Driving the relatively new Cupra Tavascan mid-sized electric SUV today – the higher grade Tavascan VZ at $79,990 driveaway, a striking coupe style mid-sized SUV with dual motor 250kW all-wheel drive with electronic adaptive suspension, large 21-inch alloy wheels, six drive modes, a full suite of active and passive safety elements and an interior design that is unique and very appealing. