The new CUPRA Leon is available including four different technologies: TSI (petrol), eTSI (mild hybrid), TDI (diesel) and a new generation of eHybrid (plug-in hybrid). The powertrain options go from 150PS to 333PS between the hatchback and Sportstourer variants.
TSI (petrol)
Conventional combustion power remains a core pillar of the new CUPRA Leon’s powertrain line-up, including new options. All engines benefit from turbocharged, direct injection with power outputs from 150PS (110kW) to 333PS (245kW) to deliver the high-performance vehicle’s dynamic ability.
The line-up includes four-cylinder 1.5-litre 150PS (110kW) engine linked to a manual 6-speed transmission and available in both the hatchback and Sportstourer.
Moving up the performance scale, the new CUPRA Leon hatchback offers a 2.0 litre unit, with 300PS (221kW). This front-wheel drive version uses a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission to translate the power to the wheels while an integrated front differential lock (VAQ) helps offer greater control in the vehicle’s power delivery. The system takes readings from numerous sources: steering angle, wheel speed and yaw, to provide reassurance in dynamic driving scenarios.
The new CUPRA Leon Sportstourer is given two unique engines of its own. A 2.0 litre TSI 204PS (150kW) unit with all-wheel technology (4Drive) and DSG dual-clutch transmission.
And the most powerful engine in the line-up – a 333PS (245kW) 2-litre direct-injection, turbocharged petrol engine, also linked to a 7-speed DSG gearbox, introducing a new drive mode with drivetrain calibrated for racetrack by CUPRA engineers and equipped with torque splitter technology and optional Akebono brakes. This makes it the most powerful CUPRA Leon ever.
Specifically developed for this engine is an exclusive CUPRA Mode, including a racetrack optimized pedal and gearbox calibration, high dynamic torque response due to open-throttle retention, a shift light indicator and the engine calibration developed by the Technical Centre in Martorell.
Housed on the rear axle, the system is electro-hydraulically controlled with two independent clutches and allow for independent torque control on each rear wheel. This means that it can shift power between rear left and rear right wheels during cornering giving the CUPRA Leon Sportstourer VZ even greater dexterity when driving becomes more focused.
The CUPRA Leon Sportstourer VZ’s chassis system allowed engineers to include a Drift Mode, to be used on a racetrack. In this mode, the ESC is in sport mode and using the torque splitter technology, full power can be directed to one rear wheel, helping push the car around a bend as if it was pirouetting.
And when maximum braking control is needed the CUPRA Leon Sportstourer VZ delivers thanks to its standard 18” brakes; it can also be equipped with optional brakes with six piston Akebono callipers (375mm x 36mm). Its reassurance amplified no matter what the requirements.
eTSI (mild hybrid)
The CUPRA Leon is available with a mild hybrid option (eTSI). This version allows both the 5-door and Sportstourer variants to provide even greater efficiency levels. The system, which is available with a new 1.5 litre 150PS (110kW) petrol unit, exclusively in combination with the DSG transmission, mates 48V mild-hybrid technology to the combustion engine, which not only adds the efficiency of electrification but also comfort.
The system uses a 48V starter-generator and 48V lithium-ion battery, and efficiency gains obtained, in part, because the system allows the CUPRA Leon to coast with the engine switched off during some driving scenarios, recover energy under braking and supporting the engine with some electric assistance. The system has been improved and the car now also ignites via the 48V system, making it even smoother (compared to the previous 12V system).
TDI (diesel)
Diesel is also part of the new CUPRA Leon’s powertrain line-up, an important version for some markets and customers. Meeting the requirements, the 2.0 litre TDI is linked to a 7-speed DSG gearbox and producing 150PS (110kW).
eHybrid (plug-in hybrid)
With the new generation of plug-in hybrid powertrain, CUPRA proves once again that electrification and performance are a perfect match.
The new CUPRA Leon – whether 5-door or Sportstourer variant - houses two next generation eHybrid powertrain options: 204PS (150kW) and 272PS (200kW).
Both are equipped with the new 1.5 TSI engine, an electric motor, and a larger battery pack that now offers 19.7kWh (net). It allows the new CUPRA Leon to deliver eco-conscious excitement and a pure electric range of more than 100km. The battery can now be fast charged at up to 50kW (DC charge) while on the road, or at home using a 11kW Wallbox (previously 3.6kW).
The CUPRA Leon VZ e-HYBRID (200kW/272PS) can be equipped with Brembo brakes. Four pistons Brembo calipers combine with bigger perforated disc brakes compared to standard options (370x32mm), offering increased braking performance.