The CUPRA Ateca is the first model to be released by the brand since it became a standalone carmaker, separate from SEAT.

With plenty of performance and practicality, it has become a key player in the go-faster SUV segment. It’s been given an update too, which only helps to sharpen the Ateca. Let’s take a look under the skin at what the CUPRA Ateca has to offer.

Technology and Interior

The update of the Ateca by CUPRA has helped to beef-up the levels of technology inside the car. There’s a customisable digital driver’s display (which replaces the traditional dials) and this can be configurable to relay a variety of different screens back to whoever is behind the wheel.

This is joined by a 9.25-inch infotainment screen, which as well as satellite navigation and media functions incorporates full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. The interior of the CUPRA takes the standard Ateca’s cabin and dusts it with a good helping of performance-influenced accessories. There’s contrast stitching throughout, while a carbon fibre-effect fabric is used on the seat bolsters. It’s a solidly built cabin, but it doesn’t detract from the high driving position which SUV buyers love.

Exterior & Performance

The exterior of the Ateca is still distinctly related to the regular model, but a series of changes have been made to give it a little more presence out on the road. One of the most notable additions is four large exhaust pipes at the back, which not only help the CUPRA to sound better but also give a clue to the car’s performance.

Around the front, the CUPRA badge is large and kept in pride of place, while the updated model brings redesigned front splitter inserts and a more intricate grille design, too.

The CUPRA uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, sending power to all four wheels through an automatic DSG gearbox. With close to 300bhp on tap, this is one quick car, and CUPRA claims that it’ll do 0-60mph in under five seconds. A healthy 400Nm of torque will ensure that the Ateca keeps pulling no matter which gear it’s in.

Plus, the added bonus of all-wheel-drive means that there’s traction even in poorer conditions, making the CUPRA Ateca well-suited to the UK.