April has provided me with a bit more variety than the usual staple commute between evo's two bases in London and Northamptonshire, so I've had a good selection of terrain over which to break-in my new charge. The SEAT's acceleration impressed me immediately, its 199lb ft of torque - which remains constant from 2100 to 5000rpm - delivered smoothly and accompanied by a turbo whistle reminiscent of the TT's. Some potent front-drive cars are marred by excessive torque-steer, yet foot-to-the-floor in each of its six gears, the Leon gets its 210bhp to the road with little fuss.

Driving the Cupra R across country is truly fun. It feels solid, really well balanced and fast. I love the way that it copes with quick directional changes, especially on switchback sections of B-road. The lowered 'R'-tuned suspension and low profile Pirellis make you feel like a driving hero, and while the ride feels rock-hard over sleeping policemen, it smooths out most road imperfections at speed. I haven't heard the '80s expression 'pocket rocket' for a long while but it seems to sum up the Leon. The grip provided by the P-Zero Rossos, mounted on beefy ten-spoke 18in alloys, is fabulous.

I even enjoyed cutting through the anonymous boulevards of Milton Keynes recently, attacking each roundabout with venom and grinning broadly as the SEAT sling-shotted me out in second gear, ready for the next one. I haven't yet felt the need to disengage the ESP traction control as it does such a good job of keeping me on the road and doesn't spoil the fun. That's one for the track, I think.

The 'R' styling gives the Leon a distinct presence. Its bold rear, broad front grille and side skirts send out a clear message, just the right side of 'boy racer'. I thought the big oval exhaust pipe was a bit too much at first but it's growing on me. The admiring looks the SEAT gets from groups of lads huddling around their 'Max'd up' motors confirms this car as a 911 for the Nova set.

Inside, I've got the standard seats, not the optional Recaros, but they are more than adequate. They're snug and supportive, displaying a bold 'R' chequered flag logo. I can easily find a comfortable driving position, and all the controls are well thought-out and logical to use. Even stationary, the Cupra feels like a lot of car for the money, with nice touches such as door mirrors that fold in at the touch of a button for parking, and warning lights on opened doors. Our car also has the optional sat-nav, which I'm not sure is worth the best part of two grand but is easy to use and packed with features.

Niggles are few after month one. I find the steering heavy and, oddly, the radio can't hold a signal for long. Also, the low front splitter catches on the underground car park ramp each time I leave the office; I keep forgetting and groan each time I hear the scrape. I'll tie a knot in my hanky.

So it's been a good start. The Cupra R appears to be a bit of a performance bargain and I'm enjoying it. I look forward to seeing if it keeps me smiling over the next six months.