Bruderkampf der SUVs: Cupra Terramar trifft auf VW Tiguan – Ein Vergleich der 2024er Modelle

Comparison of Cupra Terramar (2024) and VW Tiguan: Sibling Rivalry

How similar are these two compact SUVs from the Volkswagen Group?

It's always surprising to see the range of vehicles that the Volkswagen Group manages to produce from its platforms. Consider the MQB Evo platform: it's the foundation for the latest VW Tiguan, the refreshed Skoda Kodiaq, and now the Cupra Terramar as well, which is set to be manufactured in Hungary alongside the upcoming Audi Q3.

We're taking the chance to closely examine both the Cupra Terramar and the VW Tiguan. An initial comparison aims to highlight the similarities and differences. You can view detailed images of both cars in this gallery:

Photo Gallery: Comparison of Cupra Terramar (2024) and VW Tiguan (2024)

Appearance/Size

While both model names start with the letter 'T', that's about where the similarities end. The Cupra Terramar adopts a sporty exterior, notable for a front end reminiscent of a Porsche, complete with what could be described as a shark's nose. On the other hand, the VW Tiguan maintains a more practical design approach in its third iteration, bearing resemblance to the latest Passat Variant and the T-Cross, particularly at the rear.

The 2024 model of the Cupra Terramar

2024 Model of Volkswagen Tiguan

The similarities in the sheet metal edges on the rear side panels and the lateral window line are quite intriguing. Moving on to the concrete details regarding dimensions. It's also essential to consider the towing and nose weight specifications, as these types of SUVs are often used for hauling caravans or carrying bikes on the rear.

Observations indicate that while the dimensions are largely comparable, the Cupra stands out by being over six centimeters shorter in height compared to the VW, a difference that has a noticeable impact on the trunk capacity. The variance in the base measurements for the cargo space can be attributed to the type of propulsion system selected. A distinctive feature of the Terramar is that it sits ten millimeters lower than its corporate siblings.

Interior/Cockpit

Inside, both models feature a high level of digital technology: The Terramar offers a 10.25-inch digital dashboard, alongside a central 12.9-inch touchscreen. This includes a backlit scroll bar for adjusting climate and volume settings. Additionally, a head-up display that projects onto the windshield is available as an option.

Upcoming Cupra Terramar, slated for release in 2024

Upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan Model Set for 202

The Tiguan also features the mentioned scroll bar, but takes it up a notch with a central touchscreen that includes digital instruments in a horizontal tablet layout. There's a large infotainment screen measuring 32.8 cm diagonally (12.9 inches, with an option for 15.0 inches), featuring a fresh menu system and graphics. It also boasts a newly designed head-up display and a multifunctional driving experience switch that comes with an integrated TFT-LCD display. This switch allows for adjustments to driving modes and volume, but regrettably, it doesn't control the climate settings.

Engines/Powertrains

We noticed it right from the global launch of the Cupra: The Terramar will initially not be available with a diesel engine, which is a stark contrast to the VW Tiguan. Whether adjustments will be made to include a diesel option in the future is yet to be determined.

What does the initial engine lineup offer? It includes TSI, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. The lineup kicks off with a 48V petrol engine that delivers 110 kW (150 hp), has a 1.5 liter capacity, and is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission. This "eTSI" engine produces a maximum torque of 250 Nm, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 205 km/h.

Additionally, there are two TSI petrol engines, both paired with a 7-speed DSG and all-wheel drive: one producing 150 kW (204 hp) and the other 195 kW (265 hp) in the Terramar VZ. The latter boasts a peak torque of 400 Nm, can accelerate to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 243 km/h.

Model Release: Cupra Terramar, Scheduled for 2024

2024 Model of the Volkswagen Tiguan

Plug-in hybrid enthusiasts have the choice between two models: one with 150 kW (204 horsepower) and a higher-powered VZ variant with 200 kW (272 horsepower). These versions feature a 1.5 TSI engine paired with an electric motor, which is linked to a substantial battery pack boasting a net capacity of 19.7 kWh. This setup enables the new Cupra Terramar to cover over 100 km on pure electric power. The battery can be recharged on the go using up to 50 kW of direct current, or at home through a Wallbox at a rate of up to 11 kW.

The Tiguan offers a complete range of engine options: a 1.5 TSI engine available in either 130 or 150 horsepower, a 2.0 TSI engine with 265 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid option with either 204 or 272 horsepower, and two diesel engines with 150 and 193 horsepower respectively. The most powerful petrol and diesel variants come factory-equipped with all-wheel drive, as does the Cupra's 2.0 TSI engine. Here's a summary of all the available powertrains, and it's worth noting that none of them come with a manual transmission anymore.

Pricing

The sky's the limit when it comes to prices. The special "America's Cup" edition of the Terramar almost reaches the €60,000 threshold, and the Tiguan is priced similarly. However, for comparison purposes, let's consider the base model of the Cupra: in Germany, it's priced at €43,020 for the 1.5 eTSI with 150 horsepower. The Tiguan, equipped with the same engine, is slightly less expensive at €41,655, but it does not include sport seats as a standard feature.

What the competition offers:

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