This is hardly a surprising development but that doesn't diminish its brilliance in any way - if you like the SEAT Leon ST (estate), and you love the hot Cupra hatchback models, then rejoice: the Spanish firm has married the two together to create the Leon ST Cupra.
Interior
Taking its cues from the Cupra hatch, the ST Cupra's interior features a sports steering wheel (with paddle shifts if you opt for the DSG transmission), sports seats in black Alcantara, drilled aluminium pedals and white highlights here and there to lift it. All the equipment found on the Cupra hatchback is offered on the ST, which means it is pretty well-specified as standard and both versions have a large maximum load space of 1,470 litres.
Mechanicals
SEAT's 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine is transplanted into the ST and will be offered in Ireland solely in the higher 280hp format. There are two transmissions: the standard six-speed manual or the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic. Like the hatchback, the ST Cupra has progressive steering, dynamic chassis control, Cupra Drive Profile select, a limited-slip differential and uprated brakes.
The ST Cupra will crack 100km/h from rest in 6.1 seconds with a manual gearbox or 6.0 seconds with DSG. Top speed is limited to 250km/h flat out and it has 350Nm of torque from 1,700- to 5,600rpm. SEAT says the DSG car uses 6.6 litres/100km (42.8mpg) while the manual returns 6.7 litres/100km (42.2mpg), equating to CO2 emissions figures of 154- and 157g/km respectively.
There will be the option of a Performance Pack that comprises larger Brembo brake callipers, specific wheels and special tyres.
Anything else?
No word on prices yet, but expect the Leon ST Cupra to be marginally more expensive than the five-door hatchback version on which it is based. We expect to see the hot estate for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March before sales start in Ireland this summer.