Cupra Ateca V to become brand's most affordable SUV

Spanish brand Cupra will add a new Ateca variant later this year to become its most affordable SUV.

The Ateca V, planned for the third quarter of 2024, will sit below the $63,490 VZx performance version (main image) that has hitherto been the only spec offered for the small SUV.

There's potential for the Ateca V to be priced below $50,000 considering Cupra's cheapest SUV is currently the $51,990 Formentor V.

The V would be expected to boost Ateca sales, which are the smallest of the four Cupra models currently offered in Australia.

Cupra Australia has chosen the most powerful option of two new engines that were added to Europe's Ateca line-up in the second half of 2023.

The 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine for the V produces 140kW compared with the VZx's 221kW and is teamed with a seven-speed DSG auto and all-wheel drive.

A 110kW 1.5-litre petrol front-wheel-drive variant has been left on the table.

Cupra Australia says the Ateca V will be well equipped despite its entry-level status.

The most affordable Cupra continues to be the Leon hatchback, which costs from $45,190.

The Ateca is expected to be phased out in the second half of this decade, essentially replaced by the Terramar SUV that is set to be the last combustion-engined Cupra before the brand goes all-electric by 2030.