Cupra Ateca Review 2023

More affordable than most performance SUVs. A serious turn of speed. Practical interior. Plenty of standard equipment.

Running costs are high compared to SEAT Ateca. Interior is starting to look dated. Not the most engaging hot SUV to drive.

You might imagine the Cupra Ateca is simply a SEAT Ateca with fancy copper trim. However, this performance SUV has the ability to back up its ‘tribal tattoo’ badges. Now nearing the end of its life, it faces close competition from the Volkswagen T-Roc R and Cupra Formentor .

When SEAT made the decision to turn Cupra into a separate performance brand, the Cupra Ateca SUV was the first car to gain the distinctive copper badges. Now, with a roster of other Cupra options available, the Ateca is the oldest model on sale.

Despite the relative age of the Cupra Ateca (the SEAT version was first launched in 2016), this hot model still has a lot going for it. The base Ateca is a popular family SUV, offering a keen driving experience and a practical interior.

Proving the power for the Cupra Ateca is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. There are no other alternatives, and the lack of a plug-in hybrid demonstrates the Ateca's age again. However, there will likely be few complaints about the 300PS and 400Nm of torque offered by the 2.0 TSI motor.

Combining this engine with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission results in serious performance. The Cupra Ateca dusts off the 0-62mph sprint in 4.9 seconds, and can reach a limited top speed of 155mph. For comparison, a Porsche Macan S takes 4.8 seconds to hit 62mph.

With Dynamic Chassis Control adaptive suspension, the Cupra Ateca handles with surprising agility for an SUV. Still, there is only so much that can be done about a high centre of gravity. Hot hatchbacks will ultimately be quicker on the open road, and the Cupra Ateca lacks the highest level of driver engagement.

At this point, it is worth remembering that we are talking about a family SUV, rather than a dedicated sports car. The Cupra Ateca has the ability to seat five people in comfort, with a useful boot and plenty of extra storage cubbies throughout the cabin.

Cupra has been generous with the Ateca's level of standard equipment, which goes some way towards justifying a price tag that has crept slowly upwards. Satellite navigation, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control and a top-view camera are all included.

This is housed inside a cabin that feels solidly made, but is related to the SEAT Leon first launched in 2012. At least there are still physical buttons used inside the Ateca for functions such as the climate control air-con, unlike in some more modern alternatives.

The biggest challenge for the Ateca now comes from inside the Cupra stable. Newer, sharper looking and with a more modern interior, the Cupra Formentor VZ3 has a lot to recommend it. Boot space is only a touch smaller, although the Formentor is more expensive to buy.

Although the Ateca is entering its twilight years, it does still offer enthusiasts a practical performance SUV. It's a lot more fun than a regular SEAT Ateca, but price rises and newer rivals do make it harder to justify now.

Full specifications

Interior space is likely to be the main attraction for buyers opting for the Cupra Ateca over an equivalent Leon hatchback. The boot is able to accommodate 485 litres of luggage with the back seats in place. It is worth noting that the cheaper Cupra Leon Estate boasts a cargo capacity of 620 litres, though.

Room for passengers in the front of the Cupra Ateca is generous, with the SUV body delivering plenty of headroom. Legroom is generous, too. It is a similar story in the back, with the Cupra Ateca's width making it possible to fit three adults across the rear bench.

The Cupra Ateca's standard bucket front seats, which have integrated headrests, make the rear of the cabin seem more claustrophobic. This is the price your passengers have to pay for those in the front being held in place securely if and when the driver starts to up the pace.

Extra storage can be found in the front centre armrest, with the front seats also featuring storage pockets. The rear armrest doubles as a ski hatch with access to the boot, while models in VZ2 trim upwards benefit from a powered tailgate.

Other than the copper-coloured Cupra logo on the steering wheel, there is very little to distinguish this hot Cupra Ateca from a normal SEAT version. The high-backed bucket seats do lift the cabin, but it is not the sportiest or most exciting SUV inside.

The Cupra Ateca's cabin is based upon that found in the previous-generation SEAT Leon, which dates right back to 2012. Compared with newer rivals, and indeed the Cupra Formentor, it is starting to look its age. At least most of the materials used are very solid, and the Cupra Ateca feels built to cope with the demands of family life.

