Spanish performance brand Cupra aims to lead the small, performance-focused electric hatchback market. Launching early next year, the Cupra Raval stands out as a designated “troublemaker” in this growing segment, promising a driving experience far more engaging than a typical city car.

Three Different Versions and a 450km Range

The Raval takes on the role of the designated sporty sibling within the Volkswagen Group, and engineers have given it a unique feel by tweaking the underlying architecture. Although it shares the updated MEB+ platform with future models like the VW ID. Polo, ID. Cross, and Skoda Epiq, the Raval will offer a different handling experience. Cupra has lowered the chassis by 15mm, stiffened the suspension, and added progressive steering to enhance its agile feel.

Unlike some small EVs that still rely on drum brakes at the rear axle, the Raval features disc brakes at both the front and rear axles. These targeted changes ensure the Raval delivers on its performance promise and immediately sets it apart from other small, urban EVs developed alongside it.

At just over 4.0 meters long, the Raval sits firmly in the subcompact class. However, the brand makes it clear that this small hatchback is aimed at more than just supermarket trips. Customers will be able to choose from three different versions at launch, each tailored to different needs and budgets.

• Dynamic (Entry-Level): This base model delivers 208 horsepower from a single front-mounted electric motor and aims for a driving range of 450 km from an undisclosed battery size.
• Dynamic Plus (Mid-Level): Maintains the same powerful output while offering a suite of premium technologies, including intelligent parking assistance, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Matrix LED headlights, and a 12-speaker sound system from Sennheiser.
• VZ (Flagship Performance): For drivers who demand the highest performance, this version boosts performance with a more powerful engine producing 233 horsepower. The VZ also receives additional performance enhancements such as an electronic differential, a sporty steering knuckle, and a 10 mm wider track for improved stability.

The Raval VZ comes with standard 19-inch wheels featuring a striking circular saw design. However, this performance increase comes at the cost of a small reduction in the VZ’s maximum range to 400 km. Adaptive suspension dampers (Dynamic Chassis Control) will also be available, but details on whether they will be standard are not yet available.

Cupra plans to keep the Raval’s starting price around €26,000, marketing it as an affordable but enthusiast-focused option. The VZ trim will naturally be more expensive, likely reaching around €35,000. The manufacturer has indicated that after the initial performance-focused range is launched, other less powerful and potentially more accessible trims could join the Raval family, broadening the model’s appeal.