Cupra Tavascan is Setting Future of Design for Cupra Brand

CUPRA, a subsidiary of Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT, has unveiled its latest vehicle, the Tavascan, a fully electric SUV coupé. The vehicle, initially introduced as a concept car at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, embodies the future design language of CUPRA.

Jorge Diez, CUPRA Design Director, and his team have navigated the complex process of turning a bold concept into a tangible product. Diez emphasized that the design approach aimed for uniqueness and identity rather than universal appeal.

The Tavascan is CUPRA's second 100% electric vehicle. The exterior design showcases a dark front mask, a V-shaped bonnet design, a three-triangle eye signature in the headlamp, and an illuminated logo, all of which contribute to the brand's distinctive identity.

The interior design introduces a central spine, a structural element that underpins the dashboard, and results in a distinctly styled interior. Combined with the ambient lighting, this approach to design serves to increase the perceived cabin space.

The Tavascan made its world debut in Berlin in April 2023. Diez reflected on the unveiling event as a culmination of years of hard work by the design team.

Since its establishment in 2018, CUPRA has positioned itself at the intersection of design innovation and electrification. With a record of over 150,000 vehicles delivered in 2022, the brand has demonstrated the viability of combining electrification and performance. The Tavascan launch is the latest step in CUPRA's ongoing exploration of automotive design possibilities.

The Tavascan, slated for a 2024 release and expected in Australia by 2025, is an addition to the CUPRA lineup that also includes the Terramar mid-sized SUV and UrbanRebel electric hatch.

Maintaining elements of the original 2019 concept car, the Tavascan sports a distinctive look with its "shark nose" front, raked roofline, and polished black A-pillar. Other design highlights include Matrix LED lights and an illuminated CUPRA logo.

The Tavascan measures 4644mm long, 1861mm wide, and 1597mm high, with a 2766mm wheelbase. The SUV is built on the MEB architecture, common within the Volkswagen Group, and will be produced in Anhui, China.

In terms of power, the base Tavascan Endurance features a 210kW single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup, while the more advanced Tavascan VZ boasts a 250kW dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The Tavascan VZ reportedly hits 50km/h in 2.4 seconds and achieves 100km/h in 5.6 seconds.

CUPRA claims the Tavascan, equipped with a centrally placed 77kWh lithium-ion battery, has a range of around 550km. Charging times are also noteworthy, with the Tavascan purportedly gaining an extra 100km in seven minutes when connected to a 135kW charger.

The SUV features an adaptive suspension and progressive steering, with a choice of 19, 20, or 21-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Tavascan uses VW tech like a floating 15-inch infotainment system, a 5.3-inch digital cockpit, and a 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system.

CUPRA has emphasized the interior's "central spine" as an important feature contributing to a driver-centric experience. Other interior features include copper accents, ambient LED lighting, and sculpted bucket seats with two upholstery options: Textile, containing up to 90% recycled polyester, and Microfibre, with up to 50% recycled microfibre.

The Tavascan also offers several driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and a rear-view smart camera, alongside some features like remote-controlled assisted parking.