CUPRA Cars 2026: Models, Prices and Review for Lithuania

Quick answer

CUPRA offers 5 models in Lithuania in 2026: Born EV from €36,000, Formentor from €32,000, Leon from €28,000, Ateca from €30,000, and Tavascan from €42,000. According to WHEELSTREET data, the CUPRA Formentor is the most popular model in Lithuania, offering Audi-level performance at 15-20% lower prices thanks to shared VW Group platforms.

CUPRA is one of the fastest-growing car brands in Europe. In just six years since its independent launch, this Spanish brand has managed to win over tens of thousands of drivers by offering what was missing from the market: sporty character, bold design and premium feel -- at a more affordable price than Audi or BMW.

CUPRA cars are becoming increasingly popular in Lithuania. The Formentor has become one of the most visible crossovers on our roads, Born attracts electric car enthusiasts, and Leon VZ offers what many thought impossible -- a true sporty compact with modern technology. However, information about CUPRA in Lithuanian is still scarce: what are the real prices in Lithuania? How does CUPRA differ from SEAT? Is it worth paying more? Where to service?

In this article -- everything you need to know about CUPRA cars in Lithuania in 2026: from detailed reviews of each model and prices to comparisons with competitors, operating costs and practical buying tips.

If you've already decided on the type of car and are considering financing -- our leasing calculator will help you quickly calculate monthly payments.

Contents

• What is CUPRA? Brand history and philosophy
• CUPRA model range 2026
• CUPRA Formentor -- sporty crossover
• CUPRA Born -- electric hatchback
• CUPRA Leon -- sporty compact
• CUPRA Ateca -- sporty SUV (used only)
• CUPRA Tavascan -- electric SUV
• Price table: all models
• CUPRA vs competitors -- comparison tables
• Operating costs in Lithuania
• CUPRA in Lithuania: where to buy and service
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusions and recommendations

What is CUPRA? Brand History and Philosophy

From SEAT sports division to independent brand

The name CUPRA has long been associated with SEAT for many -- and that's not a mistake. CUPRA history began back in 1985, when SEAT started using the "CUPRA" designation (short for CUP RAcing) for its sporty models. For more than three decades, CUPRA was SEAT's sportiest version -- like GTI is to Volkswagen, or M is to BMW.

However, in 2018, everything changed. SEAT made a bold decision to separate CUPRA as a completely independent brand with its own identity, dealer network and model range. This was not just a marketing trick -- it was a strategic Volkswagen Group move to fill the gap between mass-market brands (VW, SEAT, Skoda) and premium brands (Audi, BMW).

In 2021, CUPRA took another important step -- the brand became a completely independent Volkswagen Group brand with its own showrooms, design language and future strategy. Today, CUPRA operates separately from SEAT, although both brands continue to share platforms and manufacturing capacity.

Volkswagen Group backing

CUPRA belongs to the Volkswagen Group -- the largest car manufacturer in Europe. This means several important things:

• Technology: CUPRA models use the same platforms and engines as VW Golf, Audi A3 and Skoda Octavia (MQB platform), as well as VW ID.3 and ID.4 (MEB electric platform). These are proven, mass-produced technologies.
• Quality: Manufacturing takes place in the same factories as VW and SEAT -- at the Martorell plant near Barcelona, Spain. Quality control meets VW Group standards.
• Parts and service: Many CUPRA parts are shared with VW, SEAT and Audi -- meaning good parts availability and lower maintenance costs than true premium brands.
• Safety: All CUPRA models feature modern driver assistance systems typical of VW Group -- from adaptive cruise control to lane keeping and automatic emergency braking.

Design philosophy: Mediterranean sports character

CUPRA positions itself as a "Mediterranean sports brand" -- meaning design is dominated by emotion, boldness and passion, rather than cold German minimalism. In practice, this manifests as:

• More aggressive exterior: Wider air intake openings, copper-colored accents (CUPRA's signature shade), sporty spoilers and diffusers.
• Sporty interior: Sporty seats with CUPRA logo and lateral support, flat-bottomed steering wheel, copper-colored details, ambient lighting.
• Sound and feel: Stiffer suspension (but not uncomfortably hard), more precise steering, sportier engine sound than SEAT or VW equivalents.
• Emotional connection: CUPRA cars are designed to inspire the desire to drive -- not just transport, but an experience.

Who is CUPRA for?

CUPRA's target audience is drivers who:

• Want more emotion than VW Golf or Skoda Octavia offer
• Appreciate sporty design and driving feel
• Seek premium feel at lower cost than Audi or BMW
• Want to stand out -- CUPRA is not yet as common on roads as VW or Toyota
• Are prepared to pay 5,000--10,000 EUR more than for equivalent SEAT or VW models

If you recognize yourself in this description -- CUPRA is definitely worth your attention.

