The Cupra Tavascan is a VW ID.5 with attitude. Above all, this electric SUV coupe has a great deal of ferocity in its most powerful VZ variant. It even comes in a trim level called Adrenaline. That says everything about its ambitions.
At the end of 2024, the cold did not deter us from handling the Cupra Tavascan VZ Adrénaline. To begin with, it features four-wheel drive due to its pair of electric motors. This is complemented by its 77kWh battery (82kWh gross), with an exterior design streamlined to achieve effortless long-distance travel. The vehicle boasts 340hp (250kW), which is divided between the 286hp rear motor – the lead engine – and the 109hp front motor. In normal driving conditions, the Tavascan VZ primarily operates as a rear-wheel drive. The front motor is only activated during heavy acceleration and spirited driving, when the rear wheels begin to struggle for traction. But let’s refrain from getting ahead of ourselves.
Light bath
There are no straight lines on the Tavascan. Instead, it has a wave-like design. A central support beam runs across the seats, forming a Y shape. The passenger side of the dashboard receives abundant light, as do the door panels. A 15-inch screen emerges from the center console, launching the car’s advanced infotainment system. In contrast, the driver’s digital display is minimalistic. Relying on the head-up display might be the best option. Although the Tavascan has sleek, coupe-like lines, its practicality is not compromised. Its passenger space is surprisingly roomy, despite its compact appearance. Even the trunk space is generous, with a capacity of 540 liters. The interior is set off by the microfiber bucket seats, which contribute to the overall character of the vehicle.
Crazy
With 340 horsepower and 535 Nm of torque, the SUV reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds when in Cupra mode. Not excessively heavy, the Tavascan is easy to handle, its 2.3 tons defying expectations. The suspension system provides a smooth ride, and the car behaves well around corners due to its precise steering. This is a hard combination to criticize. The Tavascan feels serene and dynamic, and this experience is not limited to the 210 kW, two-wheel-drive model. Its chassis is stable and assured, making it a versatile choice. With two engines and all-wheel drive, the Tavascan VZ is an efficient and comfortable vehicle, even with its 21-inch wheels.
Toasting the cells
You might expect frequent recharging when driving at a fast pace, but no. The official WLTP range for the VZ Adrenaline is 515km. You can go on journeys of over 350km without recharging, including traveling on the freeway for at least 300km, as long as you drive within the speed limits and make occasional swift starts off the line. The Contrast & Hero winter package, which also includes a heat pump, buttock and back heating for all seats, and electric windshield defrosting, can be yours for €1,515 (in Belgium).
Play with your feet
You can briefly experience regeneration during deceleration by lifting your foot off the gas, but it won’t provide enough braking force to avoid stopping entirely. The brake pedal often lacks initial responsiveness. If you don’t press the brake, you’ll merely slow down gradually. There’s an automatic regenerative mode, which can be surprisingly unpredictable in its level of energy recapture. Let me put it this way: it’s safer for your right leg if you opt for the brakes. A more responsive pedal with less reliance on regeneration would be more in line with sporty driving, particularly when pushing the car to its top speed of 180km/h on a German highway or a racing track.
Well-born, not free
This electric vehicle, the Cupra Tavascan VZ, is quite an exciting, thrilling choice. With its bold design, it’s impossible not to notice it from the side. Essentially, its design is a statement that says it won’t blend in with the crowd. It’s straightforward about its electric powertrain, without resorting to artificial engine sounds. Nevertheless, this comes with a price tag: the cost varies between €60,000 in Germany and £55,000 in the UK. You’ll also need to consider whether a heat pump is an essential feature for you, especially since, without a 800 V architecture, rapid charging speeds will be capped at 135 kW. Despite this, the Cupra Tavascan VZ does handle its battery well, typically allowing it to continue driving for 2 hours after a 30-minute break, after which it’s ready to go again.
Patterson said ‘I’m absolutely thrilled and honored to be joining this elite group in Geneva. It is a privilege to receive an award for our work, which I believe reflects the hard work and dedication from the entire team and the tremendous support of our customers.
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