CUPRA cars

For years, Cupra was positioned as SEAT’s performance brand, but now it’s become something in its own right, offering compelling EV options to new and used car buyers. The Cupra name comes from combining ‘Cup Racing’, which hints at the brand’s rallying heritage. Speaking of which, the first time the name was used on a car was in 1996 with the SEAT Ibiza GTI Cupra Sport 16v, which was a wide and powerful performance hatchback. 

Today, while it still makes powerful cars, Cupra focuses more on luxury and its newer electric range including the Cupra Born, which is based on the VW ID.3. Other popular models include the Formentor and Ateca SUVs, and the smaller Leon that sits above the Ibiza in the model range. These all offer features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, solid infotainment systems and other bells and whistles including heated steering wheels, rain and light sensors, and remote temperature control. 

When it comes to reliability, all modern Cupra cars should be fine, especially with the backing from the Volkswagen Group, which also owns Porsche, Audi, Skoda, Bentley and Bugatti. In terms of running costs, these should be relatively low because Cupra is a new brand that has strong ties with the aforementioned companies. Electric models such as the Born will be more efficient, but all models offer fuel-efficient powertrain options. 

As for safety, its latest cars tested by Euro NCAP scored a full five stars, offering superb adult and child occupant safety thanks to features such as ISOFIX points, airbags and automatic emergency braking (AEB). The sort of person who should buy a Cupra is someone who is stylish and wants a dependable car that looks more exotic than a VW or Skoda. This is truly where this brand comes into its own.