Skip advert
Advertisement

300bhp SEAT Ateca Cupra spotted - new performance SUV pegged for 2017 launch

Images show quad exhausts and bigger brakes

A more performance orientated version of the recently launched SEAT Ateca has been spotted by Auto Express at the launch for a facelifted SEAT Leon.

Featuring quad exhaust tips and bigger Brembo brakes, the prototype is clearly the rumoured Ateca Cupra. Allegedly belonging to Matthias Rabe, SEAT's exec vice-president for R&D, this further adds to its potential as a production model.

The standard Ateca in standard guise is well put together and looks decent too, but it's not the most engaging thing to drive. Hopefully the Cupra will remedy this.

Advertisement - Article continues below

>Read our SEAT Ateca review here

While performance details are still unknown, chances are that the Ateca will use the same 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the Leon Cupra. Current talk that the Ateca Cupra could have in excess of 300bhp, making it hot-hatch quick.

At the moment, Ateca Cupra competitors include the pricier SQ5, range-topping petrol Tiguans and Alpina's XD3. Mercedes also has the GLC.

Really though there's not that much in terms of performance SUV competition at this price point, making the Ateca Cupra a bit of a no brainer for SEAT.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Best car tyres 2026 – evo tyre test
evo tyre test 2026
Features

Best car tyres 2026 – evo tyre test

What are the best road tyres for your hot hatch? We tested and ranked nine of them
18 Oct 2026
BMW M2 (F87, 2015 - 2022) review – flawed then but from £20k it’s now fantastic value
BMW M2 (F87)
In-depth reviews

BMW M2 (F87, 2015 - 2022) review – flawed then but from £20k it’s now fantastic value

The original BMW M2 was a muscular sports coupe and an entry point to the M range, but it had its flaws
20 Oct 2026
This mystery Audi Q5 is actually a Porsche Macan, and it has a V8
2028 Porsche Macan
News

This mystery Audi Q5 is actually a Porsche Macan, and it has a V8

Porsche has been caught testing the next combustion-powered Macan beneath the body of an Audi Q5, and it has one very exciting powertrain…
19 Oct 2026