Seat made an attempt at entering the South African market a while ago but sadly its run was short and the brand was eventually forced to cease operations. It’s been performing fairly well as a subsidiary of Volkswagen in international markets thanks to the combination of its funky Spanish design and German engineering. The Leon Cupra 290 is a fine example of this.
The Cupra 290 makes use of Volkswagen’s 1 984 cc turbocharged engine but power is pushed to 213 kW and 350 N.m of torque (the lower 195 kW is available in the standard Cupra). The power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual or optional DSG transmission and provides a 0-100 acceleration time of 5,7 seconds. Top speed is limited at 250 km/h.
The Cupra 290 comes standard with a DCC dynamic chassis control, front differential lock, progressive steering, the Cupra Drive Profile and the full-LED headlamps. These feature similar components found in the GTI Performance Pack and Golf R.
The diff lock features a multi-plate package makes use of hydraulic components that are electronically controlled. The maximum locking force can reach up to 1 600 N.m and deliver 100% of the drive to one wheel in extreme cornering to manage torque steer and traction. This works hand in hand with the progressive steering system which, through variable toothing on the rack, is able to change its personality based on the driver’s profile.
Within the Cabin of the Cupra 290, drivers will have a set of Alcantara sports seats, a special Cupra steering wheel with multi-function buttons controlling the 6,5-inch infotainment screen and ambient lighting.
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