CUPRA by the numbers

CUPRA's growth in recent years has been impressive:

• 2020: ~27,000 cars sold worldwide
• 2022: ~152,000 cars sold (5.6x growth in 2 years)
• 2024: ~250,000+ cars sold in Europe
• 2025: CUPRA became one of the fastest-growing car brands in the EU, surpassing several established competitors

This growth shows that CUPRA found its market niche -- and it's working.

CUPRA Model Range 2026

In 2026, CUPRA offers a five-model range covering different segments and drivetypes:

* CUPRA Ateca production ended -- listed used car prices.

The range covers virtually all popular segments: from compact hatchback to mid-size SUV, from petrol engines to pure electric powertrains. Let's look at each model in detail.

CUPRA Formentor -- Sporty Crossover

CUPRA Formentor is undoubtedly the most important and popular CUPRA model. It's the first car designed exclusively for CUPRA brand -- not a rebadged SEAT, but created from scratch as CUPRA. And you feel it throughout the car.

Formentor is a sporty crossover with coupe-style roof line, combining SUV practicality with sports car dynamics. It sits between compact hatchback and mid-size SUV -- and this niche is one of the most popular in Europe. The name comes from Formentor cape in Mallorca, Spain -- one of the most dramatic Mediterranean coastlines.

Engine range

CUPRA Formentor offers one of the broadest engine ranges in its class -- from efficient small turbos to powerful hybrids and performance-level units:

1.5 TSI (150 PS) -- base engine perfectly suited for daily driving. It's the most popular VW Group engine (code name EA211 evo), used in Golf, Octavia and many other models. Reliable, economical (around 6.5--7.5 l/100 km in real city conditions, 5.5--6.5 l on highways) and sufficient power for most drivers. With 7-speed DSG the driving is smooth and comfortable, with 6-speed manual -- more engaging.

1.5 e-HYBRID (204 PS) -- plug-in hybrid version with 12.8 kWh battery. Electric range reaches about 55--60 km (WLTP), and in real conditions -- 40--50 km in summer and 30--40 km in winter. Perfect for those who want daily city electric driving but don't want to give up petrol for longer trips. System total power is 204 PS and torque reaches 350 Nm, ensuring solid dynamics. More on hybrid vs electric choice read here.

2.0 TSI (265 PS) -- serious option for those wanting dynamics without compromise. With 4Drive full-time all-wheel drive and 5.8 s to 100 km/h -- this is already genuine sports car level, hidden in practical crossover body. The EA888 evo engine is one of the best turbocharged four-cylinders on the market, proven in both Golf GTI and Audi S3. This variant is most popular in Lithuania -- 4Drive provides confidence in winter.

2.0 TSI VZ (333 PS) -- most powerful version, where CUPRA truly shows its sports character. 4.6 s to 100 km/h, 250 km/h top speed and Akebono sports brakes -- this is serious, capable of competing with Audi SQ3 and BMW X2 M35i. The VZ version (from Spanish "Veloz" -- "fast") also features adaptive DCC dampers, progressive steering and sports exhaust sound.

Interior and technology

Formentor interior features modern, sports-oriented design noticeably higher quality than SEAT models:

• 12.9-inch central touchscreen with MIB3+ infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit) with configurable views
• Sporty seats with integrated headrests and CUPRA logo -- with Alcantara trim in higher spec levels
• Flat-bottomed steering wheel with CUPRA sports button (direct access to driving modes)
• Ambient lighting with 10+ color choices, featuring signature copper shade
• Adaptive cruise control ACC, Lane Assist, Front Assist with pedestrian recognition
• Virtual pedal (foot gesture sensor for boot opening) in higher versions
• Harman Kardon sound system with 390W amplifier and 12 speakers (option)
• Driving mode selection: Comfort, Sport, CUPRA and Individual -- each changes engine response, suspension stiffness, steering weight and ambient lighting

Trim quality is noticeably higher than SEAT models -- softer dashboard plastics, Alcantara accents, better seats, more details. But honestly -- there's still room for improvement versus Audi level, especially rear seat with legroom that could be more generous for tall passengers.

Practicality: Formentor length is 4,450 mm, width 1,839 mm, height 1,511 mm. Boot holds 420 liters (petrol versions) or 345 liters (e-HYBRID due to battery). With rear seats folded -- up to 1,475 liters. Solid everyday space, but not the largest in class (Audi Q3 Sportback offers 530 l).

Prices in Lithuania

New CUPRA Formentor:

Prices may vary depending on specification and additional options. With popular options (panoramic roof, Harman Kardon, DCC) price typically increases by 3,000--5,000 EUR.

