2025 Cupra Terramar: Hot hatch performance meets SUV practicality
This sporty looking Spanish model takes what a VW Tiguan does and turns up the tempo to a new level, with a dynamic overhaul and a different look inside and out, despite being built on the same architecture as the more conservative German offering.
There are three grades of Terramar at launch, and a fourth one - a plug-in hybrid with more than 100km of EV range - coming later on. Pricing starts at $58,500 drive-away for the base model mild-hybrid FWD, through to $73,500 drive-away for the range-topping VZ AWD tested here.
It packs a fruity 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with 195kW and 400Nm – the same power and more torque than the Golf GTI hot-hatch – and there's all-wheel drive to ensure the grunt gets to the ground.
And it does. The powertrain is a punchy one, with more enthusiasm on offer if you cycle through the drive modes. There is a configurable setting to adjust engine, transmission, steering and even the suspension (15-stage dampers!), or you can just hit the Cupra button on the steering wheel and go max attack … responsibly, of course.
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
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There's some audible drama from the powertrain, with a nice note as the revs rise, but be mindful that there's also some road roar to contend with if the surface is rough.
It eats up corners and (because of the suspension) coasts comfortably on country roads, if you configure it as so. There is a level of firmness and assuredness to the ride, and those expecting a wafty, remote and cushy experience might be best checking out the Tiguan instead. The steering is tuned to feel direct and bitey, and if you want, you can upgrade to a bigger set of brakes with better stopping power, too.
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
Also worth pointing out that, even in the top-spec, you'll have to spend extra for a sunroof ($2000), which many rivals offer at no cost. But if you do go for the VZ, you get desirable extras like a 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system, 'Deep Burgundy' leather-appointed seat trim, and matrix LED headlights, not to mention the specific 20-inch wheels with Continental SportContact 6 tyres.
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
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The cabin is dominated by daring design, with certainly-not-boring trim finishes, beautiful lighting signatures, and the expected touchscreen control centre, too. The 12.9-inch display has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it hosts most of the controls for the car and aircon system, not to minion the standard (range-wide!) heated seats and steering wheel buttons. The media system will take some time to learn, but it's better than early Cupras by a sizeable margin.
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
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There are favourites buttons you can tailor at the top of the display, and – if you want to – it's simple enough to disable the lane-keeping tech by way of the screen on the steering wheel. Thankfully, the safety tech integration in this car feels like the job has been finished, not just started.
Back seat space is not hugely accommodating for adults, but with ISOFIX and three top-tethers it'll do the job for parents. There are directional vents and climate control for rear riders, and you can slide the bench to allow extra boot space if needed. The cargo zone is 508L with the seats back, and 642L with them slid forward.
2025 Cupra Terramar. Picture: Supplied
Cupra offers a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty plan, and the brand has some discounted prepaid servicing options for three years ($1490) or five years ($2590), not to mention roadside assist and a guaranteed future value program if you're concerned about resale.
Not only is the Cupra Terramar fun to drive, it stacks up on value and practicality. Fun and functional – it could be one well worth a look if those are your priorities.
4.0 stars
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