- The eye-catching concept could serve as the perfect halo car for the brand.
- Before it can be produced, Cupra needs to launch its next generation of ICE and EV models.
- The carmaker plans to launch in the U.S. by 2030.
Cupra chief executive Wayne Griffiths would love to see the DarkRebel concept spawn a production car, but says it remains a “dream” while the carmaker focuses on profitability and volumes.
The DarkRebel premiered as a digital concept before spawning a full-size model unveiled at September’s Munich Motor Show. It takes the form of a bold and aggressive sporty model with a sleek hatchback design and could serve as a compelling flagship model for the brand. However, Griffiths has more immediate priorities for the marque.
Read: Cupra DarkRebel Electric Sports Car Goes From Metaverse To Reality In Munich
“It’s a car I’d love to do, but you do it at a time when you can afford to do it,” he told Autocar in a recent interview. “When you have limited resources, you need to make your priorities, so obviously for me a big priority is the next generation of Cupra cars and electric cars.”
“The DarkRebel would do a great job for Cupra in terms of image and positioning, but in terms of generating profitability and volume, certainly not,” he added. “It could be a real game-changer for the Cupra brand at some point in the future, but at the moment, it remains a dream.”
The road-going Cupra range was recently updated with refreshed versions of the Formentor and Leon. These updated models include revised styling and Cupra has boosted power from the flagship 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder it offers, meaning it now produces 328 hp. Performance-focused models include a new torque splitter, Akebono brakes, and a dedicated ‘Cupra’ driving mode.
Cupra also intends to launch in the U.S. by 2030. The company is expected to sell an electric version of the Formentor stateside and plans to produce and sell a large electric crossover in the U.S.
Cracking into the American market won’t be easy but perhaps selling a production version of the DarkRebel could help Cupra? Let us know your thoughts below.
