SPORTING a low-slung SEAT with the letters FR emblazoned on its rump can mean only one thing - you're a hot hatch fan.

Car enthusiasts need no reminding that FR stands for Formula Racing and in the case of the Spanish company's Leon line-up it has almost become a range within a range.

And it's a sub division that has taken on extra appeal in recent months thanks to an expansion in every direction.

Once available only with high powered petrol or diesel engines, the range has been broadened with a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine producing a healthy 125bhp and a 140bhp 2.0-litre oil-burner.

While the new lower powered units make the FR stable more accessible to buyers whose choices may be restricted by engine power, cost or insurance, the arrival of a new FR + derivative at the top end is of equal significance.

Make no mistake, this is a serious hot hatch contender. While the performance flagship Leon king remains the Cupra R - the most powerful road-going model yet produced by SEAT - the FR + doesn't lag far behind.

Both cars are powered by the same 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, yet the Cupra is a mere 0.7 of a second quicker from 0-62mph and quaffs more fuel. For the privilege you have to splash out an extra £4,055.

So for the thrill seekers the FR + certainly makes sense, as well as looking every inch the mean machine, especially when dressed in black.

A deep air-dam at the front, a rear spoiler and 18-inch gloss black alloys along with a slippery silhouette set the scene for a car that could be mistaken for a coupe due to its concealed rear door handles.

But the Leon actually delivers five-door hatchback practicality with the space to accommodate three back seat passengers and still fit a fair bit in the 341-litre boot.

On the road the FR + is best described as satisfying. Its steering is well weighted, handling precise and acceleration instant - one of those cars you drive home and then spend the next hour making up excuses to head back out again.

You feel good in the body-hugging sports seats with the FR badge embossed on the front seat backrests and adorning the gearknob while a flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel and drilled alloy pedals add to the effect.

Techno features are there too in the shape of SEAT's Media System 2.2 which includes sat-nav with a five-inch colour touchscreen, DAB radio, Bluetooth audio streaming and SD card slot, bi-xenon headlights and front parking sensors.

An indication of just how popular the FR badge has become can be gauged by the fact that one in four Leon models sold are wearing it - the FR + can only strengthen it further.