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CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca comparison

Compare performance (390 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (35,800 £ 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

4.8 (3 Reviews)
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  • significantly more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
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SEAT Ateca

4.5 (7 Reviews)
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  • substantially cheaper
  • very slightly lighter
  • somewhat more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

Achim Sedelmaier
Formentor

CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca — quick take

CUPRA Formentor and SEAT Ateca start from the same VW Group roots but aim at different buyers: the Formentor pitches sporty styling and a driver-focused personality, while the Ateca leans into straightforward practicality and value. The Formentor looks and feels more like a performance-oriented crossover, with taut chassis tuning and showy cues; the Ateca trades some of that drama for easy-to-use ergonomics and a no-nonsense cabin. Both cars are comfortable for daily use, yet they deliver that comfort in distinct ways — Formentor through supportive seats and dynamic poise, Ateca through simple packaging and predictable controls. If you search results online for CUPRA Formentor vs SEAT Ateca, expect comparisons to circle around handling, tech and how much luggage you really need in everyday life.

Ateca

Driving character: sporty edge versus everyday composure

The CUPRA Formentor drives with a noticeably sportier bias, with sharper turn-in and a chassis that rewards brisk inputs; the SEAT Ateca is also willing and precise but feels more neutral and composed for relaxed commuting. Formentor's firmer setup and stronger engine options make it the more engaging choice on twisty roads or when you want eager acceleration, while Ateca's predictability and lighter steering suit city driving and tight parking. In town the Ateca's compact manners and clear sightlines make manoeuvres less stressful, whereas the Formentor benefits from a more planted feel at higher speeds and when you want to exploit grip. Choose the Formentor if you prioritise driving enjoyment, the Ateca if you prioritise low-stress everyday usability.

Formentor

Comfort and long-distance behavior

Both the CUPRA Formentor and SEAT Ateca will handle daily commutes easily, but their long-distance characters diverge in audible and ride terms. Formentor offers very supportive, long-friendly seats that keep you comfortable on extended runs, yet wind and tyre noise are more noticeable at motorway speeds; its plug‑in options can soften that effect in city driving by running on electricity. The Ateca’s suspension is on the firmer side and transmits more road irregularities with bigger wheels, and it tends to expose tyre and wind noise more plainly on highways, so expect a less hushed cabin on long trips. If motorway serenity is a priority, neither is class-leading, but the Formentor’s seats and overall composure will feel more planted, while the Ateca trades off some comfort for crispness and economy.

Ateca

Usability and family practicality

When it comes to hauling people and stuff, the SEAT Ateca is the more pragmatic pick: its boot shape, simple access features and rear-seat usability are tuned for everyday family life. The CUPRA Formentor complicates that picture slightly because different powertrains alter usable boot volume and load shapes, so a sporty or plug‑in variant may deliver less luggage room than you expect. Rear-seat space in both cars is broadly similar for two adults, but the Ateca’s straightforward layout and easy-to-use latches make fitting child seats and weekend gear less fiddly. Families who need consistent, predictable cargo space and quick usability will find the Ateca easier to live with; buyers attracted to the Formentor should check the exact version to make sure it suits their packing habits.

Formentor

Cabin feel, controls and perceived quality

The CUPRA Formentor presents a more contemporary, slightly premium impression up front with a larger screen and refreshed interface, but that modern look comes with touch‑heavy controls that some users find fiddly compared with physical knobs. The SEAT Ateca opts for a simpler, more traditional control layout that is easier to operate without learning curves, even if parts of the interior show harder plastics in less visible areas. Over time the Formentor’s materials and design give a stronger aspirational feel on approach and at first touch, whereas the Ateca’s straightforward ergonomics reward drivers who prioritise reliability and clarity over flash. If you value upmarket cabin cues and a sportier ambience, the Formentor nudges ahead; if you prefer tactile simplicity and fewer distractions, the Ateca’s approach will be more reassuring.

Ateca

Who should choose which car — buyer fit

Pick the CUPRA Formentor if you want a crossover that feels lively, looks distinct and offers stronger performance or plug‑in flexibility for company-car or spirited driving duties; it suits buyers who accept some compromise in noise and variable boot space for driving satisfaction and style. Choose the SEAT Ateca if you prioritise predictable practicality, lower running fuss and straightforward controls — it fits budget-conscious families and city drivers who want an easy-to-live-with SUV. Both cars have trade-offs, so use a test drive to validate whether you prefer the Formentor’s dynamic edge or the Ateca’s pragmatic strengths before you dive into the detailed technical comparison that follows.

Frequently compared as well

CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Terramar
VS
Choosing between the Cupra Formentor and the Cupra Terramar means deciding whether you want a sporting, head-turning compact crossover or a more conventional compact SUV that leans toward comfort and space. The Formentor emphasizes sharper handling, bold styling and a driver-focused feel, while the …
CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Leon
VS
Choose the CUPRA Formentor if you want SUV presence, extra boot space and a comfy ride that still hides a spicy engine under the hood; pick the CUPRA Leon if you crave a lower, sharper hot-hatch feel with crisper handling and more driver-focused thrills. In short: the Formentor impresses with …

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 35,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 10,646 £.