Following a facelift in 2020, all Cupra Atecas gained an upgraded infotainment system. For the Cupra, this means the combination of a 9.2-inch multimedia touchscreen and a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit driver's display.

Unlike many newer Volkswagen Group infotainment systems, the Cupra Ateca's setup still incorporates physical buttons for functions such as the climate control. It also means the touchscreen is neatly integrated into the dashboard, rather than perched atop it like an abandoned iPad. Although it is an older design, the touchscreen's graphics look sharp, and there should be no major difficulties with using it.

Satellite navigation is standard on all trim levels, along with DAB radio and smartphone connectivity. Wireless smartphone charging is also included, as is wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. There are two USB-C ports in the front, with a further two available for rear-seat passengers.

Supporting the touchscreen is the impressive digital dashboard, which offers a number of customisable views. The steering wheel-mounted controls can be used to cycle through the various options, and the display helps to lift what would otherwise be an underwhelming cabin.

Which car seat will suit you?

The passage of time has not been kind to Cupra Ateca prices, with even the cheapest VZ1 version now costing close to £43,000. Moving up to VZ2 trim takes the price to more than £45,500, while the range-topping VZ3 requires a substantial £48,500 at the time of writing. That feels a lot for an ageing model based on a SEAT SUV.

Even so, the Cupra Ateca does undercut some rival performance SUVs. A Volkswagen T-Roc R costs more than £43,500 in basic form, with the smaller Audi SQ2 upwards of £44,000. Having been around for some time, the Cupra Ateca is likely to attract discounts on both nearly-new and pre-registered models.

A high-performance SUV is never going to be the cheapest vehicle to run, but the Cupra Ateca is more affordable than most.

According to the official WLTP fuel economy tests, the 2.0 TSI engine is capable of averaging between 29.7mpg and 31.7mpg. That may look unimpressive on paper, but the Ateca's real-world economy will be dictated more by how heavy you get with the throttle pedal. Longer motorway runs should see the fuel economy comfortably above the 30mpg mark.

With CO2 emissions of 202g/km, the Cupra Ateca does find itself placed into a high bracket when it comes to vehicle excise duty (VED, or road tax). With all starting prices now above £40,000, the Cupra also incurs the additional ‘expensive car’ supplement for the first five years of renewal. As a result, all versions are hit with a first-year VED charge of £1565.

Without a hybrid version, company car drivers are likely to give the Cupra Ateca a swerve. Benefit-in-kind (BiK) tax values of 37 percent would see a 20 percent income tax rate payer faced with payments of £253 a month.

Given the performance on offer, insurance costs should be on par with a hot hatchback. The VZ1 model is placed in insurance group 30, with the higher spec VZ2 in group 31 and the VZ3 in group 32.

All new Cupra models come with a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty as standard. This can be extended to four years/75,000 miles for £275, or five years/90,000-miles for £495 when the car is purchased new. Cupra also offers a range of servicing packages, designed to make maintenance costs more manageable.

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For all the sporting intent behind the Cupra Ateca, there is only so much that can be done to fight the laws of physics. A higher centre of gravity means it will never be able to handle as well as a lower-riding hot hatch or fast estate.

This is not to say Cupra hasn't tried. The steering is accurate, although not full of feel, and it can be hustled along a winding road faster than you might expect.

Dynamic Chassis Control adaptive suspension is standard on all grades, offering the choice between multiple damper settings. Left in Normal mode, the Cupra Ateca feels surprisingly compliant on rougher roads, even with 19-inch alloy wheels. Switching to Cupra mode makes for a much firmer ride that may upset your passengers.

Bigger Brembo brakes are standard on the VZ3 model, and optional on the other two trim levels. They are hugely effective in repeatedly stopping the Ateca from high speeds.

Taking the engine from one of the Volkswagen Group's most successful hot hatchbacks and slotting it into a compact SUV has fairly predictable results. The Cupra Ateca is seriously quick.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine powering the Cupra Ateca has seen service in many different vehicles, including the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3. Here, it produces a more-than-respectable 300PS, along with a substantial 400Nm of torque.

