Cupra Terramar (2024) Review: The Spanish SUV with German Roots

The Cupra Terramar, a recent addition to Cupra’s lineup, has stirred excitement among automotive enthusiasts. This sporty SUV combines the performance of a compact crossover with the practicality of a family vehicle. But how does it fare against its German counterpart, the Volkswagen Tiguan, on which it is based? Let’s explore the Cupra Terramar in detail, from its design and performance to the technology it offers.

A Spanish Influence: Heritage and Design

Crowned as the hot, sporty sibling of the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Cupra Terramar finds its lineage in Spain. Founded in 2018, Cupra echoes the essence of its Catalonian roots at the Terramar circuit near Sitges, originally a racing venue opened in 1923. Although it shares many components with the Tiguan, the Terramar presents itself with an assertive aesthetic, designed to captivate those looking for something distinct and spirited.

The vehicle’s design is characterized by its aggressive stance with large air intakes, a prominent grille, and angular headlights, which give it a fierce appearance. The inclusion of unique daytime running lights that echo the brand’s identity is a visual treat that distinguishes it from the understated aesthetics of its Volkswagen cousin.

Dimensions and Practicality

The Cupra Terramar measures 4.51 meters in length, slightly shorter than the Tiguan at 4.53 meters. With a wheelbase of 2.68 meters (compared to the Tiguan’s 2.67 meters), the Terramar provides a spacious interior while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for urban driving.

Versatility remains a key strength of the Cupra Terramar. Its rear seats offer ample legroom, and the boot space is practical for family activities or weekend getaways.

Powertrain Options: Performance Meets Efficiency

The Cupra Terramar boasts a variety of powertrain options. The 1.5 TSI e-Hybrid variant driven in our review showcases the blend of performance and efficiency that appeals to eco-conscious buyers. The Terramar’s electric range of 120 kilometers (WLTP) establishes it as one of the leading plug-in hybrids in its class.

This powertrain features a 20 kWh net battery that can be charged from 10% to 80% in just half an hour using a fast charger (up to 50 kW). As we tested, the charging port conveniently positioned at the front left is a glance-worthy feature of a modern SUV.

Performance Insights

Under the hood, the Cupra Terramar can deliver a heart-pounding performance, especially when equipped with the 272 hp VZ variant. This model features dynamic chassis control and a dedicated driving mode that enhances sporty handling.

The Driving Experience

Driving the Cupra Terramar, you are met with a well-balanced experience that offers a mix of comfort and performance. In standard mode, it feels refined and smooth, akin to the Tiguan. However, switch to sport mode and the dynamics sharpen considerably. The steering is more direct, and the suspension feels firmer, though it is important to note that it still prioritizes comfort over outright sportiness.

Interior Features: High-Tech Meets Comfort

Step inside the Cupra Terramar, and you’ll find a driver-centric layout that is both modern and functional. The 12.9-inch touchscreen display dominates the dashboard, showcasing an intuitive interface for infotainment and vehicle settings. Climate controls are smartly designed with sliders that double as buttons, but many drivers may still prefer traditional rotary knobs for ease of use.

The bucket seats provide excellent ergonomics and support, tailored for spirited driving without sacrificing comfort. Copper accents throughout the cabin add a touch of elegance and sportiness that aligns with Cupra’s branding.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Terramar is equipped with the latest infotainment technologies, including smartphone integration options for a seamless connection with your devices. With features like sat-nav and high-end audio, the television remains a highlight of the driving experience.

What Could be Improved?

Despite its strengths, there are areas where the Cupra Terramar could improve. While it boasts impressive dynamics in sport mode, some drivers may find that it falls short of the hardcore driving experience suggested by its wild visuals. The sporty driving mode does provide a more engaging driving experience, but power transfer to the front wheels can struggle during hard acceleration, leading to a search for grip on dry roads.

To improve the driving experience, a slight refinement of the six-speed automatic transmission would enhance responsiveness. More notably, while the engine noise generated is exhilarating, one cannot help but notice the synthetic nature behind it—much like elements in a blockbuster movie.

Practicality and Usability

From a practicality standpoint, the Terramar offers a user-friendly experience. However, the rear seatback folding mechanism could be more intuitive; only the narrow middle section can be lowered from the boot without accessing the door. Features like this may detract from the overall usability of the vehicle, especially for those who frequently transport larger items.

Pricing and Value

Priced at £48,990, the Cupra Terramar positions itself above the Formentor but still offers competitive value given its performance and features. For comparison, the Formentor with plug-in hybrid capabilities starts at £44,990, while the fully electric Tavascan further expands Cupra’s electrified lineup.

For those who choose the entry-level 204 hp hybrid version, the price remains attractive. Meanwhile, the Tiguan plug-in hybrid fits into the range of £50,990, making the Terramar the more economical choice without sacrificing performance features such as larger alloy wheels and sportier styling.

Final Thoughts: A Step Forward for Cupra

In conclusion, the Cupra Terramar encapsulates a harmonious blend of sportiness, practicality, and efficiency, appealing to a broad audience. While it may not deliver the raw performance one would expect from its aesthetic, it ensures a joyful driving experience characterized by versatility and comfort.

Cupra has successfully positioned the Terramar as a compelling option for SUV buyers, and its distinctive flair offers an alternative to more traditional offerings. With a growing lineup, including the exciting Cupra Raval on the horizon, Cupra appears poised to continue its evolution as a brand committed to blending dynamic performance with the comforts of modern driving.

In summary, for those seeking a sportier SUV that stands out from the crowd—without forgoing the practicalities of everyday life—the Cupra Terramar certainly merits consideration. As it stands, this stylish SUV represents not just a breakthrough for Cupra, but a significant contender within the hybrid SUV segment.

Captions for images are sourced from websites with a free-use license.