Cupra Tavascan Makes Public Debut at Munich Motor Show
Cupra, the performance brand of Seat, has unveiled its latest offering, the Cupra Tavascan, at the Munich motor show. This sharply-styled coupe-SUV represents the brand’s “dream” and will inform future models. The Tavascan will go on sale next year and is set to strengthen Cupra’s breakaway success from its sister brand Seat.
The Cupra Tavascan is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform and builds on Cupra’s sporty credentials. It will be available in two variants: a top-rung 335bhp, 501lb ft, dual-motor, four-wheel-drive model, and a less powerful 282bhp single-motor variant. This positions it alongside competitors such as the entry-level Tesla Model Y RWD and the top-spec Audi Q4 E-tron Performance.
Powering the Tavascan is an 82kWh (77kWh usable) battery, which is the same as the one used in the ID 5. It offers a range of 341 miles in its most economical form, making it a competitive option in the electric SUV market. The Tavascan will share a production line with the ID 5 at the group’s Anhui factory in China.
The interior of the Tavascan features a major premium uplift compared to Cupra’s other models, the Cupra Born and Cupra Forementor. It boasts gold trim, flecked lighting, and a central ‘spine’ that mirrors the car’s front end. The SUV also comes with a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and a Sennheiser speaker system.
The design of the Tavascan closely resembles the concept that previewed its design in 2019. It features a sharp, angular front end with a large grille and a distinctive three-triangle light signature. The coupe-like roofline and the rear light bar add to its bold look. Cupra intends to carry over these design cues to future models, including the upcoming Terramar hybrid SUV and UrbanRebel city EV.
Cupra’s CEO, Wayne Griffiths, emphasized that the brand is not focused on purely rational electric cars. Instead, Cupra aims to offer fun and sexy electric vehicles with great design and unique sportiness. The Tavascan represents this vision becoming a reality.
The Tavascan is expected to play a vital role in Cupra’s plans, as investment in the brand is set to ramp up. Volkswagen Group boss, Thomas Schäfer, believes that Cupra has far more earning potential than Seat. This could mean a shift in focus towards Cupra and a potential goodbye to Seat.
Cupra hopes that the bold look of the Tavascan will attract buyers away from competitors such as the Audi Q4 E-tron, Genesis GV60, and Tesla Model Y. With a price range of £40,000-55,000, the Tavascan is expected to compete directly with these premium electric SUVs.
The Tavascan is set to arrive in late 2024, a few months after left-hand-drive models enter Europe next summer. This timing allows Volkswagen Group to make a strong push in the premium EV segment, where it already offers the Volkswagen ID 5. The Tavascan shares noticeable visual cues with the ID 5, especially when viewed from the side.
In conclusion, the Cupra Tavascan is an exciting addition to the electric SUV market. With its sporty credentials, premium interior, and bold design, it has the potential to attract buyers looking for a unique and exciting electric vehicle. Cupra’s focus on fun and sexy electric cars sets it apart from the competition, and the Tavascan represents the brand’s commitment to this vision. As Cupra’s investment ramps up, we can expect more innovative and exciting models in the future.