Jill and I saw the "model" of the new Ibiza Cupra R at the motorshow last year. As Jill will testify too, i was VERY excited about its release, as the model looked absolutely phenominal.
I have to say, im disappointed in the real life version. For starters its about 1/2 the width of the model projected, and the arches dont flair even a 1/4 of how the model suggested. Anyone got any pictures of the rear? There was supposed to be a pyramid brakelight built into a bloody great wing - i doubt that made it into production either.
That 1.8 20v T VAG engine is absolutely phenominal for tuning. On most of the various release forms of that engine, for as little as £400 (Chip/ECU remap) people are seeing figures go from 140-150bhp, to over 200, and from the high spec cars (210bhp Leon Cupra?) even more. Couple that with a full system, good induction/DV, and youve got yourself a flying machine.
With the influx of white-hot hatches being released (Focus RS, Fiesta Rallye, Alfa 147 GTA, Golf R32, *CTR* etc) I think manufacturers not in the race are crazy. Each of those cars mentioned is going to be mentally popular, and the other car manufacturers are going to be left behind.
