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Cupra Ateca Takes Fuel Consumption Test: Thirsty Little Thing

Even though new regulations are now in place, we still don't trust official fuel consumption numbers, especially when vehicles are heavy and/or fitted with powerful turbocharged engines. And that's the case with the Cupra Ateca.
Cupra Ateca Takes Fuel Consumption Test: Thirsty Little Thing 1 photo
Photo: YouTube screenshot/AutoCentrum
The first performance crossovers were a little smaller and lighter. We're talking about the MINI Countryman JCW or Nissan Juke Nismo. But automakers (including MINI) decided a 1.6 turbo wouldn't be enough to give you the necessary goosebumps. Of course, the Cupra Ateca was always going to have the same 2.0 TSI as the Leon, which it shares to some degree with the VW T-Roc R and Audi SQ2.

Now, the Leon Cupra can be relatively frugal when in the eco mode because it's barely heavier than a normal family hatchback. However, the Ateca less aerodynamic, packs standard AWD and a DSG gearbox, which can negatively impact fuel consumption in some situations.

Officially, the model is rated at 8.9 l/100km (32 mpg UK) in urban driving, which is less than a liter more than the hatchback. But the numbers are a little ambitious. This independent test from Polish website AutoCentrum suggests that when the driver is trying to be frugal, the Cupra will drink 9.6 l/100km (29 mpg).

When he's being energetic with the 300 HP crossover, it goes to 20.0 l/100km (14 mpg). VW dials don't show anything above that; otherwise, owners would freak out. So what about cruising?

Holding a steady speed of 90 km/h, it averages 8.0 l/100km(35mpg), while at 140 km/h, the car drinks 12 liters. If your commute to work is 3 kilometers long, expect an average consumption of 12.2 l/100km (23 mpg, relevant for cold starts).

The upside to all this is an Ateca that looks ready only for school runs yet will do 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in about 5 seconds. Also, check out the acceleration test below or one of the drag races we shared earlier.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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