Spanish car maker Cupra is coming Downunder at a date yet to be set, other than that it will be in the second quarter of 2022.
Cupra is the high-performance division of SEAT and was launched in 2018 as a stand-alone brand. It has its own corporate headquarters, as well as a racing car workshop in Martorell, Barcelona. It will be part of the Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA).
VGA’s Managing Director Michael Bartsch said “The presence of Cupra within VGA perfectly complements the diverse offerings of Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda.”
Interestingly, Australia will be the first market where Cupra will operate exclusively as a performance brand.
Initially there will be three models in the Australian line-up: Cupra Formentor crossover SUV, Cupra Ateca SUV and Cupra Leon hatchback.
No prices have been announced at this stage, but VGA says, “It is envisaged that the Cupra range’s recommended retail pricing will start just north of $40,000 and finish just above $60,000.”
Cupra will be sold online and via an agency structure in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group. It will have pop-up sales points and outlets based in existing high-profile retail environments.
Vehicles will be serviced within selected outlets of the Volkswagen Group network. They will be covered by a factory-backed, five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.
Cupra is directed within Volkswagen Group Australia by Ben Wilks. Mr Wilks has been with VGA since its establishment in 2001.
“Cupra represents a great opportunity for VGA as a whole,” Mr Wilks said.
“Australians love performance vehicles. Two out of three new private sales are SUVs. Cupra’s debut Australian range nails the brief, enabling VGA to offer more of what the discerning private customer wants.”
The initial three Cupra models are:
CUPRA LEON
Three petrol engines: 140kW, 180kW and 221kW.
Plug-in hybrid: 180kW.
CUPRA ATECA
221kW petrol with all-wheel-drive
CUPRA FORMENTOR
Three petrol engines all with all-wheel-drive: 140kW, 180kW and 228kW.
Plug-in hybrid: 180kW.
Detailed specifications and pricing will be announced closer to the Australian launch and we will bring these to you as soon as they’re available.
