Without a doubt, for the importer and dealers of CUPRA in Ukraine, the launch of the new CUPRA Terramar crossover is a very important event: potentially this car can become a bestseller for the brand. I hope it will happen. After all, this crossover really has many advantages and opportunities to attract buyers. And in general: I understand that for me personally, it was the CUPRA Terramar that became the best car that fell into my hands in the six months since the beginning of this year. Make yourself comfortable, now I will tell you everything in detail.
Design: fresh style, emotions in metal
It gives the impression that the CUPRA brand is currently searching for itself in terms of design. The first characteristic features have already been developed – this is the Shark Nose front end and numerous triangles in the headlights and taillights. However, if earlier these features had to be combined with the design that had already been pre-formed (and it turned out so-so…), then in the case of the CUPRA Terramar crossover we see a car that was originally drawn exactly like this. Finally, everything looks holistic and organic!
Finally, the headlights are successfully combined with the same “shark nose” membrane between them. Finally, everything is proportional to the large radiator grille, which is lowered down, but not sunken too much. Finally, the plump lights emphasize the similarly plump rear of the car. Moreover, there is still room for interesting details - for example, the characteristic triangles filling the optics or the wide rear roof pillar. And for the circularly outlined wheel arches and incredible wheels in general, special thanks. I just want to add real exhaust pipes. Since the rear bumper is now trying to imitate a diffuser - it looks cool, no doubt about it - but the real exhaust pipes are hidden somewhere below. And we are talking about CUPRA cars , which in their most “hot” versions of VZ (from the word Veloz, which in Spanish means speed) are usually decorated with a pair of double pipes.
The new CUPRA Terramar crossover is a typical representative of the modern C- SUV class; no more, but no less: length – 4.52 meters; width – 1.86 meters; height – 1.58 meters; wheelbase – 2.68 meters. Some may say that the car is small, some will perceive it as massive and muscular; but we somehow agreed with the CUPRA Terramar crossover in size, personally for me it is a kind of right - size: still small for easy maneuvering and parking; already large enough to provide a spacious interior. By the way, about the interior…
Similarly to the exterior: nothing revolutionary, many familiar solutions, but everything is done with imagination and in the original CUPRA style. The front panel seems to be composed of several layers of plastic of different textures and colors. And in one place, a cluster-window for the digital 10.25-inch instrument panel emerges from this panel; in another place, a ventilation deflector for the passenger appears; and in general, the entire front panel in the central part drops down and turns into a curved center console. There are many physical control buttons inside: a light switch, buttons on the steering wheel, several keys on the center console. By the way, it is the CUPRA Terramar crossover that explains why the engine start button should now be on the steering wheel - after all, the center console is designed in such a way that other buttons are marked there.
The large 12.9-inch display stands out as a separate tablet island, at its base are sensors for controlling the volume and temperature of the climate control; the latter are already backlit in the dark. And in general, a lot of attention has been paid to the visual perception of the interior. So, in addition to multi-colored materials and bronze-colored decor (although this is actually painted plastic), I would also like to note the contour lighting: not only thin strips on the front panel and doors, but also separate large-scale zones with colored backlighting that appear on the door cards. I would also like to mention the seats with integrated headrests. Thanks to the new shape, they do not pinch on the sides and do not require a slender youthful posture – at the same time they look surprisingly attractive and original.
However, here's what's interesting: in this riot of shapes, materials, textures, colors, and lighting, practicality hasn't really been lost. Large seat adjustment ranges, plenty of headroom, wireless charging, and large door pockets. But perhaps the best thing about the CUPRA Terramar crossover is the rear: there's plenty of space, the ability to adjust the backrest angle and move the second row forward/backward, and in addition to the armrest and ventilation deflectors, there's also a separate climate control zone for the convenience of rear passengers. I'd also like to note the small shelves at the base of the second row and the ability to order (optional, I'll talk about it below) rear heating. In addition, we can mention a fairly large trunk (volume 508-642 liters depending on the position of the rear seat) with an electric lid and numerous niches and hooks for bags. Is this CUPRA Terramar a crossover not only for the driver, but also for the family? Yes, imagine – that's exactly it!
