I’ve had a week so with my blue 300st and as I’m bored due to working from home I thought I’d share my thoughts on it. I’m not an enthusiast like most on here- though have owned 4 previous cupras the last one being a mk2, 12 years ago.
Exterior. For me it is gorgeous design, understated, a real wolf in sheeps clothing, kind of reminds me of the old Volvo T5’s. The wheels look amazing, I also actually like the copper badges in the flesh, the mystery blue probably not the best contrast though.
interior.
Top marks, really simple, well laid out, seats could be better and I would have defiantly got the lux given the choice. Only complaint is the dash is a horrible shiny plastic that reflects too much on the windscreen.
ICE.
Digital cockpit is fantastic, media and Apple play in particular have been glitchy as hell. The stereo is no better than average. for a car of this price is a huge disappointment.
Equipment.
The lack of a reversing camera, and keyless (haven’t used a key to start a car for 8 years) is frankly bizarre in a near £40k car. Other than that it’s everything you’d expect for the money.
Driving.
I’ve not driven a AWD drive for years and never one with a DSG. Jesus what a match they are. The grip and acceleration are almost super car territory. the steering response was the first thing that struck me, it is laser sharp, actually taken me a bit to get used to. The throttle response is as sharp as the steering, this combined with awd (and me seeing just how much grip there was) led to a mid corner lift off and the oversteer was unexpected (the amount). Will take a bit of getting used to and won’t be doing it again in a hurry. The driving modes are great apart from the exhaust note in cupra. It’s actually really comfortable and smooth when you want it to be and an animal when there’s no kids in the back, personally don’t think it’s as much fun as a RWD but a great compromise.
overall It’s everything anybody could want from a car, a jack of all trades, just need to adjust my driving style a bit to get the most of it. Shane about the stereo.