Used CUPRA Formentor (2021--2024):

Used Formentor models in Lithuania are found on both autoplius.lt and autogidas.lt -- supply has grown significantly as many cars return from 3-year lease agreements. It's a good time to buy used Formentor. If you're looking, check our used cars search.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Distinctive, bold design -- one of the most beautiful crossovers on market, unmistakable with anything else
• Wide engine range -- from economical 1.5 TSI for daily use to sporty VZ 333 PS
• VW Group reliability and parts availability -- service is no problem in Lithuania
• Good practicality: 420 l boot, 4Drive versions have all-wheel drive for winter
• Sporty driving feel and precise steering -- feels more alive than VW Tiguan or Skoda Karoq
• e-HYBRID version with ~55 km electric range -- economical for daily city use
• Unique model -- no SEAT equivalent, true CUPRA

Disadvantages:

• Rear seat could be more spacious -- especially legroom for tall passengers
• Infotainment system sometimes responds slowly -- general VW Group issue, though improved in newer versions
• Lack of physical buttons -- climate control and other functions moved to screen
• VZ version expensive -- for similar price can look at Audi Q3 Sportback or BMW X2
• e-HYBRID boot smaller (345 l vs 420 l) due to battery location
• Not cheapest in class -- SEAT Ateca and Skoda Karoq offer similar space cheaper (but without CUPRA emotion)

Who is Formentor right for?

Formentor is ideal for driver wanting sporty, stylish crossover with practical body. Excellent choice for both daily city driving and longer trips. If you previously drove VW Tiguan or Skoda Karoq and want something more emotional -- Formentor is logical step up without Audi pricing. If choosing between Formentor and Audi Q3 -- ask yourself: is brand and subtlety more important (Audi), or character and individuality (CUPRA)?

CUPRA Born -- Electric Hatchback

CUPRA Born is an electric hatchback based on Volkswagen Group's MEB platform (same as VW ID.3 and ID.4). But Born is not just "sportier ID.3" -- CUPRA engineers worked hard to make this car feel different: stiffer sports suspension, more precise steering, sporty seats with excellent lateral support and more aggressive design with CUPRA signature copper accents.

Born is CUPRA's answer to the question: "Can an electric car be fun to drive?" Answer -- yes, and very much so.

The name "Born" has double meaning -- it refers to El Born district in Barcelona (where CUPRA idea was born) and the English word "born" -- as start of new era.

Batteries and range

CUPRA Born offers several battery and power combinations:

What do these numbers mean for Lithuanian driver?

WLTP range is laboratory measurement almost never achieved in real life. In summer, city and suburban driving, real range typically reaches 80--90% of WLTP figure. That's very good.

However, winter changes situation. In -5...-15 C temperatures (typical Lithuanian winter), real range can drop 25--35% from WLTP. With 77 kWh battery and heat pump (standard in latest Born models) winter range should reach 320--390 km -- sufficient for most daily needs, but for longer trips (e.g., Vilnius--Klaipėda and back) you'll need to plan charging stop at fast charger.

With 58 kWh battery, you can expect 220--270 km in winter -- this can be inconvenient if you drive 100+ km daily. Our recommendation for Lithuanian climate: choose 77 kWh battery.

More on using electric car in Lithuania -- is it worth buying? -- read here.

Charging

DC fast charging speeds (120--135 kW) are solid, though not record-breaking. Ignitis ON, Eleport and Ionity stations operating in Lithuania support these speeds, so from 10 to 80% you can charge in about 33--36 minutes -- one coffee stop time on journey.

Born also supports V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) technologies -- meaning car can not only receive but also give electricity. V2L lets you use car as mobile power source (e.g., camping), and V2G will eventually let you give electricity back to grid when prices are highest. This infrastructure in Lithuania is still developing, but technology is ready.

Dynamics and driving feel

One interesting aspect of Born -- it's rear-wheel drive. Most compact cars are front-wheel drive, but Born (like all MEB platform cars) has rear-mounted motor. This provides sportier behavior in corners -- car feels naturally balanced and likes to turn.

Born VZ version with 326 PS and 545 Nm is genuine electric sports car. 5.6 s to 100, sporty DCC suspension and Performance mode unleash full power. Electric motor torque available instantly, so accelerator response is lightning quick.

But even base 204 PS version is quick enough and pleasant for daily driving -- electric drivetrain ensures smooth and quiet city driving, with enough power for safe overtaking on highways.

CUPRA Born vs VW ID.3 -- what exactly differs?