In the CUPRA Terramar cabin, the driver and passengers are greeted by a combination of bold shapes, different textures and colors, advanced backlighting, comfortable front bucket seats, and a fairly spacious rear row with transformation capabilities. The details – a digital instrument panel, a multimedia system, a transmission control joystick under the steering wheel on the right, and an overloaded left shifter – are reminiscent of numerous modern VAG cars. However, in general, the interior looks very original and distinctive; at the same time, the car is surprisingly practical, it is a real family crossover.
Will there be enough space to comfortably accommodate people? The interior measurements will give the answer. Traditionally, we start from the front. The length of the driver's seat cushion is 50 cm, and the cushion has a clearly defined edge and generally supports the legs well. The distance from the edge of the cushion to the accelerator pedal is 47-70 cm, depending on the driver's seat adjustments. The maximum height clearance, from the seat cushion to the ceiling, is 101 cm (measured along the backrest and headrest, the seat is lowered as much as possible, the backrest is set at an angle of 105 degrees).
In the back, leg/knee room ranges from 60-84 cm (from the base of the rear sofa to the back of the front seat, depending on the adjustments and position of the front seat, the second-row sofa was pushed back as far as possible). Head/torso height is 94 cm (measured from the base of the rear seat to the ceiling, along the backrest and headrest, the backrest angle is about 105 degrees).
Finally, the trunk measurements. The trunk width between the wheel arches is 100 cm; I did not take into account the side niches, since they are separate. Next: the trunk depth is 91 cm (in the standard position of the rear sofa, when the backs of the rear row are raised), or about 150 cm (when the second row seats are folded, measuring along the folded back of the second row), or a maximum of 173 cm (when the second row seats are folded, measuring up to the back of the first row seat).
Interior measurements are already becoming a good tradition of detailed car reviews – and over time it will be possible to compare the CUPRA Terramar crossover with other cars in its class. However, I can already say that the CUPRA Terramar, although not impressive in terms of space, definitely corresponds to the status of a family crossover.
Technology: MQB Evo platform, powerful turbo engine, waiting for hybrids
To describe the CUPRA Terramar, I will mention two cars that have already been reviewed in detail – the Volkswagen Tiguan and the CUPRA Leon.
We use the first one as a basis for understanding the SUV format in general and as an example of the new MQB Evo platform: high-strength steels and lightweight construction, fully independent wheel suspensions (McPherson struts in front and multi-link rear), all-wheel drive with a splined connection. And we can also mention the "advanced" PHEV hybrids with an enlarged battery - now it should be enough for 100 km of range. By the way: such PHEV hybrids are already present in the European CUPRA Terramar range, and therefore it is not excluded that someday in the future they will also appear on the Ukrainian market. But I would like something else to appear in our engine range. The bottom line is that the new Volkswagen Tiguan received a very successful (in my opinion) 193-horsepower turbodiesel: quite economical, with good traction and quite powerful. Such a turbodiesel could perfectly complement the current character of the CUPRA Terramar: pleasantly dynamic and at the same time not devoid of practicality. Unfortunately, there is no diesel version in the European CUPRA Terramar range, and therefore it is unlikely that anyone will make such versions of the car specifically for the needs of the Ukrainian market.
Now for the second example. Based on the “hot hatchback” CUPRA Leon, we analyzed the gasoline 2-liter 4-cylinder TSI EA 888 series turbo engine; and under the hood of the CUPRA Terramar VZ test car, a similar one is installed! This is an engine with the code designation DNPB, which also has direct fuel injection and a turbine, but differs in a compression ratio of 9.6 (versus 9.3 in the case of the CUPRA Leon). By the way, I will immediately note that a version of the CUPRA Terramar is also offered with a similar gasoline engine 2.0 TSI with a capacity of 204 hp; however, it has the designation DNNE and a compression ratio of 12.2 - so I personally would not advise just “chipping” it to 265 hp. In both cases, both 2-liter turbo engines work with a robotic 7-speed DSG DQ 381 gearbox and 4 DRIVE all-wheel drive. In addition, we are promised the appearance of a 150-horsepower engine with mHEV hybrid technology and front-wheel drive.
