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
The Cupra Ateca gives you huge performance and impressive practicality for a reasonable price, but the Ford Puma ST will deliver even bigger thrills for significantly less money. And, if you’re after a sports SUV with an upmarket interior and a cosseting ride, then we’d take a Cupra Formentor.
PROS Cheap by all-wheel drive performance SUV standards Just as practical as a regular Seat Ateca Very well equipped
CONS Expensive compared with many conventional hot hatches So-so interior quality Engine could sound fruitier
PROS Hot hatch performance with SUV styling and practicality
CONS Infotainment isn’t easiest to use, Formentor is more stylish
As a company car proposition, the Suzuki Across stacks up well; its low emissions bring low tax bills, and its very good all-electric range and punchy performance sweeten the deal. But an extremely high list price narrows its appeal among private buyers; cheaper alternatives are better to drive, more comfortable, and nicer inside.
PROS Low official CO2 emissions Punchy performance Long electric-only range
CONS Very expensive Poor infotainment system Rivals are better to drive
PROS Smooth and powerful drive Great electric range and CO2 Practical and high-quality interior
CONS Very expensive Ride is a touch firm Shorter warranty than Toyota
