With the Terramar, Cupra is bridging the gap between its performance ambitions and a mainstream family brand. The compact SUV offers Volkswagen-Tiguan space and features in a package that is more appealing to people who prefer a less common design. The Terramar is offered with five powertrains, including ICE, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
Cupra has vowed to end combustion engine models, with the Terramar being the last of its fire-spitting breed. Having started its career as souped-up variants of SEAT hot hatches, Cupra is fighting for its own place on the market. Previous models, most based on SEAT cars, haven’t been very successful, although they have gained some fans thanks to being different. However, you can’t justify a brand for a small niche unless your name is Bugatti, of course.
The Cupra Terramar aims to bring the young Spanish brand into the mainstream with a more classic design and features that appeal to families. At 4,519 mm (177.9 inches) long, it’s slightly shorter than the Volkswagen Tiguan, even though both models share the same wheelbase (2,681 mm/105.6 inches). There’s plenty of space in the cabin and in the trunk, which offers 540 liters (19 cu-ft) or up to 630 liters (22.25 cu-ft) if you push the rear bench forward.
Based on Volkswagen’s MQB Evo architecture, the Cupra Terramar will be available with five different engines, including gas, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. The Terramar relies on a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission regardless of the engine. The power ranges from 148 horsepower for the base variant to 268 horsepower for the plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Photo: Cupra
The engine range starts with the 148-hp 1.5 eTSI mild-hybrid engine, which relies on a 48-volt starter-generator to provide assistance and increase efficiency. It has the ability to coast with the engine switched off in specific driving scenarios, recover energy under braking, and support the engine during acceleration.
Cupra wants to capitalize on the recent popularity of plug-in hybrids, and the Terramar offers impressive performance in this regard. The 19.7 kWh battery capacity allows it to drive up to 70 miles (100 km) on electric power. The maximum power available is 268 horsepower, although a 201-hp variant will also be offered. The battery can be charged from an AC charger at 11 kW or a DC charge at up to 50 kW.
Although the plug-in hybrids sound like a lethargic power source, Cupra promised that the Terramar would offer spirited driving sensations. The premium brand said it lowered the ride height by 10 mm compared to other models based on the MQB Evo platform. The front suspension geometry has been modified for an additional camber for a more engaging driving experience. The top-of-the-line VZ variants also get a special Cupra driving model and the option to disable electronic stability control.
The cabin offers a driver-oriented cockpit with a lower driving position and premium materials. The dashboard features a classic layout, with a smaller 10.25-inch screen as the digital instrument cluster in front of the driver and a larger 12.9-inch infotainment display above the center console. As with many current models produced by the Volkswagen Group’s brands, you’ll notice a lot of touch controls, but they are at least illuminated. Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, as is the 15-watt wireless charging pad with an integrated cooling system.
