The 2020 SEAT Tarraco PHEV
The 2020 SEAT Tarraco PHEV

SEAT’s Tarraco SUV will soon be available as a plug-in hybrid FR model, as well as in a sporty FR trim for other engine variants. The new SEAT Tarraco PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) will form’s part of SEAT’s strategy towards electrification, which will include five electric and plug-in hybrid SEAT and CUPRA models by the beginning of 2021.

The Tarraco’s plug-in hybrid powertrain system consists of a 1.4 litre TSI 150hp petrol engine, 85 kW electric motor and a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The car can be driven in pure-electric mode for around 50km or combine the petrol engine and electric motor to provide increased performance.

Total output for the system is 245hp (180kW)/400Nm giving the plug-in hybrid Tarraco a top speed of about 217km/h and the ability to reach 100km/h in just 7.4 seconds. CO2 emissions are expected to be below 50g/km on the official WLTP test cycle.

A new sporty FR trim will also become available on other Tarraco variants in 2020. This features wider wheel arches, a rear spoiler and FR-specific 19” alloy wheels, with an option of machined 20” wheels available.

There is also a new colour for the Tarraco FR – Fura Grey and there are new safety and practicality features including trailer assist.

SEAT’s latest generation infotainment system features including a new navigation system with 9.2’’ screen. There are also electrically adjustable sports bucket seats with memory function (for the driver side), aluminium pedals and a new sports steering wheel with FR logo.

Niall Phillips, Brand Director at SEAT Ireland said: “We are excited to introduce the FR trim and PHEV derivative to the Tarraco range. The SEAT brand is performing exceptionally well in this market, and the all-new Tarraco continues to contribute to this success. Ever-changing consumer demands for e-mobility mean we must constantly develop our product range. The plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, engine offers the consumer the choice of electric power with a traditional combustion engine and with the SUV segment thriving in the Irish market we can now combine the consumers’ desire to own an SUV and move one step closer to electrification.”

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

The SEAT Tarraco arrived in Ireland in 2019 and is available as a five and seven seat SUV. Click here to read Caroline’s review of the new SEAT Tarraco 2.0TDI.