Also, using the example of the CUPRA Leon, they analyzed the new multimedia system, the progressive steering mechanism, and even then the DCC suspension was mentioned. And here it is again: a suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers is exactly what I would like to add for the CUPRA Terramar! Again, precisely because the DCC suspension can positively influence and further expand the character of the car: make it stiffer during dynamic driving, but not deprive it of that wonderful comfort for ordinary daily trips. Moreover, unlike the desired TDI engine (which will probably remain a dream), in fact the DCC suspension is present in the list of equipment for the CUPRA Terramar in Europe – which means that it can also appear in Ukraine; well, at least theoretically.
Finally, here's another nuance about the suspension. In general, during the debut of the CUPRA Terramar, a sports suspension with a 10 mm reduction in ground clearance was announced for it – that is, it is logical for the "dynamic crossover" format and the brand's positioning in general. However, in the description of all trim levels (even VZ) for the Ukrainian market, I see a suspension labeled Comfort; there are no questions - looking ahead, I will note that comfort is really good. But according to the positioning of the model in particular and the brand in general, I want to have a more "assembled" suspension. And this issue can be solved in two ways: either give customers the opportunity to choose a suspension (sports or comfortable), or add a DCC suspension to the list of options (which will generally allow you to combine the first and second).
So, what is the CUPRA Terramar crossover as of now: it is the MQB Evo platform, a pair of 2-liter gasoline engines, mandatory all-wheel drive. And the nearest prospect is the appearance of a 150-horsepower version with 48-volt mHEV hybrid technology and front-wheel drive. Using the example of the CUPRA Leon, we have already disassembled the new multimedia system, the digital instrument panel is already familiar. Also, using the example of the CUPRA Leon, we have disassembled the 2-liter gasoline turbo engine in detail. However, a slightly different version of this engine is installed in the test car: we have 265 hp (5000-6500 rpm) of power and 400 Nm (1650-4350 rpm) of torque. All this promises us acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 243 km/h. Fuel consumption is claimed at 8.4-8.8 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. So…
Behind the wheel: impressive power, good comfort
Power, dynamics, speed – this is exactly what you expect from a CUPRA car ! The CUPRA Terramar crossover is truly Veloz, it is truly fast and dynamic. I will say even more: with the result of “going out” 0-100 within six seconds and its declared maximum speed, the CUPRA Terramar crossover is today one of the record holders in its class (of course, if we do not take into account some special “hot” versions of premium crossovers with price tags x1.5-2 times). With the most dynamic start from a standstill, the car literally flies forward with a spectacular squat on the rear wheels: the start is more like a sharp blow than a quick straightening of the spring – everything happens so smoothly, but also effectively. True, to achieve a 6-second acceleration mark to “hundreds” you need to select the CUPRA mode and start with Launch Control ; otherwise, with a normal "pedal to the floor" start, the result will be at the level of 6.2-6.5-6.7 seconds. However, even in normal driving mode, you still feel the grip and torque that the engine produces – the eruption of lava from Newtons and horsepower begins at 1.5-2 thousand revolutions and does not let go until 5-6 thousand revolutions.
Just have time to shift gears! But the automatic robot has time, with this the DSG type gearboxes have always been good: imperceptible and fast upshifts, you only have time to notice the jumps in the tachometer indication – oh, so the gear has changed. And there is something to complain about here that the DSG gearbox likes to shift up too early, but is in no hurry to drop the gear down when rapid acceleration is needed… But I will not complain, because: firstly, in the case of the CUPRA Terramar VZ with its powerful engine this is not noticeable (there is enough traction!); and secondly, various driving modes and the gearbox’s sport mode will help to cope with this phenomenon.
