Cupra Leon Launch Edition 2022: May presale release date in Australia of 25 examples of Spanish hot hatch

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The first Australian examples of the Cupra Leon hot hatch will land locally in May 2022 in a surprise drop ahead of a general release planned for July.

Just 25 examples of the Cupra Leon Launch Edition will be available for presale, allowing initiators and enthusiasts early access to the Spanish performance brand that slots into the Volkswagen Group locally alongside VW, Skoda and Audi.

Priced at $67,990 driveaway, the Leon Launch Edition includes desirable Brembo brakes and are painted in graphene grey – though a small number, perhaps five units, will be delivered in magnetic tech matte grey for a small additional fee.

Based on the high-spec Leon VZx trim, the Launch Edition is front-wheel drive and uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine to make 228kW of power and 400Nm of torque.

That’s considerably more than the 180kW/370Nm Volkswagen Golf GTI – because the top-tier Leon is actually a cousin of the Euro-spec Golf GTI Clubsport that we do not receive in Australia.

Inside, the Leon Launch Edition sports a petrol blue-themed interior with leather seats, including heating for the front pair and power adjustment for the driver. A Beats premium stereo is on the cards, as are quad exhaust tips and an additional body kit.

Later, in July, the majority of remaining Leon models will arrive in Australia, from the second-tier VZ (from $56,990 driveaway) to the $64,990 VZx.

Closer to the end of 2022, the entry-point Leon V will touch down locally, priced at $43,990 before on-road costs – driveaway deals will be announced later on for the V.

Cupra Leon 2022: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Leon V: $43,990 (driveaway pricing to be announced later)
• Leon VZ: $52,590 ($56,990 driveaway)
• Leon VZe plug-in hybrid: $59,990 (driveaway pricing varies by location)
• Leon VZx: $60,990 ($64,990 driveaway)
• Leon Launch Edition: $67,990 driveaway