• “The CUPRA Leon VZ has exactly the right specifications in terms of power, chassis, driving dynamics and design to serve as the basis for a racing model like the CUPRA Leon VZ TCR” says Xavi Serra, Global Director of CUPRA Racing
• Both models are equipped with the same two-litre EA888 engine that delivers 340 hp on the racetrack
• The CUPRA Leon VZ TCR faces a challenging season as it makes its way to the United States to compete in one of the most prestigious racing series, the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge

Seeing them drive head-to-head for the first time at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit in Montmeló makes it evident that CUPRA’s racing spirit isn’t just a statement of intent. “The CUPRA Leon VZ has exactly the right specifications in terms of power, chassis, driving dynamics and, of course, design to serve as the basis for a racing model like the CUPRA Leon VZ TCR” says Xavi Serra, Global Director of CUPRA Racing, who explains the connection between two models that share the same DNA.

A common impulse. One of the components that the racing team responsible for the development of the competition model is most proud of is its engine, and both cars are equipped with the same one. “We fitted the CUPRA Leon VZ TCR with the two-litre EA888 engine, the same one that powers the production model. We didn’t open it or modify it in any way. The only difference is that we achieve 340 hp in the TCR by adjusting some parameters in the engine control unit software, compared to 333 hp in the road model. This gives our customers great confidence both on and off the track” says Xavi.

New design language. Design is also a link between the models, as both are in line with the evolution of the brand’s new design language. In the racing car, the new CUPRA look is present in the distinctive three-triangle light signature and the entire exterior design, which has been adapted solely to the needs of racing. “The design of the production model is already well suited for a racing car because it’s extremely sporty. The main differences are basically structural. The exterior dimensions of the TCR are wider and longer. We also lowered its height, but we used the same chassis as the road car” says CUPRA Racing’s Global Director. The interior, on the other hand, is completely different, as they have to reduce the weight by eliminating unnecessary elements such as the seats, except for the driver’s, as well as adding all the safety elements needed to comply with the regulations of the International Federation.

Sportiness on the track and on the road. Equipped with the same engine and chassis and featuring the same design basis, what remains to be seen is whether they have a comparable driving feel. “Both cars share so many elements, such as the steering rack, front and rear axles... that the driving dynamics are very similar. Then there are adjustments to get more performance on the track, but the concepts are foundationally the same” Xavi adds. For example, the CUPRA Leon VZ Sportstourer features the Torque Splitter system that works with two independent electro-hydraulically controlled clutches, giving it greater agility when conditions become demanding.

Built to claim the top spots. Last season the CUPRA Leon VZ TCR helped its teams win a variety of championships and in 2025 it’s poised for more success, making its debut at the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and TCR China Touring Car Championship. The insights gained from racing as well as during the development of the production model are two-way, “It’s a shared development; we provide each other with mutual feedback. This way we get the best of both worlds,” concludes Xavi Serra.