Rumours are circulating that Seat are planning to announce a 265bhp version of the Leon Cupra at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

By borrowing the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine from the new Volkswagen Scirocco R, the more powerful hatch would probably be badged as a Leon Cupra R to distinguish it from the standard Cupra. As well as a healthy power boost, it could also receive the seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox, new AP Racing brakes, re-tuned suspension and even racing-style bucket seats on the inside.

Should the Leon Cupra R make it into production it is likely to give the Volkswagen Golf R a tough fight in the showrooms. The current Leon Cupra is more powerful and a few hundred quid cheaper than the Golf GTI, and there’s no reason to expect that to be any different when the two super hatches go on sale next year.