Cupra Ateca

This month, the Cupra mixes business with pleasure

MOVING HOUSE IS NEVER FUN. IT’S UP there with root canal work and Michael Mcintyre. So anything that makes the process less stressful is to be welcomed. Thank you, Cupra Ateca.

Its size has actually been a good thing for once, because the ability to haul all manner of household paraphernalia between points A and B has eased the stress levels. Thoughtful touches have helped things along too, such as the handy seat-back release catches in the boot, and rear seats that fold themselves flat to save you the trouble. And once they’re lowered, it’s surprising just how much the Cupra can swallow, a complete collection of evo magazines included.

But it hasn’t all been work and no play, a few days away in Chester this month affording the opportunity to stretch the Cupra’s legs on the roads of Snowdonia National Park less than an hour away. Well you would, wouldn’t you?

Engaging Sport or Cupra mode noticeably heightens the Cupra’s throttle response. Said modes also add a welcome, all-natural deeper edge (no pumped-in fake nonsense here) to the otherwise demure engine note. However, come to a slower speed zone and I’ve found myself twirling the mode dial back to Comfort due to the auto ’box often lingering in too low a gear.

There was also no escaping the Cupra’s size on some of the narrower Welsh roads, but it has to be said there is an element of fun (up to a point) to be had from hustling the Cupra along a not-too-twisty country lane. Even if it is an SUV…

Date acquired January 2019 Total mileage 6088 Mileage this month 548 Costs this month £0 mpg this month 31.7