SEAT chose the British International Motor Show to launch the first in a new series of high-performance variants in its range. Developed by SEAT Sport, the Ibiza Cupra R uses the 1.8-litre 20V Turbo engine developing 180bhp - eclipsing the Renault Clio Sport's 172bhp - resulting in a 0-62mph time of 7.2 seconds and a top speed in excess of 140mph.

The car will lead to Cupra R variants in limited numbers across the SEAT range, but the Ibiza Cupra R is the fastest accelerating SEAT to date, and its aim is to be the fastest in its class.

Vicente Aguilera, president of SEAT Sport, said: 'This is the first step of a new strategy for high-performance SEAT products in every segment. We don't want to make them high volume - we don't have the facilities. We want to offer high performance with high value. We want to satisfy customers who appreciate the sporty character of the cars.'

Aguilera says it has been challenging to create an image for SEAT within the Volkswagen Group, but has succeeded with its strategy of making it VW's sporty brand: 'We focus our attention on the type of cars we want to build. It is very clear in our minds that we will offer performance cars in every segment. Sporty people will find what they want in SEAT.'

The Ibiza Cupra R will go on sale in the UK in the new year and its price will be announced closer to its launch.