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 £35,800
Formentor

CUPRA Formentor

  • Engine Type Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plug-in Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic, Manual
  • 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

The CUPRA Formentor blends sporty driving dynamics with crossover practicality, delivering sharp handling and an engaging character that makes it fun on twisty roads as well as in daily driving. Inside, it pairs a driver-focused cabin and premium materials with clever practicality, offering a confident, distinctive alternative to conventional SUVs.

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Reviews CUPRA Formentor

4.8 (3 Reviews)
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Imro
3 Aug 2026, 12:27:50

I drive a Formentor myself and I'm very satisfied with it. Although it's a relatively heavy car, it feels surprisingly light on its feet and can be steered confidently through corners. At the same time it's also perfectly suited for relaxed drives. But as soon as you start driving a bit more sportily, it responds instantly and shows what it's capable of.

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

4.5 (7 Reviews)
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editor
1 Jul 2026, 17:23:30

Exactly the right size. Just still suitable for families. The touchscreen is nicely integrated, not just a tablet stuck on — it flows into a console with the Virtual Cockpit and still has real buttons for the most important everyday functions. Perfect mix. My comparisons were the new 2er Active Tourer, the B‑Class and the Kia Sportage. The Ateca won for me overall by a clear margin, but it was a bit overpriced in comparison. And it wasn't my dream car. More a "practical car." Cheap is a thing of the past.

The speedo shows up to 218 km/h, but it really struggles to get beyond about 180. Above 150 km/h it also gets noticeably louder, but still acceptable. For people who like to glide along comfortably it's a very good choice; for those who like to drive fast, rather not. It handles dirt tracks well thanks to its ground clearance, and it also takes corners very well. Already somewhat sporty, agile.

Folding tow hitch, partially autonomous driving, lots of useful driver aids, a good multimedia concept, etc., as well as the very good seating position and controls make it attractive.

My previous 2.0L diesel was noticeably better to drive at higher speeds. But yes, times have changed. Not everything is perfect, but overall it has earned its 5 stars when you factor in the price and compare what you get for your money. 1.5 TSI Xperience DSG +XL + ***

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Stefan
10 Jun 2026, 12:17:28

The Seat Ateca is a very affordable SUV with excellent handling and plenty of space for the whole family. A companion that can do it all and is equally suited to everyday use as to long trips fully loaded. A very good choice for the active family that needs a car that fits most needs.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Nico
20 May 2026, 12:31:33

+ Great, firm seats, large boot for such a compact car, good fuel economy, lots of interior space, uncomplicated controls, very agile and safe handling, good build quality, very good steering, good braking performance, relatively small turning circle
- Very poor voice control and navigation, cockpit display too small with very small fonts and symbols, steering wheel too thin, seats too flat despite electric adjustment, poor engine soundproofing, tank far too small, complicated maintenance (oil change appalling), undersized rear brake, fuel filler on the wrong side, sound almost without bass (Beats)

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

Frequently compared as well

SEAT Ateca
VW T-Roc
VS
The SEAT Ateca and the VW T‑Roc are two closely related compact crossover SUVs from the Volkswagen Group, each offering a blend of practicality, comfort and engaging driving manners. This comparison will highlight where the Ateca’s straightforward value and roomy practicality differ from the …
CUPRA Formentor
Ford Kuga
VS
The Cupra Formentor and the Ford Kuga are two popular compact SUVs that take very different approaches: the Formentor prioritises sporty driving dynamics and striking design, while the Kuga focuses on comfort, practicality and efficient powertrains. This comparison will cover performance, interior …
SEAT Ateca
Skoda Kamiq
VS
The SEAT Ateca and Skoda Kamiq are two popular compact SUVs that take different approaches: the Ateca leans toward a roomier, more driver-focused experience while the Kamiq prioritizes city-friendly practicality and efficiency. This comparison will focus on space, driving dynamics, equipment and …
CUPRA Formentor
Volvo XC40
VS
The CUPRA Formentor is a punchy, coupe-styled compact SUV whose sharp chassis and spicy engines deliver grin-inducing drive and looks that demand attention; the Volvo XC40 answers with calm Scandinavian poise, clever practicality and safety tech that makes daily life feel worry-free. If you crave …
CUPRA Formentor
Kia Sportage
VS
Cupra Formentor vs Kia Sportage — two compact crossovers that take very different approaches: the Formentor leans toward sporty performance and sharp handling, while the Sportage focuses on comfort, space and everyday practicality. I’ll compare performance, interior quality, tech, running costs and …
CUPRA Formentor
Hyundai Tucson
VS
The Cupra Formentor and the Hyundai Tucson are compact crossovers that take different approaches — the Formentor leans sporty and driver-focused while the Tucson prioritizes practicality, comfort and broad appeal. Choosing between them comes down to whether you want sharper performance, distinctive …
CUPRA Formentor
VW T-Roc
VS
The Cupra Formentor and the VW T‑Roc are compact crossovers that balance everyday practicality with distinct personalities—one leaning sporty and style‑focused, the other aiming for broad appeal and comfort. This quick comparison highlights how the Formentor’s sharper driving character and design …
CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Raval
VS
The Formentor and Raval are two different CUPRA models—one built around sporty performance and versatile packaging, the other aimed at compact urban efficiency—so this comparison will help you pick the best fit for your needs. I’ll compare performance, interior space, tech and running costs to make …
CUPRA Formentor
SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
Price
35,800 - 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, Plug-in Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic, Manual
Transmission
Manual, 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.