Here’s why you should be getting excited about the new CUPRA Raval
The CUPRA Raval is set to be one of the Spanish brand’s most important new models. Why? Well, though cars like the Born and Formentor have made a big impact, the Raval will be CUPRA’s first mass-market, low-cost electric vehicle aimed directly at making some big inroads into the segment.
Here at UK Carline, we’re big fans of the CUPRA experience and you’ll find many of this brand’s cars available here. But why are we getting excited about the new Raval? Let’s take a look.
It’s set to offer lots of range
One key part of the whole electric car experience is range. The CUPRA Born always offered plenty of mileage between trips to the plug and we’re expecting the Raval to do just the same. Despite having a relatively lightweight battery, the Raval should be able to manage up to 250 miles between charges, so it’ll be good for those long-distance trips as well.
It’s also expected to get a maximum charge speed of 150kW, which would result in a 10 to 80 per cent charge taking between 25 and 30 minutes.
There’s plenty of space inside
One thing that is really interesting about the CUPRA Raval is its platform. Underneath, it’s got the same basic structure as other upcoming Volkswagen Group electric cars, with models like the VW ID. Polo and Skoda’s Epiq using the same platform. Called MEB+, it’s a chassis setup which is designed to maximise space while helping to keep costs low.
So while the Raval may be relatively compact on the outside, it can still offer enough space for five. We got the chance to sit in an early prototype version and can confirm that both rear seat legroom and headroom are excellent, with the former being helped by the completely flat floor.
It’ll have to battle against key rivals
The Raval is going to have to fight hard to come on top in this segment. As well as its Volkswagen Group stablemates, it’ll also be going up against cars like the Renault 4 and 5, as well as models like the Hyundai Inster. Given its interior space, existing Volkswagen models like the ID.3 and CUPRA Born could also fall into contention.
However, what the Raval is aiming to deliver is value. Volkswagen Group has said that all of its new breed of EVs will be targeting a price of under £25,000 when it goes on sale. Here at UK Carline, we’ll be the first to offer you the best deal on a Raval when it arrives here.
There’s a lot of boot space
Boot space is always important and while CUPRA hasn’t revealed official figures, we have been able to have a snoop at the prototype’s luggage area. On a practicality front, a multi-level boot floor will be useful and give you a space to store the car’s charging cables out of sight when they’re not in use.
As mentioned, official figures have yet to be announced, but we’re expecting it to be around 400 litres, which would put the Raval’s boot closer to that of the Formentor SUV. It’ll be very practical as a result.
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