New Cupra Tavascan EV breaks cover

Spanish performance brand Cupra has announced it will bolster its fledgling line-up – and electric car model range – in Australia with the introduction of the all-new 2024 Cupra Tavascan.

To be launched in Europe late in 2024 ahead of an Australian launch the following year, the all-new Cupra Tavascan was unveiled in production form overnight, three years after a dramatic concept of the same name debuted at the 2019 Frankfurt motor show.

It emerged at an event where Cupra also presented the forthcoming 2024 Cupra Terramar SUV and 2025 Cupra UrbanRebel crossover.

Based on the same Volkswagen Group MEB architecture that was created for pure-electric vehicles, the Tavascan – a mid-size battery-electric coupe-style SUV – is believed to share much with the latest Volkswagen ID.5 GTX, including its 77kWh battery and 225kW dual-motor electric powertrain.

The Volkswagen ID.5 and related ID.4 are poised to launch next year as the German brand’s long-awaited first electric vehicles for Australia.

Once the Cupra Tavascan is launched, other less powerful options will also be offered, including a rear-drive single-motor version that will produce around 150kW and, with the biggest battery, should provide a range that could top 500km.

Like the new Cupra UrbanRebel and Cupra Terramar, the Tavascan adopts the Spanish high-performance brand’s new trademark shark-nose frontal styling, gloss black A- and B-pillars and lower door finisher that all contribute to a sleeker, more athletic side profile.

Towards the rear there’s a coupe-like rakish rear profile and pronounced rear wheel-arches for a sportier stance.

As well as featuring a striking design, clever aero like a pair of S-duct vents that lead through the front nose section and out the bonnet, plus careful air management around the front-end, should boost efficiency and increase range.

Inside, the drama continues with yet more design flourishes introduced to the battery-electric SUV’s cabin, including a central spine rising up from the floor to the large 12.0-inch infotainment system.

When it arrives in 2025 in the Australian market, the Cupra Tavascan is expected to face stiff competition from not only the Volkswagen ID.5 but also the related Skoda Enyaq and other all-new EVs including the Nissan Ariya.

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