All this allows for a rapid 0-62mph sprint of just 4.9 seconds, with top speed limited to 155mph. That puts the Cupra Ateca in a similar performance realm to dedicated hot hatchbacks, with its strong torque making for effective real-world ability.

Standard across the Cupra Ateca range is a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. It shifts rapidly enough, but the kickdown effect can feel overly vicious when Sport or Cupra mode is engaged. These modes also cause the transmission to cling onto gears for longer, so expect the fuel economy to drop if you use them for simple commuter runs.

Aiding the Cupra Ateca's performance is all-wheel drive, combined with an electronic limited-slip differential. The Ateca is essentially a front-wheel-drive SUV the majority of the time, only diverting torque to the rear axle when needed. This can help with traction when pulling away, and adds an extra layer of confidence in bad weather.

There might be a quad-tailpipe exhaust system at the back, but it does not result in an overly boisterous soundtrack. Selecting Cupra mode amplifies the noise, adding some pops and crackles, but not enough to upset the neighbours.

The Cupra Ateca has not been subjected to crash testing by Euro NCAP. However, the SEAT Ateca was evaluated by the safety organisation in 2016. Back then, it was awarded the maximum five-star rating, although it is important to note that the tests have become more stringent since.

All Cupra Atecas come with a comprehensive suite of airbags, including one for the driver's knees, along with Isofix child car seat attachments on the outer rear seats. Front assist with autonomous emergency braking is standard, as is a fatigue recognition system. VZ2 and VZ3 models gain extra safety equipment, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Being based upon the regular SEAT Ateca means the Cupra version offers decent towing capability. Hauling a trailer or caravan will mean heavy fuel consumption, though.

All versions of the Cupra Ateca are able to pull braked trailers of up to 2100kg. This matches the top diesel-powered SEAT Ateca version.

Standard equipment across the Cupra Ateca range is generous, starting with entry-level VZ1 trim. This includes LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, electrically folding side mirrors and black roof rails.

Parking assist, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and a top-view camera are all fitted. Dynamic Chassis Control, a drive mode selector and an electronic differential lock are other key features.

On the inside, the Cupra Ateca VZ1 benefits from sports seats in Dinamica upholstery, a heated and leather-clad sports steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Illuminated side sills, ambient LED lighting, wireless phone charging and keyless entry are included, too.

Cupra fits the Ateca with a Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard, along with a 9.2-inch multimedia touchscreen. This boasts satellite navigation, DAB radio and voice commands, plus there are four USB-C ports throughout the cabin.

Standard safety equipment includes front assist with autonomous emergency braking, hill-hold assist, and driver tiredness monitoring.

Moving up to VZ2 spec brings black leather upholstery to the inside of the Cupra Ateca. The front seats are heated, while the driver's seat is electrically adjustable with a memory function. An electrically opening tailgate is added for good measure, too.

A safety package is part of the VZ2 trim, with Adaptive Cruise Control that boasts a speed limiter function. Lane-keeping assist offers semi-autonomous driving capability, allowing the Ateca to come to a stop automatically in an emergency situation. Traffic sign recognition and front assist with automatic emergency braking are other notable features.

The range-topping VZ3 brings only minor changes to the Cupra Ateca, but ones that help it stand out. A set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a bold copper finish are the most obvious addition. Behind these are a set of Brembo performance brakes with copper-painted callipers.

Inside the Ateca VZ3 is a Cupra Supersports steering wheel. This has additional ‘satellite’ buttons, allowing Cupra mode to be engaged more quickly.

Tthe first model to be launched under the new brand, the Cupra Ateca is priced at just £35,900.

The Cupra Ateca's 2.0 TSI engine delivers 300PS and 400NM of torque. This engine comes with a powerful sound, and is equipped with a newly developed DQ381 7-speed DSG gearbox that has been developed to offer sportier gearbox feel with faster, smoother and more precise changes.

The CUPRA Ateca comes with the 4Drive traction system which analyses road conditions in real time, including the speed of the car, speed of each wheel, the steering wheel position, and the driving style or mode to quickly and progressively deliver power at each moment to the necessary wheels.

On the outside it has black brake callipers, a sporty rear bumper, a copper CUPRA logo on the boot, four exhaust pipes on the edge of the rear diffuser and 19-inch diamond cut alloy wheels.

