The CUPRA ATECA SUV launched in Ireland last month, promising to combine SUV style with sports car performance. So how does it feel on the road? Motoring journalist Dave Humphreys took one for a spin – and didn’t come away disappointed.

This review has been commissioned by CUPRA Ireland but all opinions are the independent insight of the motor journalist. 

THE CUPRA ATECA marks the introduction of SEAT’s long-established performance division, Cupra, as a stand-alone brand in Ireland.

But the Cupra Ateca also kicks off a new segment of higher performance SUVs that offer the same practical features albeit with a lot more oomph. Power comes in the form of a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine with a power output of 300hp.

Adding to that a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive leaves you with a roomy five-seat SUV that can sprint away from rest to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. That makes it quicker away from the line than a Honda Civic Type R and a Porsche Macan.

Quad exhaust

So you’re looking at some quite respectable levels of performance without sacrificing on the space. The boot comes in at 485 litres, which should be enough for most average buyers. An electrically operated tailgate that has a hand-free function is also a useful feature. While we’re talking about the back of the car, it’s worth mentioning the quad exhaust and purposeful looking diffuser.

Dave Humphreys Dave Humphreys

The Cupra has several unique differences to distinguish it including that new Cupra badge on its nose. To help cool that powerful engine the Cupra has enlarged openings in the front and the unique gloss black mesh design of the grille certainly adds a degree of menace to its appearance. Behind the eye-catching 19-inch black and copper alloy wheels are some uprated Brembo brakes that help to haul up the Cupra comfortably.

Harder cornering

On the inside of the Cupra, the sporty theme continues with Alcantara-clad sports seats up front that feature copper stitching and carbon-effect striping on the sides. The side bolsters support in the right areas and do an excellent job of holding you in place during harder cornering but retain enough padding to make longer drives comfortable.

Dave Humphreys Dave Humphreys

The same finish applies to the rear where passengers get generous amounts of head and legroom and parents of younger children can utilise the ISOFIX points on the two outer seats. 

You get a decent level of standard equipment with the Cupra that includes an eight-inch touchscreen display featuring Bluetooth connectivity and full smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Those with compatible handsets will appreciate the wireless charging pad in the storage area of the centre console that also helps to boost the device’s signal.

Rumble

The 10-inch digital instrument cluster looks the part and can be configured in several different ways according to your personal preference, displaying everything from driving data to the sat nav map.

Thumb the glowing ‘Engine Start’ button and the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine spools into life but quickly settles to a subtle yet purposeful rumble. In its default Normal setting, the Cupra isn’t overly loud and thankfully doesn’t produce any artificial-sounding engine notes.

Dave Humphreys Dave Humphreys

There is a total of six driving modes to choose from ranging from Off-Road and Snow to a more intense Cupra mode, which sharpens up the throttle response, steering and suspension through the adaptive dampers that form part of the Dynamic Chassis Control.

For the most part, the Cupra Ateca tackles the day-to-day driving with real ease. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts up through the gearbox smoothly and swiftly, utilising the engine’s torque rather than trying to run out each gear. Combine that with the suspension’s ability to soak up most of what’s thrown at it.

Crackles and pops

But the real reason you’ll be considering a Cupra Ateca is for that performance. So how does a high-riding SUV with 300hp perform? Quite well, actually. When you dial the chassis into its sportiest setting, the Cupra steps up its driver engagement. The ride does stiffen up helping to keep body roll in check through the bends. Taking the additional levels of grip that the all-wheel drive and Pirelli P Zeros provide means that the Cupra Ateca is genuinely a quick car from point to point.

Dave Humphreys Dave Humphreys

The star of the show is the engine which provides a broad powerband and flat torque curve, with 400Nm 2,000rpm right up to 5,200rpm. When you get it on an open stretch it surges forward at rates that would be impressive in a hot hatch nevermind a tall five-seat SUV. Lift off the throttle as you approach a bend and the crackles and pops from the four tailpipes on the overrun add to the experience.

It would be easy to be cynical about a car like the Cupra Ateca, but spending time behind the wheel to experience all it has to offer quickly dispels any preconceptions. If you’re keen on the idea of owning an SUV, but you still crave the performance of a smaller hot hatch, then the Cupra Ateca will be right up your street.

Price as tested: €58,732 (Starts at €49,990)
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol
Power: 300hp at 5,300-6,500rpm
Torque: 400Nm at 2,000-5,200rpm
Top speed: 247km/h
0-100km/h: 5.2 seconds

Inspired by the tracks, born for the streets: the new CUPRA ATECA is an SUV with the heart of a sports car. But also, a sports car that knows what elegance is. Sportiness meets sophistication – a symbol of understated power and balanced control. Configure yours now.