Cupra Ateca vs Land Rover Discovery
What's the difference?

Cupra Ateca

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2025 price

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Land Rover Discovery

$117,000 - $147,000

2026 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2025 Cupra Ateca

2026 Land Rover Discovery

By Laura Berry

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.0L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

7.1L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

The 'mysterious' brand
Volkswagen quality and engineering
Lower price into the Ateca model

Smooth and effortless power
Composed ride and handling
Elegant but strong capability

Dislikes

Safety tech could be more cutting edge
Fuel economy on the high side
No head-up display

Technology often frustrates
Cabin lacks a distinct personality
Cramped middle row for segment

2025 Cupra Ateca Summary

Not many people even know what a Cupra Ateca V is… and this is the second best thing about this small SUV. The first best thing is that Cupra is owned by Volkswagen.

So, this means you can have your mysterious SUV not many other people drive while knowing it’s underpinned by one of the largest car manufacturers in the world which makes cars millions of people drive and one which also has a reputation for high quality vehicles.

The big news here is the Ateca model range has a new and lower entry fee with the arrival of this V grade. See, until now the only Ateca Australians could buy is the high-performance VZx which while really sporty also came with a pretty big price tag.

So, how much is the Ateca V and what do you get for the money? We found this out at the Australian launch along with how practical and safe it is and what it’s like to drive.

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2026 Land Rover Discovery Summary

Land Rover has launched a 35th Anniversary Edition of the Discovery, a seven-seat model that’s been a familiar sight on Australian roads for decades. Sitting in the large SUV category, it’s up against a fiercely contested field where the Lexus GX and Toyota LandCruiser Prado are household favourites.

The special edition lands squarely in the middle of that pack, a space that demands serious capability and comfort while still delivering a sense of occasion.

So the question is, does it manage to do all three?

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Cupra Ateca 2026 Land Rover Discovery

Verdict

The Cupra Ateca V is a much needed more affordable way into this small SUV while still offering a high-end feeling with plenty of standard features. Yes, the V isn't as high-powered as the VZx but it's still great to drive in the city and on the open road. Big on the inside and small on the outside the Cupra Ateca can perform urban and (small) family duties well.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

The Land Rover Discovery 35th Anniversary Edition drives beautifully, with effortless power and a composed, comfortable ride. It’s elegant and well-equipped for its price, though the technology often frustrates, and it’s not as spacious as some seven-seater rivals. Small quirks in everyday use prevent it from fully standing out in a competitive segment but it does enough to be considered.

Cupra Ateca vs Land Rover Discovery What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Cupra Ateca vs Land Rover Discovery
What's the difference?