SEAT is expanding the efficiency and desirability of the Tarraco, introducing plug-in hybrid powertrain technology and the sporty FR trim. The Tarraco plug-in hybrid is a demonstration of SEAT’s strategy towards electrification, which will include six electric and plug-in hybrid SEAT and CUPRA models by the beginning of 2021.

SEAT sold a record 369,500 vehicles in the first seven months of the year, with 55,200 vehicles sold in July alone, a 7.8 per cent increase over 2018.

“The Tarraco plug-in hybrid perfectly illustrates our move towards a more sustainable mobility, yet maintaining the dynamism and fun-to-drive, typical of any SEAT. The Tarraco will be one of the few options with a plug-in hybrid powertrain on the large SUV segment, and we believe that it has a great potential,” said Luca de Meo, President of SEAT.

Designed and developped at SEAT’s facilities in Martorell, the SEAT Tarraco is being produced in Wolfsburg (Germany). With the introduction of the plug-in hybrid powertrain system, the SEAT Tarraco will gain added efficiency, becoming a very sustainable alternative.

The powertrain system, which comprises a 1.4 litre TSI 110 kW petrol engine, 85 kW electric motor and a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, gives drivers the adaptability of multiple driving modes. The plug-in hybrid Tarraco allows users to drive in pure-electric mode for more than 50km (about thirty miles) should they need to, reducing tailpipe emissions to zero, or combine the petrol engine and electric motor to provide increased performance.

The technology will help the SUV – and SEAT – improve efficiency without the need to make sacrifices in dynamics or comfort.

Total output for the system is 242 bhp (180kW)/295 ft lb giving the plug-in hybrid Tarraco a top speed of 217km/h (135 mph) and the ability to reach 100km/h in just 7.4 seconds. But importantly, CO₂ emissions will be below 50g/km on the official WLTP test cycle.

The exterior design has been enhanced, with wider wheel arches, a sporty rear spoiler and FR-specific 19-inch alloy wheels, with an option to have machined 20-inch wheels available. As well as these changes, at the front, the FR grille proudly houses the SEAT badge; at the back, the coast-to-coast rear light highlights the FR look and the all-body painted exterior “emphasises its dynamism”.

A new colour – Fura Grey – underlines the changes to the exterior and brings additional options to customers to help personalise their vehicle further. The Tarraco also improves in safety and practicality.

New options include trailer assist. Add to this the Parking Heater, a system that allow you to warm the engine and vehicle faster in extremely cold weather.

Front occupants now benefit from electric sports bucket seats with memory function (for the driver side). In addition, the driver benefits from aluminium pedals and a new sports steering wheel with FR logo.

Start of production of the FR trim and of the PHEV version will take place during the course of 2020.

The SEAT Tarraco FR PHEV will make its world debut at this year’s IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show.