Driving a Spanish newcomer today – The Cupra Tavascan, the maker’s second electric model retains its Spanish flair despite being built in China. Cupra, part of the Volkswagen Group, and having a better year, sales up 40 percent on 2024. The Tavascon a sporty striking coupe style SUV in two models, the rear drive 210kW Endurance and the sportier 250kW all-wheel drive VZ – I drove the VZ with dual electric motors, a 77kWhour battery and 499km range – it gains an adaptive electronic suspension, power heated front seats, a fixed glass sunroof, leather trim, large 21-inch alloy wheels with copper accents and 12 speaker sound. All up a sporty mid-sized SUV, $79,990 drive-away, different and distinctive in several areas – especially inside with a central V-design central spine that extends rearwards – practical and highlighted with Cupra’s signature copper inlays. Underneath this central flyover there’s excellent storage and phone charging – the layout with large central touchscreen and a small instrument binnacle in front of the driver, all very user friendly, apart from a lack of buttons for air- conditioning and radio. A frustration, like so many EVs and the ability to use safely only when stationary. Warranty, five years, unlimited km, Battery, eight years, 160,000kms.

IMAGE CREDIT / CUPRA

Download this podcast here