I could have driven the VZ all-wheel-drive electric version of the Cupra Tavascan coupe SUV all day. It is the sort of car I like – fairly aggressive in its driving but comfortable in handling.
I’m sure, in fact I’m certain, there are those who would criticise it for not being more dynamically accentuated given the power (340hp) at its disposal and the Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) underpinning it.
But I felt at ease behind the wheel regardless of speed (under legal limit) or behaviour on tough roads or pock-marked surfaces. It’s just unfortunate that it weighs around two tonnes. That is the big penalty you pay for EV batteries, and more so with the larger ones.
Now, I wouldn’t have been an adoring fan of the Cupra look – not just the Tavascan – until relatively recently. I thought the copper insets and inlets (outside and in) were a bit overdone.
That is understandable, I suppose, in the rush of enthusiasm to distinguish it in a highly-competitive category. But I’ve been impressed by what they’re doing over the last while.
So I guess that’s why I could say it is a case of second, rather than first, impressions that count.
Outside is a successful variation of the SUV/Coupe theme. Inside is interesting. There is little sign of short cuts being taken with the VZ model I tested. There’s a lot of tech stuff in the cabin with its Y-shaped central spine (not mad about that but it wouldn’t turn me away).
Included are the on-dash 15ins navigation system and 5.3ins digital cockpit and an excellent Sennheiser sound system. The infotainment system marks a significant improvement.
The test version of this will cost you €70,990 (AWD). The range starts at €44,365 (rear-wheel-drive). The former is not, as you would expect, the big seller but I’d look at it if I won a chunk of money on a Lotto scratch card.
Realistically I’d settle probably for the €44,365 with a few embellishments.
I expected the sloping roofline of the coupé shape to damage head, rear leg room and boot space.
The rear accommodation isn’t the most generous; neither is the 540-litre boot but it’s copious enough.
Rivals for the VZ include the VW ID.5 GTX (with whom it shares a platform), Ford Capri, Tesla Model Y, Skoda Enyaq Coupe vRS and Kia EV6 – all good buys for their target markets.
The Cupra with its 77kWh battery can call on 340hp and cover a range of 516kms (doubtful). The 4WD on the VZ added adhesion and ability to handle most, if not all, the more severe bumps.
As a result, I got the sort of smooth/sport feedback I most like from a driving chassis. It wasn’t an accelerative slouch either: 0-100kms in 5.5 seconds
It supports 135kW DC fast charging, allowing a 10per cent-to-80per cent charge in about 28 minutes.
You’d expect it to be is front-loaded with tech and it is. The medium-sized performance coupe segment lies in fiercely competitive territory, so equipment is a big deal. It can help nudge buyers away from the better-known names.
Speaking of equipment, the Tavascan VZ gets you 21ins KATLA alloys, panoramic roof, matrix LED lights, remote park assist, top-view 360 camera, wireless android auto and Apple CarPlay.
The dynamic chassis control, I mentioned is there too as is the augmented reality head up display and Kessy advance with illuminated handles. There is 3-zone Climatronic air con, multi-function sports steering wheel (heated) with satellite buttons, wireless phone charging.
VERDICT: Being something of an underdog, it has to, and be seen to be, that much better to keep in touch. I think it does.
