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CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca comparison

Compare performance (390 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (35,200 £ vs 25,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – CUPRA Formentor or SEAT Ateca?

CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca: Key differences

CUPRA Formentor

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
details

SEAT Ateca

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially cheaper
  • very slightly lighter
  • somewhat more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Formentor

A Battle Between SUVs: CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca

The automotive arena frequently introduces head-to-head competitions between brands that share familial ties. This time, the spotlight is on the sportier CUPRA Formentor and the more traditional SEAT Ateca. Both vehicles come from the same corporate umbrella but tread distinct paths in terms of performance, technology, and design. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these two stalwarts of the SUV world.

Ateca

Engine Variety and Performance

The CUPRA Formentor offers a vast array of engine options appealing to performance aficionados and eco-conscious drivers alike. With options ranging from petrol and diesel to plug-in hybrids, the Formentor is versatile. The power spectrum covers an impressive range from 150 to 333 HP, ensuring a fit for every driver's style. In terms of speed, the Formentor can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.8 seconds and hits a top speed of up to 250 km/h.

Conversely, the SEAT Ateca sticks to the fundamentals with a choice between petrol and diesel engines. Power outputs of the Ateca peak at 150 HP, pooling a 0 to 100 km/h journey in 9 seconds and reaching a maximum speed of 202 km/h. While it may not have the same performance-oriented disposition as the Formentor, it remains a competent companion for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

Formentor

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

When it comes to sipping fuel, the Formentor’s hybrid option stands out with a combined consumption of merely 0.4 L/100km and an electric range of up to 125 km, making it an alluring choice for the eco-conscious buyer. The petrol variants, however, average between 5.1 and 8.8 L/100km, contingent on engine selection.

The SEAT Ateca generally records a fuel consumption in the range of 4.9 to 6.4 L/100km, achieving respectable efficiency given its traditional engine lineup. CO2 emissions are just under the figures of the conventional Formentor models, aligning with typical standards for its class.

Ateca

Innovative Technology and Interior Comfort

CUPRA’s Formentor is packed with technology, featuring optional all-wheel drive and both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions to enhance driving dynamics. Internally, it offers a snug yet spacious ambiance with a variety of shared amenities adapted for comfort and advanced travel experiences.

The SEAT Ateca delivers practicality with its spacious trunk capacity of 510 liters surpassing Formentor's, making it a friendly option for family travels and cargo-heavy tasks. Ateca's technology still holds its ground, with a focus on sustainability and comfort, albeit with traditional engine-transmission marriages.

Formentor

Design and Dimensions

Both models showcase a distinctive design philosophy. The CUPRA Formentor dazzles with its aggressive stance and sporty overtones, stretching 4451 mm in length and standing at a height of roughly 1511 mm. Its sleek appeal is sculpted for the style-conscious driver.

The SEAT Ateca brings a more conservative design to the road but maintains a robust presence. Slightly shorter at 4381 mm and taller at 1601 mm, it offers greater height advantage conducive to spacious headroom, adding to its family-friendly credentials.

Ateca

Final Verdict

The choice between the CUPRA Formentor and SEAT Ateca hinges largely on personal priorities. For those seeking performance flair, extensive engine options, and tech-savvy innovation, the CUPRA Formentor is clearly ahead. However, if practicality, spacious cargo, and a straightforward driving experience take the front seat, then the SEAT Ateca presents a compelling case. Both SUVs embody distinctive characteristics under the unified pursuit of driving excellence. With 2024 and 2025 model year iterations keeping them current, either choice guarantees satisfaction.

Frequently compared as well

CUPRA Formentor
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In the dynamic showdown between the CUPRA Formentor and the CUPRA Terramar, enthusiasts are treated to a blend of style and performance that defines the brand. The Formentor, with its striking design and agile handling, appeals to those seeking a sportier SUV experience, while the Terramar offers a …
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Formentor

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

SEAT Ateca is substantially cheaper – starting at 25,100 £ , while the CUPRA Formentor costs 35,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 10,136 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the CUPRA Formentor uses 1.4 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the SEAT Ateca with 4.9 L/100km. The difference is about 3.5 L/100km.

Ateca

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the CUPRA Formentor offers significantly more power – delivering 390 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 240 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Formentor is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 4.2 s, while the SEAT Ateca takes 9 s. That’s about 4.8 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the CUPRA Formentor delivers visibly more torque with 480 Nm compared to 360 Nm. That’s about 120 Nm more.

Formentor

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, SEAT Ateca is very slightly lighter – 1,345 kg compared to 1,434 kg. The difference is around 89 kg.

Looking at boot space, the SEAT Ateca offers somewhat more boot space – 510 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 60 L.

When it comes to payload, the CUPRA Formentor carries marginally more – 526 kg compared to 525 kg. That’s a difference of about 1 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The CUPRA Formentor holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £35,200
Formentor

CUPRA Formentor

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 390 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.4 - 10.1 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 117 - 126 km
details
CUPRA Formentor
SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

CUPRA Formentor

With coupe-like lines and a muscular stance the Cupra Formentor blends sporty drama with everyday sense, so it looks like it’s in motion even at a standstill. Inside and out it’s tuned for drivers who want engaging handling and a grown-up cabin — practical enough for daily life, playful enough to make the commute feel like a short track session.

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Reviews CUPRA Formentor

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
Waldemar
7 Feb 2026, 09:46:20

For me, a mature man, the "civilian" version was enough — an automatic, very well-equipped, with the 150‑hp engine in Magnetic Tech.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

SEAT Ateca

The SEAT Ateca blends sharp, purposeful styling with practical space that turns everyday errands into something a bit more enjoyable. It’s poised and engaging to drive for its segment, offers solid value, and has just enough personality to make you smile on the school run.

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Reviews SEAT Ateca

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

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SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
Price
35,200 - 62,500 £
Price
25,100 - 36,900 £
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 10.1 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 6.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
117 - 126 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
32 - 229 g/km
co2
129 - 144 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,434 - 1,742 kg
Curb weight
1,345 - 1,514 kg
Trunk capacity
345 - 450 L
Trunk capacity
510 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,839 - 1,852 mm
Width
1,841 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
439 - 526 kg
Payload
516 - 525 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 390 HP
Power HP
116 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.2 - 9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 11 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 - 480 Nm
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 287 kW
Power kW
85 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 2,480 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1,968 cm3

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, E, D, F, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D
Brand
CUPRA
Brand
SEAT
What drive types are available for the CUPRA Formentor?

The CUPRA Formentor is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.