SEAT hints at new Nurburgring lap record

Repeated references to the Nurburgring during the press conference at the launch of the new SEAT Leon Cupra strongly suggest that the 280hp hot hatch has broken the front-wheel drive lap record. SEAT is waiting until the 2014 Geneva Motor Show before saying any more, but has already hinted that its new Leon Cupra is significantly faster than the current Renaultsport Megane record holder. On Bing: see pictures of the new SEAT Leon Cupra at the Nurburgring SEAT Leon Cupra and Cupra 280 review (2014 onwards) To set a new front-wheel drive production car record on the Nordschleife, the SEAT Leon Cupra would have to lap the 13-mile circuit – actually a public toll road that now plays a vital part in new car development – in less than 8 minutes and 7.97 seconds.

Alluring Alfa Romeo falls far short of its promise

Few names can match the allure of Alfa Romeo. The sporty Italian brand is all about swooping lines, intoxicating engine noise, nimble road manners and the sexiest grille around. Alfa Romeo should be a bright Italian alternative to, say, Audi that stands out from the silver-gray herd of German luxury machines.

2013 Ford Fiesta ST: Price from £16,995

The 2013 Ford Fiesta ST will cost from £16,995 when it arrives in Ford’s UK showrooms in March, with an extra £1,000 buying the Fiesta ST2. But now, with the Fiesta ST about to arrive as a three door in UK showrooms (the 5 door Fiesta ST will be sold in the US), Ford has come up with prices and specs for their hot Fiesta. The regular Fiesta ST will get some butch bumpers, a set of 17″ alloys, suspension lowered by 15mm, tinted glass, Recaro seats, DAB and AirCon, and if you want to spoil yourself you can opt for the Fiesta ST2 which adds in LED headlights, keyless start, part leather seats and climate.