Cupra’s latest entry into the family SUV market promises to break away from the ordinary offerings that dominate this space. The Tavascan aims to inject Spanish flair into a segment often criticized for its conservative approach to design and performance.
The SUV landscape in 2025 has been flooded with value-focused models from Chinese manufacturers. The Changan Deepal S07, Leapmotor C10, and Skywell BE11 have all attempted to challenge the Tesla Model Y’s dominance with competitive pricing but limited character.
The Cupra Tavascan takes a different approach – building on proven hardware while adding distinctive styling and performance elements.
Testing was conducted with a European-specification model during an extended drive through Switzerland. UK specifications remain largely identical aside from minor trim differences.
Interior Design and Technology
The Tavascan shares its platform with the Volkswagen ID.5 and Skoda Enyaq Coupe. Despite this common foundation, Cupra has created something that feels entirely different inside the cabin.
The dashboard features a distinctive stingray-inspired shape. Copper-colored air vents and carefully positioned ambient lighting create an atmosphere that’s far removed from its German and Czech relatives.
The snakeskin-effect lower dashboard curves elegantly down to meet the center console. This design choice echoes the Cupra logo’s shape while creating visual interest – though it does make accessing the bottom storage compartment slightly more challenging.
Front seat occupants enjoy generous space and extensive adjustability options. Rear passengers benefit from ample legroom even when seated behind tall drivers. The sloping roofline does create a more enclosed feeling for rear passengers, particularly adults.
Boot space measures 540 liters behind the rear seats.
Technology centers around VW Group’s familiar setup. A 5-inch instrument panel pairs with a 15-inch main touchscreen that’s shared across the platform. The interface offers responsive performance, clear graphics, and extensive customization options that outperform many competitors.
Physical climate controls are absent, but the touchscreen alternatives remain easily accessible and permanently visible. Driver assistance systems can be quickly disabled through dedicated shortcut keys. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard alongside connected services.
Performance and Driving Experience
Cupra positions itself as VW Group’s performance brand. The Tavascan lineup reflects this philosophy by skipping lower-powered drivetrain options available on platform siblings.
The entry-level model produces 282bhp through a rear-wheel-drive setup. Above this sits the all-wheel-drive variant tested here, generating 335bhp and 402lb ft of torque.
The dual-motor configuration delivers impressive acceleration. Zero to 62mph takes just 5.5 seconds, with power delivered smoothly and without drama through the AWD system.
Power delivery remains consistent and refined up to highway speeds. A predictive regenerative braking function uses GPS data and road signs to automatically adjust braking force – though drivers can easily override this with pedal input.
Cupra limits regenerative braking to just two selectable levels, which feels restrictive compared to some competitors.
The Tavascan prioritizes comfort and composure over outright sportiness. Its size and weight prevent the nimble handling found in other Cupra models, but the SUV excels at long-distance cruising with excellent ride quality and road manners.
Body control remains well-managed despite the smooth ride, allowing confident family transport without sacrificing comfort.
Range and Efficiency
Every Tavascan uses a 77kWh battery pack. The dual-motor VZ model offers up to 320 miles of range with charging speeds reaching 135kW.
Official consumption figures quote 3.7 miles per kWh. During 530 miles of mixed driving including motorways, A-roads, and Alpine passes, the test vehicle achieved exactly this figure – impressive performance for a large AWD SUV on winter tires.
Pricing and Equipment
UK pricing starts at £47,350 for single-motor models. The dual-motor VZ1 specification tested here begins at £55,945.
This represents a premium over equivalent Skoda, Volkswagen, or Ford Capri models. However, the AWD model includes comprehensive standard equipment:
- Heated front seats
- Powered tailgate
- Keyless entry and start
- Three-zone climate control
- Matrix LED headlights
- 21-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof
- Leather upholstery
- Head-up display
The Tavascan succeeds in differentiating itself within a crowded SUV market. While pricing sits above some competitors, the combination of distinctive design, strong performance, and comprehensive equipment creates a compelling package for families seeking something beyond the ordinary.
It’s positioning as a more characterful alternative to mainstream electric SUVs feels genuine rather than forced.
Cupra Tavascan VZ1 Specifications:
- Price: £55,945
- Powertrain: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive
- Battery: 77kWh
- Power: 335bhp
- Torque: 402lb ft
- Top speed: 112mph
- 0-62mph: 5.5 seconds
- Range: 320 miles
- Efficiency: 3.7 miles/kWh
- Charging: Up to 135kW
