BASED On the World Touring Car champion model, the SEAT Leon Cupra R is fast, furious, very loud and crammed with appeal for anyone who craves driving performance in its purest form.

With a powerful two-litre turbo petrol engine producing 265ps this car is definitely not for the faint-hearted - and it won't win you any popularity contest with your neighbours either.

That's because the engine ticks over with a gentle rumble but with the slightest pressure on the accelerator pedal it bursts into a full roar.

The Leon Cupra R looks every part the sports hatchback with its sleek lines, rear spoiler, tinted windows, 19-inch white alloys with red callipers, twin central tailpipes, rear door handles flush to the bodywork and smart light clusters.

And that racing theme continues within the car too.

There is a leather sports steering wheel, Cupra R bucket sports seats in black leather with white stitching and drilled aluminium pedals.

And there's a host of top notch features and on-board technology, including dual-zone air con, a tilt and slide sunroof, rear parking sensors, cruise control, a radio/CD with eight speakers, electric windows, rain and light sensors and much more.

But in all honesty, the real appeal of this car is its performance. It is guaranteed to turn heads as it ambles calmly alongside slow moving traffic - mainly due to the engine's noise.

Then out on the faster roads and country lanes, the Leon Cupra R bursts into life like a wild animal that's been unleashed.

The engine delivers awesome power and acceleration through the six-speed manual transmission is rapid.

Road-holding is exceptional even in wet driving conditions and although you tend to feel every dip and bump it almost adds to the all-round appeal.

Back seat passengers have plenty of leg room and there is a generously-sized boot to accommodate luggage requirements.

My only real gripe would be the car's poor turning lock. Just parking in an average space at a supermarket is too much of a challenge and takes two or three adjustments even with a wide approach.

The car has a comprehensive list of safety specifications such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability programme, emergency brake assist, numerous airbags and even a tyre pressure monitor.