The Cupra Tavascan VZ: an adrenalin rush

The Cupra Tavascan is a vehicle that gives pride of place to its high-performance features. This electric SUV coupe, particularly its VZ variant, exudes a sporty and adventurous spirit. Its availability in a 'Adrénaline' trim level is a clear indication of its dynamic ambitions.

At the end of 2024, the cold weather didn't intimidate the Cupra Tavascan VZ Adrénaline out of our hands. First and foremost, it's a four-wheel drive thanks to its duo of electric motors. Then there's its 77-kilowatt-hour battery (82 kilowatt-hours gross), with exterior styling stripped down to ensure tranquil autonomy. The outcome is a car with 340 horsepower (250 kilowatts) divided between the 286 horsepower rear motor - the leader of the pack - and the 109 horsepower front motor. In typical use, the Tavascan VZ is a rear-wheel drive. The front motor is only called upon during heavy acceleration and sporty driving, when the rear feels unstable. But let's not jump ahead of ourselves.

Light bath

There are no straight lines inside the Tavascan. Instead, the design features a wave-like aesthetic. The center support even creates a unique "Y" shape between the seats, giving the interior a dynamic look. There is ample lighting on the passenger side of the dashboard and the door panels, creating a modern atmosphere. The centerpiece of the console is a 15-inch floating screen that activates a high-tech infotainment system. On the other hand, the driver's digital instrument cluster is designed to be minimalist. Plus, there's a head-up display to rely on for vital information. Despite its sporty coupe-like appearance, the prototype remains practical and spacious. The interior can accommodate passengers with ease, with plenty of room to move around. The trunk space, too, is generous, with a capacity of 540 liters. The front seats are upholstered in microfiber and set the tone for the car's sporty character.

Crazy

With 340hp and 535Nm, the SUV accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds when in Cupra mode. Notably, the Tavascan is not a lightweight vehicle, albeit it is quite agile. The controlled suspension ensures a smooth ride, making it easy to handle the vehicle's 2.3 tons. The car navigates corners with stability and is responsive to steering due to its precise steering. Its handling is hard to criticize. The car projects a sense of serene dynamism, which is also likely to be pleasing with the 286hp (210kW) two-wheel-drive version. The low center of gravity gives the chassis a confident feel. On its 21-inch wheels, the Tavascan VZ remains comfortable and surprisingly efficient, regardless of its drivetrain – with two engines and all-wheel drive – which makes it a formidable machine.

Toasting the cells

When you drive extremely fast initially, you might expect to have to recharge frequently. However, that's not the case. The official WLTP range for the VZ Adrenaline is 515km. If you permit a few intense bursts of acceleration out of bends and sporty starts at green lights, while following the speed limits, you can undertake trips of over 350km before recharging, including a guaranteed 300km on the freeway without lagging behind in the first lane. The heat pump included in the Contrast & Hero winter package, which also includes heating for all seats and electric windshield defrosting. A €1,515 bonus (in Belgium).

Play with your feet

It's possible to slow down naturally during deceleration, by taking your foot off the gas and getting a few steps. However, this won't be enough to stop the car without using the brakes, especially since the brake pedal sometimes lacks sensitivity. If you don't use the brakes, the car will slow down very gradually. There's an automatic regenerative braking system, which sometimes varies in its effectiveness in a somewhat unpredictable manner. For your own safety, it's better to activate the regenerative mode manually using your right foot. A more responsive pedal with less reliance on regeneration would be more suitable for spirited driving, especially when pushing the car's speed limits, such as on a racing track or on the autobahn.

Well-born, not free

Fun, exciting, and unconventional, the Cupra Tavascan VZ reconciles us with the pleasure of driving an electric vehicle.  It's a fantastic car that is, with an aggressive appearance, even from the side view. Its design and personality make it confident and daring. It even avoids the pretense of fake engine noises, fully embracing its electric powertrain. However, all this comes at a price tag of over $78,000 in Belgium, $72,000 in France, $66,000 in the Netherlands and Germany, £59,000 in the UK and CHF68,000 in Switzerland. You'll also need to consider whether or not to add the essential heat pump, as it's not included. On the other hand, in the absence of 800 V architecture, DC fast charging will be capped at 135kW. Nevertheless, the vehicle's energy management is efficient, allowing the battery to continue providing power for about 2 hours after a 30-minute stop. This makes it quick and convenient to start driving again!

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source : Cupra – Photograph taken by Olivier Duquesne)

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