Cupra passes the 1000 mark for plug-in hybrid cars

Copra has reached the milestone of 1,000 new plug-in hybrid electric vehicles sold in Australia. PHEVs currently account for almost a third of the Spanish brand’s total sales in 2024.

The milestone comes 13 months after Cupra launched its Sale of 1000th electric vehicle – including electric vehicles – and represents a claimed 300 percent year-on-year increase for PHEV models, despite the technology currently only being offered in the Leon hatchback and Formentor SUV.

That won’t last long: the incoming 2025 Cupra Terramar small SUV is expected to prioritise PHEV (VZe) powertrains when it hits the market next year as an indirect replacement for the Tiguan-based Cupra Ateca.

The all new Tavascan battery-electric mid-size SUV is also expected in December, further strengthening Cupra’s offering.

Despite the growing popularity of PHEV models, total Cupra sales in the first half of 2024 – 1,150 units – represent a 27.5 percent decline, with double-digit declines for the Ateca (121, -49.4%), Formentor (606, -36.1%) and Leon (164, -26.8%).

Only the Born EV hatchback scores positively (259, +48.9%).

While customer interest initially focused on the top-of-the-range versions of the Leon, Formentor and Ateca, Cupra says the improved range of electrified models and the appeal of government subsidies have led to a shift towards PHEVs.

“While the Leon VZe and Formentor VZe plug-in hybrids only came to market well into the past year, Cupra has seen an exceptional increase in interest in vehicles that can complete the daily commute on battery power while retaining an efficient turbocharged petrol engine,” a spokesperson said.

“With a large supply of PHEVs secured ahead of the expected changes to FBT benefits in early 2025, Cupra expects the popularity of VZe vehicles to continue to grow.”

The next 12 months or so will be a busy time for Cupra Australia as the company prepares to introduce not only the new Terramar and Tavascan SUVs, but also a new halo variant of the Born and updates for the Leon and Formentor.

There is also a large electric SUV confirmed for our market further away, possibly originating from the US.