Now a provocative question: is the comfort of the suspension what you expect from a CUPRA car? After all, the CUPRA Terramar crossover rides unexpectedly softly and carefully on bumps, it carefully processes every hole and bump in the road, easily rocks the body and passengers in the cabin – and moves on. The only criticism is the sometimes harsh jolts on small bumps. However, I think the 19-inch wheels are to blame here; if you take the size of the disks smaller, the profile height higher, and also choose good tires - the CUPRA Terramar crossover will surprise even more with its comfort. But I will repeat the question once again: is this exactly what buyers expect from CUPRA? The implication is clear...
That's why I wrote so carefully about the DCC suspension and mentioned the sports suspension in the block above, where I described the equipment. However, even now I have something to say in defense of a portion of the remarks about the comfortable suspension of the CUPRA Terramar. You see, the CUPRA brand already has enough 5-door C-class cars with stiff sports suspensions: Ateca, Leon, Formentor. Okay, the CUPRA Ateca crossover is already in its 50s and will soon end its career. Okay, the CUPRA Leon hatchback is smaller and lower, it lacks all-wheel drive. But it's enough that there is the CUPRA Formentor – even more powerful and dynamic, even more sporty in character; but not as spacious, family-friendly, and comfortable as the CUPRA Terramar. Therefore, there is simply no point in making another similar car and further confusing buyers who have already come to your showroom! Instead, it makes sense to do something new to attract a new category of buyers – and this new product is the CUPRA Terramar crossover.
Although otherwise it fully meets CUPRA expectations. I have already mentioned the engine power and dynamics, and now I will mention the rather sharp steering wheel – here it takes only two turns from lock to lock! Thanks to the progressive rack mechanism, the steering wheel is actually quite relaxed during normal turns and becomes sharp only on very twisty bends. And the steering wheel is also quite light in normal mode and allows you to relax during daily commutes; at the same time, the steering wheel becomes heavier in CUPRA mode, requiring more effort and a firm hand during sharp dynamic driving. True, during sharp turns the body noticeably leans to the right/left. Moreover, if the driver and front passenger perceive these rolls as acceptable, then behind the people it is already openly dangling all over the seat. It seems that dad or mom should be “lighted up” behind the wheel alone, without unnecessary passengers. But the fact is: the CUPRA Terramar crossover can do it! It may lose 10% in the sense of sportiness compared to other CUPRA VZ cars; however, it gains 50% in the sense of comfort, convenience, and versatility for passengers. The CUPRA Terramar crossover knows how to live in different worlds, showing its best features almost everywhere – and that’s great.
A cool engine brings this “strong-knocked-down baby” (oh, 1750 kg) to record-breaking figures in the class: the qualifying “hundred” is given within six seconds! Switching driving modes affects not only the behavior of the engine, gearbox, steering wheel, but also the sound – in CUPRA mode, you can expect a more pronounced roar of the engine (the maximum during dynamics measurements was 73 dB) and sharpness in responses to the accelerator pedal, as if the reaction of a naked nerve! If you drive like this all the time – expect fuel consumption of about 13 liters per 100 km in the city. But as soon as you calm down, the car will drive around the city every day with fuel consumption at the level of 10-10.5-11 liters per 100 km – a pretty good result, as for a 265-horsepower 6-second crossover! And you can even argue that it is even less, personally my records of efficiency in the city were 8.8-9 liters per 100 km. On the highway, while driving at a speed of 100 km/h, fuel consumption was 6.2-6.3 liters per 100 km.
Price: how much does the CUPRA Terramar and its competitor cost?
