VS

DS Automobiles DS 3 vs SEAT Ateca comparison

Compare performance (156 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (29,500 £ vs 25,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – DS Automobiles DS 3 or SEAT Ateca?

DS Automobiles DS 3 vs SEAT Ateca: Key differences

DS Automobiles DS 3

  • very slightly more power
  • very slightly lighter
details

SEAT Ateca

4.5 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • moderately cheaper
  • very slightly more efficient
  • only slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • visibly 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

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

DS 3

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

SEAT Ateca is moderately cheaper – starting at 25,100 £ , while the DS Automobiles DS 3 costs 29,500 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,397 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the SEAT Ateca uses 4.9 L/100km and is very slightly more efficient than the DS Automobiles DS 3 with 5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

Ateca

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the DS Automobiles DS 3 offers very slightly more power – delivering 156 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 6 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the SEAT Ateca is only slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 9 s, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 takes 9.1 s. That’s about 0.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the SEAT Ateca delivers visibly more torque with 360 Nm compared to 260 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm more.

DS 3

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, DS Automobiles DS 3 is very slightly lighter – 1,249 kg compared to 1,345 kg. The difference is around 96 kg.

Looking at boot space, the SEAT Ateca offers visibly more boot space – 510 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 160 L.

When it comes to payload, the SEAT Ateca carries moderately more – 525 kg compared to 466 kg. That’s a difference of about 59 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The SEAT Ateca comes out modestly ahead 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 £25,100
Ateca

SEAT Ateca

  • Engine Type Petrol, Diesel
  • Transmission Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 150 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.9 - 6.4 L/100km
details

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 …
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 …
DS Automobiles DS 3
SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

DS Automobiles DS 3

The DS 3 is a chic, compact premium hatch that stands out with couture styling and an interior that feels more boutique than bargain-bin. It serves up a poised, city-friendly drive with plenty of French flair — ideal for buyers who want personality as much as practicality and don’t mind turning heads at the lights.

details
ds_3_06-63bf0895e10ad
ds_3_08-63bf0871e8e6c
ds_3_02-63bf08d01c133
ds_3_03-63bf08badf244
ds_3_07-63bf088092704

Reviews DS Automobiles DS 3

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

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.

details
SEAT-Ateca-2020_36_HQ
SEAT-Ateca_012
SEAT-Ateca_011
SEAT-Ateca_006
SEAT-Ateca_004

Reviews SEAT Ateca

4.5 (6 Reviews)
rate
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
Suzuki Vitara
VS
The SEAT Ateca and Suzuki Vitara are compact SUVs aimed at buyers who want everyday practicality with a bit of style, but they take different routes to get there. The Ateca favours sharper driving dynamics, a more refined cabin and stronger tech, while the Vitara prioritises value, straightforward …
CUPRA Terramar
SEAT Ateca
VS
The CUPRA Terramar serves up sharp handling, punchy powertrains and a premium, slightly flashy cabin that feels like the hot hatch’s grown-up, wearing an SUV’s clothes. The SEAT Ateca is the sensible alternative — roomier, cheaper to run and refreshingly unpretentious — perfect for buyers who want …
Ford Kuga
SEAT Ateca
VS
In the highly competitive compact SUV segment, the Ford Kuga and SEAT Ateca both offer compelling options for consumers. The Kuga stands out with its robust hybrid powertrain options and impressive in-cabin technology, while the Ateca boasts a sportier drive and agility on the road, enhanced by its …
Kia Sportage
SEAT Ateca
VS
When comparing the Kia Sportage and the SEAT Ateca, both models stand out for their blend of style and practicality. The Sportage boasts a more spacious interior and a comprehensive suite of tech features, appealing to families and tech enthusiasts alike. Meanwhile, the Ateca offers agile handling …
CUPRA Ateca
SEAT Ateca
VS
The CUPRA Ateca turns the sensible family SUV into a pocket rocket with sharper suspension, a punchier engine and aggressive styling that makes commuting feel like a weekend trackday. If you prefer lower running costs, more comfort and smarter value, the SEAT Ateca is the clear choice — practical, …
Mazda CX-5
SEAT Ateca
VS
Mazda CX-5 and SEAT Ateca go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Mazda CX-5 or the SEAT Ateca …
SEAT Arona
SEAT Ateca
VS
SEAT Arona and SEAT Ateca go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the SEAT Arona or the SEAT Ateca …
Nissan Juke
SEAT Ateca
VS
Nissan Juke and SEAT Ateca go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Nissan Juke or the SEAT …
DS Automobiles DS 3
SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,500 - 37,600 £
Price
25,100 - 36,900 £
Consumption L/100km
5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 6.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
400 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 112 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
1,249 - 1,646 kg
Curb weight
1,345 - 1,514 kg
Trunk capacity
350 L
Trunk capacity
510 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,791 mm
Width
1,841 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
362 - 466 kg
Payload
516 - 525 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
145 - 156 HP
Power HP
116 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 11 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 260 Nm
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
107 - 115 kW
Power kW
85 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1,968 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D
Brand
DS Automobiles
Brand
SEAT
What drive types are available for the DS Automobiles DS 3?

The DS Automobiles DS 3 is offered with Front-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.