The new Cupra Leon VZ TCR references a touring championship and runs on the same underpinnings as the Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50, making it the company’s hottest Leon hatch in history. Sales are expected to start in late 2026.
Like the aforementioned Golf, the car runs on a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 325 PS (321 hp / 239 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers the torque to the front wheels.
Sprinting from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 5.5 seconds – just one-tenth of a second behind the Golf donor. The top speed is unannounced, but Cupra claims the car no longer stops at 250 km/h (155 mph). In all likelihood, it means it can attain 270 km/h (167 mph) like the Golf GTI Edition 50, or at least come close.
Elsewhere, the five-door Spanish hatch has Akebono brakes, adaptive shocks, a new exhaust system and lightweight wheels. It wears an advanced aero kit with a sizable rear spoiler and looks track-ready. The interior hasn’t been shown yet, but Cupra promises us bucket seats with four-point harnesses and a removable rear bench.
Those who like the vibe of the Leon VZ TCR but don’t need the extra performance will be able to opt for a styling package called simply VZ. The company plans to assemble 499 VZ TCR units and 1,500 Leons with the VZ package. The package will also be easier to obtain, with the company expecting to start shipping it in Q1 2026.
