As a separate brand, Cupra presented its second all-electric model and at the same time the first electric SUV, the Tavascan. After last year’s announcement and concept, now all the details for the production Cupra Tavascan are known.
Tavascan arrives in an interesting and very original SUV Coupe form, with the fact that it shares the basic platform with electric Volkswagen models such as Volkswagen ID.5, Škoda Enyaq Coupe iV and Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback. Like these models, the Tavascan is based on the MEB platform, but has been designed and developed in Barcelona as an emotional, driving-oriented SUV.
Cupra’s first electric SUV is slightly longer, wider and lower than the VW ID.5, with a length of 4,644 mm, a width of 1,861 mm, a height of 1,597 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,766 mm.
Design-wise, the Cupra Tavascan is derived directly from the Tavascan concept model presented at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, although its design has been toned down for production. What is certain is that this design direction will be transferred to future electrified cars in the Cupra range.
In any case, the Tavascan is very original and attracts attention with numerous details, where the distinctive front part stands out with striking matrix LED headlights with a “signature” of three triangles, an illuminated Cupra logo and a massive lower mask. The side line with black A-pillars and two folds that descend towards the front is also very interesting, while the rear section with high-mounted taillights connected by a light strip and a large diffuser emphasizes the sporty attitude.
Inside, the Cupra Tavascan has a distinctive center section that supports the entire dashboard, thin air vents, and a multi-functional sports steering wheel. Inside, the large 15-inch central touchscreen – the largest ever in a Cupra model – is dominated by a newly designed and developed HMI, while the sports seats are completely new.
Cupra claims the passenger space has been optimized to provide “perfect comfort” both front and rear, and the Tavascan also offers smart storage options. The trunk has a volume of 540 liters, which is slightly more than the Q4 e-tron Sportback and slightly less than the Volkswagen ID.5 and Škoda Enyaq Coupe iV.
Tavascan integrates the latest technologies compatible with the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, including powertrain, chassis, connectivity, safety and convenience.
It will be available with two power outputs: 210 kW (281 hp) and 545 Nm of torque for the Tavascan Endurance single-engine front-wheel drive variant, while the more powerful option will have 335 hp and 679 Nm with all-wheel drive and two motors. That model will carry the recognizable Tavascan VZ label, and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.
Both variants are powered by a 77kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a WLTP range of 550km in the rear-wheel drive model, while the twin-motor and all-wheel drive model promises a range of 520km. To increase efficiency, the Cupra Tavascan also comes with five different levels of energy recovery and an optional heat pump.
When it’s time to charge the Tavascan can charge its battery from 10 to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes using a DC fast charger of at least 135 kW.
The Cupra Tavascan will be produced at the Volkswagen Group plant in Anhui, China, and will arrive on the market in 2024. Prices have not yet been announced.
