CUPRA has revealed details and images of the Tavascan, the SEAT spin-off's first ever all-electric SUV.
Essentially a very slightly tamed looking version of their 2019 Cupra Tavascan concept vehicle, the production model will arrive next year as a stylish scowl-faced SUV coupe to become the car-maker's second fully electric model after its best-selling Born hatchback.
Featuring cues alledgedly inspired by the Cupra Tavascan XE racing concept, the Tavascan’s new ‘styling language’ - a signature three-triangle ‘eye’ headlight configuration, illuminated Cupra bonnet badge and distinctive patterned front grille - are set to become staples of its future electric models.
Cupra describes its new arrival as an 'SUV coupe' and, to be fair, they have apparently committed to ensuring it has the performance and handling to match its aggressive looks: the Tavascan features Dynamic Chassis Control Sport technology, sports suspension and progressive steering to take full advantage of the car’s low-slung 49:51 weight distribution, plus performance tyres mounted on 21-inch forged alloy wheels (though smaller rims are also available).
Based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, the Tavascan will be available with two power outputs: the 340hp range-topping VZ model will be the most powerful EV to utilise the MEB platform thus far (its sporty VW cousin the ID5 GTX only packs 295hp), an all-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with twin electric motors and 501lb ft of torque which can zip from 0-62mph in just 5.6 seconds, while a single motor-propelled Endurance-badged variant offering 286hp and rear-wheel-drive will also be available.
Four driver-selectable levels of regenerative braking will be available on both, and the Tavascan’s electric range is expected to be around 342 miles WLTP courtesy of a 77kWh battery pack. Drivers can top-up an additional 62 miles of range in just seven minutes using a 135kW charging point, via which a 10 per cent to 80 per cent re-charge will be possible in approximately 30 minutes.
Inside, the Tavascan’s interior is based around a central spine which unites the ‘floating’ centre console with the car’s dashboard. Passengers will enjoy sporty bucket seats in a choice of textile or microfibre finish, both incorporating recycled materials, plus the car-maker’s largest ever infotainment system screen: a 15-inch touchscreen with a newly designed user-friendly Human Machine Interface.
The Tavascan will also feature the debut of Cupra’s new 12-speaker audio system developed in collaboration with Sennheiser, while on a more practical level, the car has a generous 540 litres of boot space and a rear hatch which can be opened using a ‘virtual’ pedal.
“Back when we presented the Tavascan concept at the IAA in Frankfurt 2019, it was our dream car – a manifesto for everything we wanted Cupra to become,” says Cupra CEO Wayne Griffiths.
“Since then, we’ve kept believing that if we dream it, we can create it. Well, today, that dream comes true.”
Designed and developed in Barcelona, the Cupra Tavascan will be produced at the Volkswagen Group’s Anhui factory in China for launch in 2024. Cupra’s new hybrid Terramar SUV will launch as their final non-electric vehicle next year, while a new compact electric city car nicknamed the UrbanRebel is set to follow in 2025.
Cupra Tavascan specifications
- Drivetrain: 77kWh battery, dual electric motors with all-wheel-drive (VZ) / single electric motor with rear-wheel-drive (Endurance)
- Max power: 340hp / 501lb ft (VZ)
- 0-62mph: 5.6 seconds (VZ)
- Max range: 342 miles WLTP
