SEAT's large SUV, the Tarraco, is going into production in plug-in form

SEAT is rolling out its electrified strategy apace with the latest model to gain an electrified powertrain being the large Tarraco SUV. It now joins the Leon in being offered in e-HYBRID form, helping to bring down the Spanish brand's fleet emissions before new, stringent targets come into force.

Electrification using a common PHEV powertrain is being rolled out across VW Group brands. If you've kept up with recent car launches, Škoda, Volkswagen, CUPRA and SEAT have all added plug-in versions of their biggest sellers to their model ranges. SEAT can now chalk up the Taracco e-HYBRID to that list.

Powertrain

In-line with other VW Group cars using it, the PHEV powertrain combines the trusty 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, which is good for 148bhp, with an 113bhp electric motor. This delivers the Tarraco's total power of 242bhp, backed up with 295lb-ft of torque, sent through the Group's six-speed DSG transmission.

Battery power comes in the shape of a 13kWh unit which enables the large SUV to travel 30.5 miles in zero emissions electric mode, according to the WLTP test. In hybrid mode, SEAT claims that the Tarraco has a range of up to 454 miles.

Charging from a standard household socket is practical on this powertrain, taking less than five hours, while on a 3.6kW wall box the Tarraco can be juiced in just three-and-a-half hours.

Trim levels

SEAT is offering the Tarraco e-HYBRID in just two trim levels; FR and Xcellence.  The Tarraco FR gets wider wheel arches that cover standard 19 inch alloys with a 20 inch option available. At the front there's an FR-specific grille and at the back there's a spoiler and 'coast-to-coast' (wrap-around) rear lights, and 'Tarraco FR' is embossed on the rear hatch.

Inside, the Tarraco FR comes with the latest generation of SEAT's infotainment and navigation system. This offers all the latest in connectivity and is managed through an 8 inch touchscreen interface. Up front, the driver and passenger get sports bucket seats with memory function on the driver side. The driver also gets aluminium pedals and a sports steering wheel specific to FR trimmed Tarracos. As standard, the Tarraco FR gets the digital cockpit with a 10.25 inch screen displaying instruments and driving information.

In Xcellence trim, the Tarraco gains much of the same kit and technology, though without the more aggressive styling inside and out.

Price and availability

SEAT hasn't confirmed the price for the Tarraco e-HYBRID, but we do know that we will have to wait until the second half of 2021 before deliveries start. We'll update this story as soon as SEAT confirms prices!