What's the difference?
There aren’t many cars like the new Cupra Terramar VZe as it’s a mid-size plug-in hybrid flagship that sits firmly at the premium end of the mainstream market. That’s either a huge advantage… or it’s not.
Because when you don’t have a clear set of rivals, you tend to stand out.
There are alternatives, of course. Things like the BYD Sealion 6 Premium, Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, GWM Haval H6 GT, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid - but they each approach this space a little differently, whether it’s in pricing, positioning or execution.
Which leaves the Terramar VZe carving out a niche for itself. So the question is, does this plug-in hybrid make a compelling case?
Ford has introduced what is being touted as an adventure-type van to its Transit Custom line-up and it’s called the Trail.
The Trail is based on the long-wheelbase Transit Custom Trend and it’s equipped with a suspension lift, on-demand all-wheel drive, 'Trail' drive mode, LED headlights and daytime running lights, a variant-specific grille, black wheel arch moulding and side strip, yellow exterior decals and 16-inch matt black twin-spoke alloy wheels.
With all that in mind, maybe a van is your next adventure vehicle?
Read on.
The Cupra Terramar VZe looks fantastic on the road and confidently handles most things you throw at it. The plug-in hybrid set-up offers a nice blend of performance and efficiency. But… when you start digging into the price and ownership promise and what you do (and don’t) get for your money, it doesn’t always feel like the most compelling package. Sexy and sporty? Definitely. Value-for-money? Mmm.
The Ford Transit Custom Trail has plenty of appeal as a work van or a camper fit-out candidate. It’s a well-packaged, comfortable and contemporary van that’s nice to drive and as a bonus, with all-wheel drive it’s given the scope of capability to be able to tackle mild off-roading situations with confidence.
It’s built for work and play and though it’s limited to two-up for travels, the Trail offers so much potential as a camper conversion for adventure seekers its few niggles are easily forgotten when you’re busy making memories.