Cupra, the Spanish-based electric and high-performance brand, is expanding the line-up of the sleek Tavascan electric SUV with a new entry-level model and a revised cabin.
What's the new entry-level Tavascan like?
While the new, most affordable Tavascan keeps the same handsome looks as the pricier models, it does get a smaller battery. The 58kWh battery pack gives you a WLTP range of up to 435km, and it can be fast-charged from 10-80 per cent in around 26 minutes. That smaller battery is paired with a 190hp rear-drive electric motor. The 286hp Endurance and the 340hp VZ keep their existing motors and 77kWh battery pack.
What about the new interior?
The Cupra Tavascan's infotainment and instruments have been totally updated, and the biggest visual change is the swapping out of the old 5.3-inch instrument screen - mounted behind the steering wheel - for a much more visually striking 10.25-inch screen, which gives the driver much more information, and more customisation options when it comes to the layout and graphics.
The big 12.9-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash also gets new software, which is now based on Android architecture, and that means a more intuitive smartphone-like interface, as well as the addition of an app store so that you can download more apps and further customise your in-car experience.
Hang on, why are the air vents moving?
Well spotted! The Tavascan now comes with active electric cabin vents that can move and adjust their flow according to how many people are in the car, the temperature required, and even the position of the sun (on those rare sunny days…). You can even tell the vents what to do using voice control.
If that all sounds a bit too high-tech, Cupra has - thankfully - listened to its customers and given the Tavascan a new steering wheel which features physical buttons instead of the slightly fiddly haptic pads it used to have.
Any more new tech?
Yes, there's also now the ability to use your phone as the Tavascan's key - which also means you can share the key digitally with other people if you need to - and there's V2L (Vehicle To Load) functionality for the Tavascan's battery, allowing it to become a mobile power bank for other electrical devices, or even your home.
Does the new Tavascan drive any differently?
You'll certainly notice some changes. The higher-power models, with the 77kWh battery, now get launch control for the ultimate in rapid getaways, and there's now a one-pedal braking system, which can bring the Tavascan to a complete stop in city traffic.
If you like your tunes, there's an upgrade to the Sennheiser 12-speaker stereo, which features 'Concerto immersive technology' for better sound quality, and the Tavascan can now also be had in a new colour - Dark Void, a deep purple that rather nicely sets off the copper-coloured exterior highlights.
When can I have one?
Soon. Irish arrival dates and prices for the updated Tavascan are still being set, and we'll update this piece when we know all the details.