If given the green light, it's highly likely that the SEAT Ateca Cupra would utilise the new 300hp version of SEAT's 2.0-litre four-cylinder TSI petrol engine, paired with a DSG automatic transmission and 4Drive four-wheel drive. As in the Leon Cupra, DCC damper control would most likely be standard and a 0-100km/h time of about six seconds is predicted, though Rabe confirmed that the engine is capable of more than 300hp reliably.
Discussing the possibility of such a vehicle, Rabe was happy to point out that there isn't another very sporty SUV in the segment right now, as it is, so far, the domain of the premium car makers. He pointed to the likes of the Porsche Macan and BMW X4. Either way, if the Ateca Cupra gets the green light, it's unlikely to be unveiled until 2018.
Anything else?
SEAT has a busy enough year ahead with the launch of the new Ibiza supermini and the Arona crossover based on that car. Rabe was quick to dismiss the possibility of an Arona Cupra and even seemed to dampen expectations for a new SEAT Ibiza Cupra. He did, however, confirm that the Cupra brand would be expanded later this year with more personalisation options, and he also hinted at the possibility of a limited edition model based on the Leon. While weight reduction, suspension stiffening and more power are all on the table as upgrades, Rabe was adamant that any development of the Leon Cupra would retain its normal seating configuration. It's possible that such a car would be called the Leon Cupra R.
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