A New Era for Small Electric Vehicles in Australia
Good things come to those who wait. After six years since Cupra first unveiled its concept for the Cupra Raval, we’ve finally had our first chance to experience this all-electric hatchback, which is set to compete with the Mini Cooper SE. The Raval will be the first of four new small EVs from the Volkswagen Group, including the Volkswagen ID. Polo, ID. Cross SUV, and Skoda Epiq. As the lead model in this lineup, the Raval showcases Cupra’s commitment to performance and innovation.
Striking Design and Spacious Interior
The Raval is the sportiest of the four models, featuring Cupra’s signature angular styling, including a sharp shark nose. Large wheels, a prominent rear spoiler, and an oversized diffuser give it a race-inspired look while improving aerodynamics. Measuring 4046mm in length, 1784mm in width, and standing at 1518mm tall with a 2600mm wheelbase, the Raval offers surprising interior space. Even in the second row, a large adult can sit comfortably behind another, with ample leg and headroom. The boot is also impressive, offering 441 litres of storage.
Advanced Platform and Dynamic Performance
The Raval uses the VW Group’s new MEB+ platform, which optimizes space by housing the front motor, transmission, inverter, and power electronics under the bonnet. This allows for more room for passengers. To enhance dynamics, the Raval has a 10mm wider front and rear track for better grip, sits 15mm lower than the ID. Polo for reduced body roll, and features uprated front wheel carriers and a stability control system that can be completely switched off for track use.
Battery Options and Charging Speed
In Europe, the Raval is available with either a 37kWh LFP battery or a 52kWh NMC battery. With the smaller battery, the Raval can travel up to 300km on a charge, combined with an 85kW or 99kW front motor. In Australia, it’s expected that buyers will only get the larger 52kWh battery, allowing the Mini Cooper SE rival to drive up to 440km on the WLTP test cycle, with a choice of 155kW or 166kW e-motors. Despite a peak charging rate of 105kW, a 10-80% charge takes between 23 and 24 minutes, which is reasonable for a small EV in its class.
Interior Features and Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the Raval’s sporty design is reflected inside, especially in the range-topping VZ model, which offers grippier Cup bucket seats. The VZ comes with a 12.9-inch multimedia setup, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.5-inch digital dash. Highlights include 3D-knitted upholstery made from 100% recycled material, a sporty steering wheel, and ambient lighting that projects patterns along the door cards. While the hard plastic door pulls may feel budget-friendly, they don’t detract from the fun.
Performance and Handling
Developed with the mantra of building a small EV you’d actually want to drive, the VZ hot hatch shares much with the upcoming VW ID. Polo GTI. It features a high-output 166kW e-motor, adaptive dampers, an electronic-locking differential, and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in sticky tyres. Off the line, the VZ offers strong performance, with 0-100km/h taking around 6.8 seconds. The top speed is 175km/h, but a software patch is expected to raise it to 190km/h.
Driving Modes and Road Performance
Around town, most will prefer the Raval in ‘Comfort’ or ‘Range’ mode, which softens the ride and offers three levels of brake regeneration. Switching to ‘Performance’ mode weights up the steering and increases damping for better body control, though the ride quality is slightly compromised. The largest 19-inch wheels might be too much for Australian roads, but engineers say 17- and 18-inch wheels are also available for improved ride quality.
Safety and Warranty
Cupra Australia plans to skip the entry and V1 trims, focusing on the mid-spec V2 and flagship VZ. The V2 comes with a 155kW e-motor, 19-inch alloy wheels, electric folding mirrors, LED headlights, a Sennheiser sound system, wireless phone charger, and more. The VZ adds matrix LED headlights, 3D LED rear lighting, a 360-degree camera, and advanced adaptive cruise control. All models come with a five-year/unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and eight-year/160,000km battery protection.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
While pricing details are not yet available, early reports suggest the VZ could start at $50,000 plus on-road costs, making it cheaper than the Mini Cooper SE and MG4 XPower. Despite higher pricing than other small EVs, the Raval offers a fun driving experience, a classy cabin, and ultra-low running costs. We believe many will be happy to pay a premium once they’ve experienced the Raval behind the wheel.
