Honda ZR-V vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?

Honda ZR-V

$37,900 - $54,900

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Cupra Ateca

—

2025 price

View pricing & specs

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Summary

2026 Honda ZR-V

2025 Cupra Ateca

By Jack Quick

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 2.0L

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

5.0L/100km (combined)

7.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Finally cheaper hybrid trims
Incredible fuel efficiency
Affordable servicing

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

Dislikes

No spare wheel
Roof-mounted rear centre seatbelt
Small touchscreen

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

2026 Honda ZR-V Summary

Honda used to be a big deal in Australia back in the 1990s and early 2000s but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s moved off your radar in recent years.

The Japanese carmaker has seemingly fallen out of favour in the last few years following its move to an agency retail model which negates haggling on price with dealers.

However, Honda is making a resurgence and it’s putting a heavier focus on hybrid power.

The ZR-V small-to-medium SUV has been updated for 2026 and picks up new, more affordable hybrid trims, among other minor tweaks. Read on to see if this car should be on your shortlist.

View full pricing & specs

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.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Honda ZR-V 2025 Cupra Ateca

Verdict

The Honda ZR-V has always been an engaging and fun car that’s the right size for many people. The frugal hybrid powertrain has always been the pick too.

It’s great that Honda has finally introduced more affordable hybrid trims with this update which addresses one of my biggest criticisms of this car previously.

If you’re willing to forgo some luxury features, this entry-level hybrid trim is a fantastic car that still offers enough creature comforts to be driven daily.

Hopefully Honda has some renewed sales success with this car as I believe it’s a clear benchmark for the segment.

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.

Honda ZR-V vs Cupra Ateca What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Honda ZR-V vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?