The Cupra Ateca will always be remembered as one of this Spanish brand’s most important cars, not least because it was the firm’s first model since it officially split from Seat.
Launched in 2018, it proved that just because you needed something practical as a family car, you didn’t have to sacrifice on driving enjoyment or performance. Cupra has also recently updated it to make it even more appealing. Here are five things you need to know about it…
It’s hugely powerful
Underpinning the Cupra Ateca is a very similar engine to the one you find in superb hot hatches like the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3. It gets this sporty SUV off to a great start, that’s for sure.
The engine itself is a turbocharged 2.0-litre unit that kicks out 296bhp and 400Nm of torque, which allows for some seriously impressive performance figures. The sprint from 0-60mph takes as little as 4.7 seconds, while – where permitting – the Ateca can reach a top speed of 155mph.
Good fun to drive
Given the standard Seat Ateca that Cupra uses as its basis is already a superb crossover to drive, it’s unsurprising that this Spanish performance brand only makes this model even more exciting behind the wheel.
As is to be expected, it’s not quite so sharp as a hot hatch, but the Ateca still handles impressively well for an SUV of this size, with its lower and stiffer suspension really helping it feel flat through the corners, and really rather entertaining.
Very practical
But Cupra hasn’t forgotten about the need for a crossover – whether it’s a performance model or not – to be practical, and if you’re looking at the Ateca as a family car, it certainly won’t leave you disappointed.
It’s 485-litre boot is a fantastic size, while there’s a very generous amount of rear space, even for taller passengers. It’s actually roomier inside than sibling models like the Volkswagen T-Roc R, too.
Loads of equipment for your money
Prices for the Cupra Ateca start from a snippet under £40,000, and though that might seem quite pricey, it’s worth noting that you get a huge amount of car for the money.
Standard equipment highlights on the VZ1 includes a 360-degree camera system, bucket seats, 19-inch alloy wheels and digital dials to name just a few features. If you make the step up to the VZ2, those bucket seats are then trimmed in blue leather, while also adding heated and electric front seats and a range of driver assistance technology. Right at the top of the range, the VZ3 offers 19-inch copper alloy wheels, a sports steering wheel and Brembo brakes that offer more stopping power.
Regardless of which trim suits you best, though, you won’t feel short-changed.
Fresher styling as part of recent update
Given the Cupra Ateca only arrived in showrooms at the end of 2018, it wasn’t exactly looking dated. That hasn’t stopped Cupra from giving it a fresher design to keep it in-line with the brand’s other models, though.
It arguably looks even sportier with its aggressive bodykit and sharp lines, while coming with new alloy wheel designs and LED lighting to give it even greater road presence.
Enquire on a new Cupra Ateca