PROS Wide range on offer, including a great diesel Straightforward interior design with top-notch tech Poised dynamics
CONS Pricier servicing than some rivals Third row is tight Rides a bit firmly
PROS Well-built cabin Slick infotainment system Roomy middle-row seats
CONS Alternatives have bigger boots… … and more exciting interiors More expensive than some seven-seaters
PROS Great chassis Strong engines Well-equipped
CONS Flaky CarPlay integration Changeable 2022 spec inclusions Hefty price increases
At first that may seem faintly ridiculous, but when you look at the Venn diagram of price, proportions and performance, the Ateca lives in a little world of its own. To get vaguely comparable speed and power from any other medium-sized SUV, you’re looking at spending around £50k+ on a Porsche Macan S or an Audi SQ5. But although it may be marooned in its own micro-sector, that doesn’t mean it has a free pass. A £40,000-ish Seat – sorry, Cupra – has a lot to prove, starting with how it drives
Pros Hot hatch performance with SUV styling and practicality
Cons £40k for a Seat with somewhat unconvincing branding
The Cupra Ateca SUV is a brilliant family car that’s fast and great to drive, but you’ll have to accept its gloomy interior and boy racer exterior complete with tuner-esque branding.
Pros Surprisingly nimble Fizzing performance Still practical
Cons Boy racer looks Dark, gloomy interior A VW Golf R costs less