There are six exterior body colours available: Energy Blue, Velvet Red, Brilliant Silver, Rodium Grey, Magic Black and Nevada White.

Inside, the black Alcantara seats also feature copper stitching and an embossed logo, and are complemented by Alcantara door panels. The pedals are finished in aluminium and the climate control air vent frames and the central console are finished in gloss black.

The standard equipment in the CUPRA Ateca is oriented towards three basic principles: technology, design and safety. That is why systems such as the keyless entry and start system, wireless charger, 8-inch touchscreen navigation system plus, dynamic chassis control and park assist all come as standard.

The CUPRA Ateca is priced at £35,900 OTR in the UK with standard specification highlights including:

For an extra £1,930 OTR (£37,830 OTR), CUPRA Ateca Comfort & Sound receives:

Alternatively, CUPRA Ateca Design is also available at a premium of £3,345 OTR (£39,245 OTR) with:

CUPRA Ateca can also be specified with all features from both Comfort & Sound and Design, at a price of £41,175.

Other options available are:

CO2(g/km)

VED Yr 1

MPG

BiK

Ins.Group

P11D

RRP

CUPRA Ateca

168

£515

38.2

34%

33E

£35,330

£35,900

CUPRA AtecaComfort & Sound

168

£515

38.2

34%

TBC

£37,260

£37,830

CUPRA AtecaDesign

168

£515

38.2

34%

TBC

£38,675

£39,245

CUPRA AtecaComfort & Sound, Design

168

£515

38.2

34%

TBC

£40,605

£41,175

Due to go on sale in limited numbers later this year, the Cupra Ateca Special Edition is powered by the same 300PS 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the standard Cupra Ateca.

Newly designed and exclusive 20-inch copper alloy wheels house the standard Brembo brakes. Copper Carbon Fibre elements bring a new look to the door mirrors and rear spoiler – which provides an increased down force effect. Enhancements also extend to the introduction of the Akrapoviç exhaust system, which, in addition to lowering the weight of the vehicle by around 7kg, adds a more exclusive sound experience to the high-performance SUV.

Inside, the Cupra Ateca Special Edition gets exclusive Petrol Blue Alcantara covering the front bucket sports seats, rear seats and door panels.

Limited to 100 units in the UK, the Cupra Ateca Limited Edition is available in Rhodium Grey – £42,120 (OTR) and exclusive Graphene Grey with Akrapovic Exhaust System – £45,160 (OTR).

Although no power upgrade is quoted, Cupra is claiming a 4.9 second 0-62mph time - shaving 0.3 seconds off the standard model.

Available on 20 of the UK models, the titanium Akrapovic exhaust system saves 7kg in overall weight to offer the ultimate in sophisticated performance, says Cupra, as well as a more visceral aural experience.

Further expanding the performance envelope, an ABT Sportsline power upgrade is available from UK retailers, pushing the power and torque to 350PS and 440Nm, respectively.

The Cupra Ateca Limited Edition exterior features a host of styling cues including the newly-designed 20-inch copper alloy wheels, a unique copper thread carbon fibre roof spoiler that enhances aerodynamic performance, as well as copper thread mirror covers and copper Cupra lettering.

The large wheels also allow for the fitment of standard 18-inch Brembo brakes which enhance the stopping power.

Inside, the vehicle's exclusive new colour is complimented with the combination of black frames (around the dashboard and infotainment screen), copper carbon fibre interior mouldings and exclusive Petrol Blue Alcantara bucket heated sport seats.

The Cupra Ateca receives similar updates to the standard SEAT Ateca. Highlights include a new grille and sharper headlights, while the interior gets a revised steering wheel with new drive mode buttons. There's a new 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while a digital instrument cluster is standard.

While power from the 2.0-litre petrol engine remains at 300PS, it's been tweaked so will now cover 0-62mph faster than the pre-facelift model. It'll now reach 62mph in 4.9 seconds.

Updated Cupra Ateca is on sale now with prices starting from £39,050. With a 300PS 2.0-litre petrol engine and four-wheel drive, the Cupra Ateca can cover 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and comes with 19-inch black alloy wheels, 12-inch Digital Cockpit and the 9.2-inch Navigation System Plus.