This is one of the most common questions. Both cars are built on same MEB platform, have same batteries and similar specs. But differences are specific:

In short: Born is sporty and emotional -- aimed at those wanting electric car to feel special. ID.3 is practical and neutral, aimed at those simply wanting economical electric car without extra ambitions. Price difference (new ~2,000 EUR, used ~3,000 EUR) isn't big, but Born will always be slightly pricier option.

Prices in Lithuania

New CUPRA Born:

Used CUPRA Born (2022--2024):

Used Born models in Lithuania are increasing -- some come from Germany and Scandinavia where CUPRA was popular from start. Many Born were also used as company cars with leasing -- after 2--3 years they return to market in good condition. If interested in electric car -- check our electric cars service page.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Sporty driving feel -- best-to-drive electric car in its class
• 77 kWh battery with up to 548 km range (WLTP) -- sufficient for most needs
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD) provides sportier behavior than front-wheel drive
• Fast DC charging up to 135 kW -- 36 min from 10 to 80%
• Bold design with CUPRA identity, noticed on road
• V2G and V2L technologies -- preparation for future
• VW Group parts availability and service network

Disadvantages:

• Rear-wheel drive only -- no AWD option. In winter need good winter tires (with them sufficient)
• Rear seat and boot (385 l) could be more spacious -- not most practical car for large family
• Infotainment system -- though better than ID.3, still has VW Group "slowness" issue in some situations
• Winter range significantly drops -- with 58 kWh battery winter Lithuania can be inconvenient
• New Born price higher than some competitors (e.g., MG4)

CUPRA Leon -- Sporty Compact

CUPRA Leon is classic hot hatch with modern interpretation, built on VW Golf MQB Evo platform. If Golf GTI is "rational sports car", then CUPRA Leon is "louder throughout" -- more power, more aggressive design and clearer sports orientation.

Leon offered both as hatchback and Sportstourer (estate) -- huge advantage for families wanting sporty car but unwilling to sacrifice practicality. Sportstourer version is one of few sporty estates on market, where this body type is rapidly disappearing.

Engine range

CUPRA Leon VZ -- true sports compact

CUPRA Leon VZ (Veloz -- "fast" in Spanish) is flagship Leon version, directly competing with VW Golf GTI Clubsport, Golf R and BMW 128ti.

300 PS version with 4Drive -- what you get:

• 2.0 TSI EA888 evo engine -- one of best turbocharged four-cylinders in world
• 4Drive all-wheel drive with Haldex coupling -- excellent grip in all conditions
• Akebono or Brembo sports brakes (depending on version)
• Adaptive DCC dampers -- electronically controlled suspension stiffness
• Progressive steering -- more precise in corners, more comfortable in city
• 0--100 km/h in 5.6 s (with Launch Control -- up to 5.2 s)
• 250 km/h top speed
• Sports exhaust sound with CUPRA mode

VZ 245 PS version with front-wheel drive also excellent alternative -- lighter, somewhat more economical and still very fast (6.3 s to 100). Suits those not necessarily wanting AWD but wanting sports character.

Sportstourer -- sporty estate

CUPRA Leon Sportstourer is one of few sporty estates on market. With 620 l boot (1,450 l with seats folded) this is genuinely practical -- you can carry family, dog and ski equipment, and when family stays home -- enjoy 300 PS on twisty road.

Important: Sportstourer costs only ~2,000 EUR more than hatchback, and boot volume difference is 240 liters. This is one of best "price per liter of space" deals in car market. If choosing between hatchback and estate -- estate almost always better choice.

CUPRA Leon VZ vs VW Golf GTI -- direct comparison

Analysis: CUPRA Leon VZ and Golf GTI Clubsport are technical cousins with same power, but CUPRA has AWD, Golf GTI doesn't. This significant advantage in Lithuanian winters and on wet roads. Golf R is more powerful (333 PS vs 300 PS), but costs 4,000 EUR more. CUPRA Leon VZ offers best combination of power, safety and practicality in this trio -- especially if you value AWD and estate option.

Important: Golf GTI and Golf R have slightly better resale value in Lithuania (Golf name stronger), but CUPRA Leon still holds well.

Prices in Lithuania

New CUPRA Leon:

Used CUPRA Leon (2020--2024):

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Excellent driving feel -- one of best hot hatch / sport compact on market
• VZ 300 PS with 4Drive -- AWD safety feel for Lithuanian winters and all-weather conditions
• Sportstourer version with 620 l boot -- sporty but practical (rarely combined)
• e-HYBRID version with ~55 km electric range for daily savings
• Aggressive design with CUPRA identity
• VW Group reliability and parts availability
• 245 PS FWD version -- perfect balance point between power and price

Disadvantages:

• VZ 300 PS price close to Golf R -- and Golf R has 33 PS more power
• Base 1.5 TSI 150 PS might feel underpowered for sports