Photo: X-Tomi Design
The Cupra brand is off to a good start with the 300 horsepower Ateca model. But if it wants to be taken seriously, more models will have to be added.
Spanish publication Periodismodel Motor interviewed Antonio Labate, director for development, strategy, brand, and operations at Cupra. He didn't go into specifics but did reveal seven models would be launched between now and 2021.
Don't get too excited, because some of those are special or limited edition models based on the Cupra Ateca. So what else is on the table? For starters, the Ibiza Cupra, which was recently previewed as a production-ready concept.
In the past, SEAT said the supermini hot hatch is dead. But we don't believe that, especially when the powertrain it would need is already found in two other cars, the Polo GTI and its 200 horsepower Audi A1 counterpart.
Also, Cupra could never do it without the car that started it all, the Leon, which now counts as at least two models, the hatch and AWD-equipped wagon. Also, a Cupra Tarraco can't be ruled out, since the 7-seat model is derived from the Skoda Kodiaq, which got an RS version this year.
Reports have indicated that a 200 horsepower Cupra Arona is also on the way, but the second Cupra model is supposed to be some sort of bespoke unit, which gets a sexy Sports Activity Coupe body before it becomes available across the SEAT range. Our source believes it will be called the "Terramar."
As for the special editions, carbon fiber would be a good start, since the body kit fitted to the Leon Cupra R was stellar. Supercar tech going mainstream is always a nice thing.
"We will launch seven new models until 2021, including the special or limited series of the Cupra Ateca and other models. In the future we can talk about this... There will be limited series that have a special finish, with a decoration or exclusive equipment, with a production limited to 1,000 units that will generate an additional value to the car," said Labate.
Don't get too excited, because some of those are special or limited edition models based on the Cupra Ateca. So what else is on the table? For starters, the Ibiza Cupra, which was recently previewed as a production-ready concept.
In the past, SEAT said the supermini hot hatch is dead. But we don't believe that, especially when the powertrain it would need is already found in two other cars, the Polo GTI and its 200 horsepower Audi A1 counterpart.
Also, Cupra could never do it without the car that started it all, the Leon, which now counts as at least two models, the hatch and AWD-equipped wagon. Also, a Cupra Tarraco can't be ruled out, since the 7-seat model is derived from the Skoda Kodiaq, which got an RS version this year.
Reports have indicated that a 200 horsepower Cupra Arona is also on the way, but the second Cupra model is supposed to be some sort of bespoke unit, which gets a sexy Sports Activity Coupe body before it becomes available across the SEAT range. Our source believes it will be called the "Terramar."
As for the special editions, carbon fiber would be a good start, since the body kit fitted to the Leon Cupra R was stellar. Supercar tech going mainstream is always a nice thing.
"We will launch seven new models until 2021, including the special or limited series of the Cupra Ateca and other models. In the future we can talk about this... There will be limited series that have a special finish, with a decoration or exclusive equipment, with a production limited to 1,000 units that will generate an additional value to the car," said Labate.
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