Seat Leon Cupra driving simulator is not what you think it is

Racing simulators have come a long way in recent years. As computers have gotten quicker, developers have been able to create more sophisticated models that practically bring real-world driving to the screen. Volkswagen's Spanish brand, Seat, has harnessed a bit of this cutting-edge tech to give its fans an all-too-real taste of the new Leon Cupra a few weeks before the car begins deliveries in Europe.

The simulator combines hydraulic rams to replicate the hatchback's pitch and roll with sophisticated sound programming that even recreates the turbo's whistle during gearshifts as its occupants race around a waterfront shipping dock. The two unsuspecting guys in the car seem suitably amazed when they get out at the end, and we're betting you'll get a kick out of this video as well.

By way of refresher, this latest Leon Cupra packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder available with either 261 horsepower or 276 hp and a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It's quite a hot hatch, given that a version with the optional Performance Pack recently set a new front-wheel drive, production car record around the Nürburgring. The latest Seat won't be coming to these shores, of course, but you can scroll down to watch the short promo and let us know if you think this video simulator stunt is real or staged.