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

Four modern classic sports cars that cost a fraction of their modern equivalents
Cheap sports cars
Best cars

Four modern classic sports cars that cost a fraction of their modern equivalents

A new 911 is over £100,000, a new Lotus Evora just under, a new Vantage just over £160,000. Save a fortune and buy their modern classic ancestors
5 Feb 2026
Is Porsche really pulling the plug on the all-electric Boxster?
Porsche Cayman EV
News

Is Porsche really pulling the plug on the all-electric Boxster?

Reports by Bloomberg suggest the new CEO is considering ditching the all-electric Boxster and Cayman for hybrid power.
3 Feb 2026
Hot hatch icons take over the new issue of evo – car pictures of the week
'80s French hot hatches
Features

Hot hatch icons take over the new issue of evo – car pictures of the week

It’s a French revolution in the upcoming issue of evo, with iconic 80’s hot hatches and jewel-like Alpine A110 coach builds, plus a whole lot more
7 Feb 2026