Jeep Cherokee vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?

Jeep Cherokee

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2020 price

View pricing & specs

Cupra Ateca

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2025 price

View pricing & specs

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Summary

2020 Jeep Cherokee

2025 Cupra Ateca

By Tom White

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

V6, 3.2L

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

10.2L/100km (combined)

7.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Impressive equipment
Some genuine off-road ability
Comfort

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

Dislikes

Thirsty V6
Boot could be bigger
Pricey servicing

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

2020 Jeep Cherokee Summary

So, you’ve seen the mainstream mid-size SUV players, and you’re looking for something… a little different.

Maybe you’re even looking for something with some off-road ability, and that’s maybe caused you to steer away from segment heavyweights like the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, or Mazda CX-5.

Am I right so far? Maybe you’re just curious to find out what one of Jeep’s main models offers in 2020. Either way, I spent a week in this top-spec Trailhawk to find out if it’s the semi-off-roader it looks to be, or if it stands a chance against the mainstream players.

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.

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Deep dive comparison

2020 Jeep Cherokee 2025 Cupra Ateca

Verdict

The Cherokee is perhaps not going to tempt anyone set on a mainstream mid-size family SUV. But, to those on the periphery who are genuinely looking for something different, there’s a lot on offer here.

The proposition is boosted by the Cherokee’s unique off-road equipment and compelling price tag, but just keep in mind it’s old-fashioned in more than just one way…

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.

Jeep Cherokee vs Cupra Ateca What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Jeep Cherokee vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?