As of now, the CUPRA Terramar crossover has started its career in Ukraine with two versions, both of which have a 2-liter gasoline turbo engine and all-wheel drive. The launch of sales in Ukraine of the aforementioned version with a 150-horsepower engine and front-wheel drive is also being considered, which will help significantly reduce the starting price tag; but physically, such cars will arrive in Ukraine approximately in the fall or even at the end of 2025. Therefore, if we start from what is in the showroom, it is really just a contagion, then…
The line is opened by the CUPRA Terramar MID: a 2-liter 204-horsepower gasoline engine and a 7-speed DSG gearbox, all-wheel drive, sports seats, Media System Plus with a 12.9-inch touch screen display, Digital Cockpit with a 10.25-inch color display, front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, a rearview camera, a frontal collision warning system, a lane-keeping system, automatic wipers and headlights, CUPRA LED headlights, a Drive Profile driving mode change system, progressive steering wheel, cruise control, single-zone climate control, additional interior lighting (front panel and footwell, etc.), 18-inch alloy wheels, etc. The price of the CUPRA Terramar MID 2.0 TSI 204 DSG 4 MOTION car is from 40 thousand. euros or about 1.96 million UAH or about $47 thousand.
The maximum option is the CUPRA Terramar VZ: a 2-liter 265-horsepower gasoline engine, also a 7-speed DSG gearbox and all-wheel drive, the package includes adaptive cruise control, three-zone climate control, Smartline interior lighting , an electric trunk lid with an opening sensor, 19-inch alloy wheels, etc. The price of the CUPRA Terramar VZ 2.0 TSI 265 DSG 4 MOTION car is from 43.35 thousand euros or about 2.13 million UAH or about $51 thousand.
Pay attention to two features. First: the VZ version means not only higher power, but also better equipment – that is, part of the difference in the cost of cars is explained by the better level of equipment. Second: in the case of CUPRA, the equipment is not fixed, but can be further supplemented with individual options or option packages. For example, you can add a head-up display system (800 euros), Sennheiser audio (460 euros), improved or even full leather upholstery for seats with additional electric drive and memory functions and also all-round visibility (940-1300 euros), a panoramic glass roof (930 euros), a Winter package with heated front and rear seats (235 euros), a PURE PERFORMANCE package with matrix headlights (840 euros), various metallic colors (700-1000 euros) or a matte body color (2260 euros). Thus, the maximum versions of the CUPRA Terramar can cost 45-50 thousand euros.
On the other hand: here is an example of the CUPRA Terramar crossover in approximately the starting version: a 2.0 TSI engine with 204 hp, but still a 7-speed "automatic robot" and all-wheel drive; in the cabin you can see the same pair of displays and contour backlighting, although there is no premium audio and additional backlighting on the doors; seats with ordinary textile trim are devoid of electric drive; however, they still offer a comfortable shape and look nice thanks to the blue inserts. Such a car costs about 2.06-2.1 million UAH depending on the exact euro exchange rate at the time of purchase of the car (after all, all CUPRA prices are tied to the euro).
Finally, a few words about competitors. In terms of overall dimensions and technology, the third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan claims to be a rival. But in terms of market positioning and buyer portrait, these are different cars: Volkswagen is betting on prudence, although it is also not devoid of an emotional component in the form of a feeling of comfort; instead, CUPRA is betting on bright emotions and only then adds practicality. Among other potential competing cars, we can note the new generation of Peugeot 3008: it has an interesting design and is cheaper, but loses with weaker engines and again with front-wheel drive. We can also mention the Mazda CX-60 crossover: it is larger in size and offers a fixed configuration/price, but at the moment we no longer have a powerful 6-cylinder turbo engine. That is: in the best case, Peugeot and Mazda cars will be able to compete with the initial versions of the CUPRA Terramar, and even that is not a fact. And the list of most other ordinary crossovers from well-known "popular" brands will simply make a potential CUPRA buyer doze off.
Probably the main problem of the CUPRA Terramar crossover is that with its price tag you can already look towards the BMW X 1 and MINI Countryman (in good trim levels) and even look at the BMW X 3 in the basic version. In addition, in the future you can expect the appearance of a new generation of Audi Q 3 in Ukraine: there may be questions about design, but there will definitely be no questions about defining the brand. And it will be oh so difficult to cope with the temptation to purchase such cars. However, the CUPRA Terramar still deserves high marks.