Review

And with cars like this in SEAT's range, its sales performance is improving. Society of Motor Manufacturer and Traders' new car registration figures for June show that year-to-date registrations are up 11.48% (13,423 units to 14,964 units).

This is more vibrant growth compared to key competitors like Ford (0.54% increase), Vauxhall (3.19%), Volkswagen (2.95.%), Peugeot (3.87.%) and Citroen (3.05.%). And yet in the past year or two I have brought up the Leon in conversation with a number of intelligent and savvy non-motoring types and they confess they have never heard of it. I'd like to redress that here. In my opinion, the Leon is the best lower medium car on the market.

I once owned the base-spec 1.4 16v S. It cost me £9,995 and yet had everything – except maybe air conditioning – I wanted from a car, from performance to reliability, comfort, specification and looks. It was roomy, frugal, had sufficient power and excellent performance and the build quality and finish were top-rate.

The Cupra builds on this perfection, if that is possible. While the lower spec models give you everything you need, this range-topper adds everything you want, but didn't think you could afford.

Peruse the equipment list: climatronic air con system, sports suspension, six-speed gearbox, front and rear fog lamps, ABS, traction control, driver, front passenger and front side airbags, alarm, electronic immobiliser, ISOFIX child seat fittings, heated electrically adjusted door mirrors, tinted glass, chromed exhaust tail pipe, 16-inch alloys, body colour rear spoiler and door mirrors, pollen filter, leather steering wheel, electric front and rear windows, six CD autochanger, rear passenger heating vents…and so it goes on.

I thought I had a bargain with my base-spec model. The Cupra continues the theme, with the looks and the performance that complement the package to perfection.

The reach and rake adjustable steering wheel and the adjustable seats provide a most comfortable driving position, allied to a super smooth gear change and ultra responsive engine with a throaty roar, provided by SEAT's tinkering with the exhaust system. And on top of the boy racer buzz, there is the practicality of five seats, ample rear leg room and a cavernous boot. What you have is a family car, modestly hiding an exhilarating driving experience.

For tax watchers the benefit-in-kind liability for the Leon Cupra is, for a 22% taxpayer: £749.96 (2002/03); £818.14 (2003/04) and £886.31 (2004/05).

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