Electrification and performance are the perfect match, and the challenger brand takes it to the next level with its CUPRA Tavascan.
Underpinned by the Volkswagen Group’s MEB architecture, the modular electric drive matrix is designed specifically to give engineers a starting point to deliver the best handling vehicle possible. And the CUPRA Tavascan development team in Barcelona (Martorell) have used the toolkit to do so.
Building blocks for success
The robust chassis uses well-known technologies as a baseline for ride and handling performance. The front MacPherson struts and the advanced multi-link rear design have been tuned to make sure that the Tavascan provides smooth and intuitive feedback to steering inputs whether driving at highway speeds or covering ground on smaller, more technical roads.
The battery is positioned centrally between the axles meaning weight distribution is managed exactly; in the CUPRA Tavascan it’s about 50% (49:51) and the weight is slung low helping shift the centre of gravity down, improving agility.
The CUPRA Tavascan’s progressive steering puts the driver in complete control, aided by the brake actuation and feel, helping the SUV coupe to feel assured in any condition.
Adapted to the driver
Add to this the ESC – which can be configured in sport setup (ESC OFF)- as well as the chassis tunability thanks to its Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) Sport system and the CUPRA Tavascan is an SUV coupe that is able to adapt to the driving style of whoever is behind the wheel no matter what the journey.
But it isn’t purely achieved through advanced driver systems. Road feel is also delivered through the CUPRA Tavascan’s wheels. The SUV coupe has a range of 19”, 20” and 21” options to generate as much feedback between the road and the driver as possible, aided by the performance tyres (when equipped with 21’’ forged alloy wheels): it wears 255mm wide rubber at both the front and rear (19’’: 235mm front, 255mm rear).
The CUPRA Tavascan balances its dynamic ability with practicality, showcased by the vehicle’s dimensions; it’s 4,644mm long, 1,861mm wide, 1,597mm high and has a wheelbase of 2,766mm.