirely, which is quite a dramatic change, with a strut bar at the rear and an integrated net to prevent messages from shooting at your head. Why Cupra did all this and chose not to take any photos for the time being is unclear, but we’ll have to take their word for it for now. The track-ready Leon seems to be making a comeback just like the old Sub8s.
The cosmetic overhaul includes a new aero kit (front and rear splitters, side skirts, spoiler and so on) plus dark chrome Cupra badging and carbon trim. Don’t get too used to it, though: Cupra will only make 499 of these Leons, because it made 499 examples of the real racing cars. However, all hope is not lost as 1,500 non-TCR VZs will also be offered. In fact, they come first and will be launched in the first quarter of next year, with the same 325 hp output. Since only two images of the TCR have been released so far, it will come as no surprise that there is only a single photo of the rear of the VZ. But we’re told to expect ‘the DNA of Cupra Racing in a car designed for everyday thrills.’
VP R&D at Cupra, Dr. Werner Tietz, added: “The Cupra Leon VZ TCR is a bold expression of what happens when racing meets precision on the road. This limited edition, born on the track and made for the street, reflects Cupra’s drive for performance, individuality and the thrill of pushing boundaries.” It’s not yet clear whether VZ or VZ TCR will be offered in the UK, but let’s hope so: they sound like the most interesting Leons ever. Or the ads are ready for a taste of the classic Cupra charm – including orange…
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