Driving the Spanish built Cupra Ateca, the Spanish-built brand, part of the
Volkswagen Group that was launched here late last year. The Ateca a mid-sized
all-wheel-drive SUV, more in the mould of a high riding five-door hatchback with a
real sports flavour. A 2.0-litre four-cylinder seven speed dual clutch automatic
with a very spirited performance. One model the Ateca VZx at $66,750 drive-away,
a top-spec SUV, the maker promising power and practicality in equal measure.
The performance, drivability and handling live up to this promise with six drive
modes, the sportier ones making the Ateca a very aggressive performer. Having
said that it is nearly the same size as the Cupra Formentor I raved about a few
weeks back and that would be my choice. Launched in 2018 the Ateca is perhaps
showing its age – while the newer Formentor has quickly become the brands
biggest seller. The Ateca interior to me looks a little dated also its touch screen
functionality and useability is frustrating and behind best practice. As a driver
though, the Ateca is a very exciting machine. The Cupra brand, with eye-catching
copper adornments rather than chrome and with an eye-catching logo, is really
making headway in a very competitive market. Warranty, five-years/unlimited km.