Key facts:
Model tested: Seat Leon Cupra R 2.0 TSI 6sp manual
On the road price: £25,205
Price range: £14,060-£25,205
Date tested: June 2010
Road tester: Stuart Milne

The new Seat Leon Cupra R is the most powerful car the company has ever built, packing a modified version of the turbocharged engine from the Audi S3. With 265bhp on tap plus 258lb/ft of torque, there's a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds and an unlimited 155mph top speed.

But don't think this is an old-school hot hatch, spinning the power away in a heady cloud of tyre smoke. Torque steer is largely absent, and Seat's XDS electronic differential improves grip and traction through the bends. Aluminium suspension components reduce unsprung weight, improving performance further.

The lightweight suspension pays dividends when it comes to ride comfort. Its firm, but soaks up bumps without unsettling the car, or the occupants.

The steering is dead around the centre, but once loaded up there's plenty of feedback. The big brakes, gripped by eye-catching red callipers do an excellent job of hauling in the speed, while the Pirelli P-Zero tyres provide ample grip.

Seat listened to comments from British hot hatch buyers when the Leon Cupra R was first shown at motor shows around Europe, and took on feedback that it didn't look different enough. UK buyers, therefore, are the only ones to get the large twin exhaust pipes - along the lines of those fitted to the Golf R - and a shiny black diffuser and large, black-edged rear wing.

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Other bits to set the Cupra R apart from lesser models are black door mirrors, 'R' badging and a set of 19-inch alloys which suit the Leon more than any other car/wheel combo from its rivals. Finished in bright Crono Yellow, our Cupra R test car is one of the most handsome hot hatches around.

For the £25,000 asking price, a great deal of kit is included such as rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic wipers and lights and dual-zone climate control come as standard.

While there are many hot hatches on the market, there are few which offer this much power at such a low price. It might not have the raw thrills of the Ford Focus RS; but it is £3,000 cheaper. It's also £3,500 less than the Audi S3 and the Volkswagen Scirocco R.

Only the Renault Megane Renaultsport offers a compelling alternative on price, and while it might have the dynamic edge, the Leon's engine has more flair and the discreet five-door configuration widens the appeal.

The Seat Leon Cupra R is a worthy champion for Seat's sporty cause. Its priced well, looks fantastic and is fun, fast and comfortable. And that is surely the essence of a great hot hatch.