Cupra Raval 155kW V1 52kWh 5dr Auto

•  Automatic Electric 5 door hatchback

CUPRA Raval Review

The Short Version

The CUPRA Raval could be one of the most interesting small electric cars on the market.It’s compact, stylish, practical and, importantly, feels like a genuine CUPRA rather than simply another Volkswagen Group model wearing a different badge.Based on the new MEB+ platform, the Raval shares its foundations with the upcoming generation of small EVs from Volkswagen and Škoda, but CUPRA has given it a much more distinctive personality.If you’re looking for a small electric car with plenty of style and a sportier feel, the Raval deserves a place on your shortlist.

What Is the CUPRA Raval?

The Raval is CUPRA’s smallest model yet and represents an important step for the Spanish brand.CUPRA has grown rapidly since launching as a standalone brand in 2018, and the Raval is the first model in this size category where CUPRA has played a leading role in the development of the underlying vehicle architecture.It forms part of Volkswagen Group’s new family of small electric cars, alongside models such as the Volkswagen ID. Polo, Volkswagen ID. Cross and Škoda Epiq.The name comes from El Raval, a well-known neighbourhood in Barcelona that has developed a reputation for being creative, fashionable and full of character.That description actually fits the car pretty well.

Battery, Performance & Range

The Raval is built on Volkswagen Group’s latest MEB+ electric platform.Unlike the larger CUPRA Born, the Raval uses a front-mounted electric motor, with different power outputs depending on the battery and specification.The entry-level version uses a 37kWh battery and is available with either 115PS or 135PS, with a range of around 186 miles.For drivers covering more miles, the larger 52kWh battery is likely to be the more appealing option. It uses a Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt battery and offers up to around 279 miles of range.The 52kWh models get a more powerful 210PS electric motor, while the range-topping VZ increases output to 225PS.And that’s where things get particularly interesting.The Raval VZ gets wider tyres, a limited-slip differential, sports suspension with adaptive damping, a wider track and a specially tuned steering system.It also gets a Sport mode and launch control.The result is a small EV capable of 0-62mph in under seven seconds, with a top speed of 109mph.All versions also feature regenerative braking controlled via steering-wheel paddles, allowing near one-pedal driving when using the strongest setting.

Design & Interior

Small electric cars are becoming increasingly stylish, so the Raval has plenty of competition when it comes to looks.CUPRA hasn’t played it safe.The car gets the brand’s distinctive shark-nose front end, sharp body creases and a sloping roofline inspired by the earlier Urban Rebel concept.At just over four metres long, it’s compact enough for city driving while still offering surprisingly good interior space.At the back, there’s a full-width 3D Infinity light bar and an illuminated CUPRA badge on higher-specification models.Aerodynamics have also been carefully considered, with an active front grille, flush-fitting door handles and aerodynamically designed wheels helping the Raval achieve CUPRA’s lowest drag coefficient to date.Inside, there’s a mixture of familiar Volkswagen Group technology and more distinctive CUPRA touches.The dashboard features some interesting detailing, while the ambient lighting system can project different patterns and colours around the doors.The 10.25-inch digital driver’s display is the largest CUPRA has used, while the centre of the dashboard features a 12.9-inch infotainment screen.The system is familiar from other VW Group products, although the Raval retains physical buttons on the steering wheel rather than relying entirely on touch controls.Higher-specification VZ models also get CUP bucket seats with sustainable, lightweight upholstery.Despite the Raval’s compact exterior, rear passenger space is surprisingly good, particularly for headroom.Boot space is another strong point, with 430 litres available — actually 45 litres more than the larger CUPRA Born.There’s no front boot, or “frunk”, however.

Models & Pricing

The Raval range consists of four main trim levels:

• Origin
• V1
• V2
• VZ

The entry-level Origin is available with the 37kWh battery.The V1 and V2 models offer a choice between the 37kWh and larger 52kWh batteries, while the VZ sits at the top of the range with its performance-focused specification.UK pricing starts at around £24,000, although most buyers are likely to be looking at cars closer to the £30,000 mark once they move into the more desirable specifications.The larger 52kWh versions also qualify for the £1,500 UK Electric Car Grant, where eligible.That makes the Raval particularly interesting when comparing it against other small electric cars.

Charging & Running Costs

Charging performance is competitive.The 37kWh battery supports DC charging at up to 90kW, taking around 27 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.The larger 52kWh battery increases the maximum DC charging speed to 130kW, reducing the 10-80% charging time to approximately 23 minutes.At home, a 7.4kW wallbox will take around 10 hours for a full charge.For most owners who can charge overnight, that should be more than adequate.CUPRA also offers its own home charging equipment and charging management through its Easy Charging app.The battery comes with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty, with CUPRA guaranteeing at least 70% of its usable capacity during that period.There’s also a five-year/90,000-mile vehicle warranty, along with optional CUPRA Care servicing packages.

Our Verdict

The Raval is an important car for CUPRA.For the first time, the brand has had the opportunity to take the foundations of Volkswagen Group technology and give them a character of its own.The result is a small EV that looks distinctive, offers good practicality and, particularly in VZ specification, promises genuinely sporty performance.It’s also more spacious and practical than its compact dimensions might suggest, with a 430-litre boot and good rear-seat space.Of course, the Volkswagen ID. Polo, ID. Cross and Škoda Epiq will offer their own interpretations of the same basic electric-car architecture.But if you want something with a little more attitude, the Raval is likely to be one of the more interesting choices.And ultimately, with a car like this, the leasing deal can be just as important as the list price.If the monthly payment makes sense, the CUPRA Raval could make a very compelling small electric car.