Though Cupra might have once just been seen as the sporty division of Seat, since 2018 this brand has been going its own way, and is now a brand in its own right, though it still operates with close involvement to its partner brand.
But with Cupra now introducing new standalone cars and with more on the way, it’s a manufacturer that is continuing to grow. But what are the Cupra models already available, and what’s on the way? Let’s take a look.
Cupra Leon
Though the Leon might also be sold as a Seat, when Cupra gets its hands on this hatchback it gives it a healthier extra dose of performance and racier styling to go with it.
Retaining all the practicality of the regular Leon, this Cupra model is available with a great range of powertrain options – including punchy 242bhp and 296bhp petrol models, the latter being able to power the Leon from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. Cupra also offers a plug-in hybrid model, which brings a great combination of performance and efficiency thanks to a 35-mile electric range.
If you’re looking for something fast, fun and compact, the Cupra Leon is well worth considering.
Cupra Leon Estate
If you like the Leon, but just need something that’s just that bit roomier, you should take a look at the Estate model. Bringing a far bigger boot thanks to its elongated shape, it’s far more practical option, and perhaps even better looking too, depending on your standpoint.
The powertrain choice is also slightly different to the Hatch, with only the aforementioned plug-in hybrid and a powerful 306bhp 2.0-litre petrol available. The latter also comes with four-wheel-drive – it’s the only Leon to do so – and can manage 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds.
Cupra Formentor
Cupra’s first and currently only standalone model, the Formentor is a very important car for this Spanish brand, and is already proving popular despite having only been on sale for a few months. Though it’s based on the same platform as other Volkswagen Group models of a similar size, Cupra had greater freedom when it came to the car’s design, hence the Formentor’s sleek, almost coupe-like shape.
With generous equipment levels, a fun driving experience and wide range of petrol and plug-in hybrid options, it’s one of the best SUVs available at this end of the spectrum.
Cupra Ateca
The Ateca helped to kick off Cupra’s line-up, and while it might be based on a Seat still, its racier styling and strong performance really help to make it stand out from its more sensible siblings. Powered by a 296bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, the Ateca can sprint from 0-60mph in under five seconds.
Yet at the same size, the Ateca is an impressively practical choice, with plenty of passenger space and a large boot that makes it an ideal family car for those not wanting to sacrifice on a fun driving experience.
Cupra Born – coming soon
Perhaps Cupra’s most important car yet, the Born will arrive in showrooms at the start of 2022 as the brand’s first electric car. Underpinned by the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.3, the Born promises a very spacious interior, all the latest of technology and an electric range of up to 335 miles.
It also benefits from a raft of sporty tweaks that should make it more involving to drive than other sibling models, with pricing to be announced before the end of the year. Expect orders to open at a similar time.
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