Cupra Tavascan is a sportier VW ID.5

Cupra presented the Tavascan as a concept car way back in 2019, so it’s taken some time to arrive at the production model you see here that will be on the roads in 2024. 

You can think of it as a more flamboyant alternative to the Volkswagen ID.5 and the Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe. To that end, among the Tavascan's most important tasks is to setting the stall out for Cupra’s new design language. Cupra says that it showcases a ‘fierce and mysterious’ look, the focal point being the new triple-triangle LED lighting signature feeding into a front end defined by a large front grille and an angular lower apron emblazoned with bronze detailing. 

Taken in profile, the Tavascan is a coupe-SUV exhibiting a sleek and aerodynamic shape. Wheels up to 21-inches in size will be available, with aerodynamic covers. At the back, a similar three-triangle motif is embedded into the full-width LED taillight that stretches across the rear of the car. 

It’s the interior that feels more groundbreaking though. Cupra seems to have successfully broken free of the mold set by other MEB-platformed SUVs with an opulent design featuring a central ‘spine’ running from the dashboard. Sitting on top is a 15-inch central touchscreen system, as well as digital instrumentation. More bronze detailing picks out the shape of the unconventional looking dashboard, while a pair of sports seats sit up front too. 

Powering the Tavascan is a 77kWh battery, which is offered in both the ‘Endurance’ and VZ versions of the car. The Endurance model is the single-motor long-range variant, utilising a 286PS (210kW) motor with 545Nm of torque. Maximum range is claimed as 341 miles. 

But, for those wanting a bit of performance, the VZ version stands out. This dual motor option adds a second motor on the front axle, for a combined maximum output of 340PS (250kW). With the added power and traction, 0-62mph takes just 5.6 seconds, while Cupra claims a range of 321 miles on a full battery. Drivers can flick through the various drive modes – Range, Comfort, Performance, Cupra, Individual or Traction - to find a balance between range and performance as they see fit. 

As for charging, like other MEB SUVs, the Cupra Tavascan has a maximum DC rapid charging rate of 135kW. A 10-80% recharge can take place in under half an hour, at a charging point powerful enough.