Seat Leon Cup Racer at Wörthersee

The highlight of Seat’s display at the imminent GTI-Treffen at Wörthersee, Austria is likely to be this just-revealed Leon Cup Racer.

Although it’s intended for use by customer teams in various championships, the Cup Racer’s arrival could also indicate that Seat is considering a return to the World Touring Car Championship.

Seat Leon Cup Racer 2013 Front

Power comes from a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine which generates 325 bhp (243 kW / 330 PS) with 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) of torque. That output is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox and an electronically-controlled differential lock.

A slightly different version has also been developed especially for endurance events such as the Nürburgring-based VLN series. It features a sequential transmission and a mechanical differential lock instead.

Under current regulations, the 2.0 litre engine would be ineligible to compete in the WTCC. However, Seat has already admitted that a compliant 1.6 litre turbo motor could be created, thereby solving that particular problem.

Visually, it’s definitely a case of form following function. Nevertheless, the road-going five-door Leon is a handsome car and the Cup Racer looks similarly impressive. Up front, the bumper unit has been redesigned with larger air intakes and it gains a splitter. 18” racing wheels are housed within extended wheel arches and the rear features both a diffuser and high-mounted wing for additional downforce.

Naturally the usual interior trim has been discarded in favour of a full roll cage and a single race seat. Carbon fibre abounds throughout the cabin and most of the controls are mounted on the multi-function steering wheel.

In standard form the Seat Leon Cup Racer is priced at €70,000, while the endurance model costs €95,000. Those amounts (which exclude VAT) equate to roughly £58,900 and £79,900 respectively at current exchange rates.

Seat is expecting deliveries to commence in time for the 2014 season.

Seat Leon Cup Racer 2013 Front SideSeat Leon Cup Racer 2013 Rear

Seat Leon Cup Racer 2013 DashboardSeat Leon Cup Racer 2013 Rear Side

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