With Such a Different Approach: The Cupra Terramar Unveiled

Six years after transforming from a high-performance variant name into an independent brand, Volkswagen can now look back with satisfaction at Cupra’s journey. The beginning was somewhat hesitant, with quite a few skeptical looks and raised eyebrows directed at cars that were essentially just Seat models with a different logo on the hood. Things began to change with the introduction of the Formentor, followed by the presentation of separate models like the Born, Rebel, and Tavascan. True, the core components came from Volkswagen's inventory, but the delivery was entirely different. And sales took off: in 2023, 230,000 Cupra models were sold, a 35% increase.

The Terramar, named after an oval racetrack on the outskirts of Barcelona (which we have visited in the past), is a mid-size crossover based on the current Volkswagen Tiguan, which has already arrived in Israel and was recently tested here for the first time. The wheelbase measures 2.68 meters, and the overall length is 4.52 meters.

The exterior design aligns with Cupra’s sharp front end, also adopted by the Leon in its latest facelift. Overall, it resembles the concept model previously showcased by the manufacturer. Inside, there is a 10.25-inch digital dashboard and a 12.9-inch touchscreen. From the images, it appears that the multimedia system is controlled entirely from the screen, without the rotary dial that has already been integrated into the new Tiguan. At least the volume touchpad is illuminated. The general atmosphere is sporty, with deep seats, a high console that creates separation between the front occupants, a gear selector on the steering column, and a steering wheel with a start button and driving mode selector.

Cupra's promise to be a sporty brand for driving enthusiasts is less evident in the basic 1.5-liter engine with 150 horsepower and front-wheel drive, or the 2.0-liter engine with 204 horsepower and all-wheel drive. It starts to sound more interesting with the more powerful version of this engine – 265 horsepower in the VZ version. The 2.0-liter engine will also be available in a plug-in hybrid version with 204 horsepower or an upgraded version with 272 horsepower, promising an electric range of up to 100 km. All engines are paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. At this stage, official performance figures have not been released.

Cupra is aiming for a more engaging driving experience with a 10 mm lower ride height compared to other models based on the same platform, the new generation of dynamic chassis control (DCC) with an added second valve to the adaptive dampers, and a multi-link rear suspension configuration.

The model is expected to arrive in Israel in the second half of 2025. It is anticipated to be more expensive than its twin, the Tiguan, but significantly cheaper than the upcoming Audi Q3, which will share many components with it, as well as competitors like the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA.