Cupra announces future compact hybrid SUV

Cupra has teased an upcoming compact SUV, promising hybrid powertrains when the new model joins its line-up in 2024.

The Spanish brand says the vehicle will be available with a range of engines, including a mild-hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and will measure out at 4500 millimetres long.

Given it will be built alongside the Audi Q3 – which itself is 4517mm long – the mysterious model will likely be based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB architecture, giving us some clues as to what we can expect under the bonnet.

The Spanish performance brand has not provided any details on the engines, but we could see the new Cupra model adopt something similar to the 1.4-litre turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain found in the recently-released Audi Q3 45 TFSI e, which uses a 13kWh battery to power an 85kW electric motor.

While the Audi Q3 PHEV claims up to 50 kilometres of electric-only driving, it’s possible the Cupra will enjoy a larger and more advanced battery, allowing for a greater driving range.

Cupra’s announcement comes just a day after its cousin Skoda suggested it was also bringing out a small SUV, though that particular model is expected to use pure-electric power based on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform.

With Cupra’s compact SUV set to enter production in 2024, expect to see the car’s unveiling at some point next year.