SEAT Leon Cupra R (2002 - 2005) 1.8 20V 5d (2003/03) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
This car says that I like power and practicality. Superb all round hot hatch.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
You do get a lot of looks as you drive along so not a car for the shy or timid. Everyone I know loves the car and the one word that keeps popping up is monster. My Dad test drove an Audi TT with the same engine and said the power delivery and handling on mine were miles better. Nuff said.
Would you buy this car again and why?
If I were to buy a Cupra R again then I would definately go for the mark 1 version. The new Leon looks too much like a mini MPV for my liking. I won't buy another one though as I want something even quicker next time.
What are you likely to buy next?
Maybe an Impreza or an Evo. I like the Audi RS4 but don't think I could raise the funds for it even if I sold the wife.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£11,000
When did you buy the car?
April 2006
Did you get a good deal and why?
Bought the car for 11K with 25000 on the clock. Other dealerships wanted 13k at least for same sort of condition so yes you could say I got a good deal.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
My uncle had one and I was hooked
What was the dealer like?
The dealership was very helpful when I was purchasing the car but once I had driven it off the forecourt then they are about as much use as a chocolate tea pot.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Only one word to describe it, immense. This car has got so much power going to the front wheels that if you want to thrash it then 1st gear should be avoided as the traction system will just kick in consatntly. Put it this way it is quite easy to wheel spin in 3rd gear, need I say more.
What's it like to park?
As long as you can reverse into spaces then its a doddle. The Cupra R has a lower front spoiler that makes it sit crazy low but means speed humps and front faced parking are a bit of a problem. I have been told that it is a cosmetic feature to the car so I took mine off.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
So far the only thing apart from the usual stuff has been a rattly noise in the dashboard. Might have to change a wheel bearing soon but it might just be the noise from the low profile tyres. Getting it checked out in the next couple of days.
What's most practical about your car?
Its a very quick hot hatch that has five doors and a good sized boot. Makes an excellent family car.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The stereo. For a standard factory fitted bit of kit it pumps out the sounds like you will not believe. Standard speakers are components in both front and rear. Also the button to turn the traction control off.
