Mahindra XUV700 vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?

Mahindra XUV700

$39,990 - $42,990

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Cupra Ateca

—

2025 price

View pricing & specs

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Summary

2026 Mahindra XUV700

2025 Cupra Ateca

By Tim Nicholson

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

—

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

8.3L/100km (combined)

7.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Value for money
Punchy engine
Versatile, well-appointed interior

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

Dislikes

Average fuel consumption
Ride and handling need work
Some cabin quality issues

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

2026 Mahindra XUV700 Summary

There are around 30 different models fighting for your attention in Australia’s medium SUV segment. More than double that if you include premium options. In other words, there’s overwhelming choice.

Some of the most popular options include Toyota’s RAV4, the Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage and Mitsubishi Outlander, with a bunch of Chinese brands climbing up the charts.

But have you ever considered a Mahindra? The Indian carmaker has been operating in Australia for close to 20 years and the product line-up has improved considerably.

Case in point, the MY25 Mahindra XUV700. A replacement for the unloved XUV500, it’s just come in for a refresh adding new interior trim and tech features and it’s still affordable.

But is it worth taking a chance on the up-and-coming brand? Read on to find out.

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 Mahindra XUV700 2025 Cupra Ateca

Verdict

The Mahindra XUV700 is a solid, well-rounded family SUV. It has a practical cabin with a usable third row and a punchy turbocharged powertrain. The Indian manufacturer needs to address a few things like interior quality and some ADAS calibration and there’s more work to do when it comes to ride and handling. But overall this seven-seat SUV represents exceptional value for money against some pricier rivals and should be on more consideration lists.

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.

Mahindra XUV700 vs Cupra Ateca What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mahindra XUV700 vs Cupra Ateca
What's the difference?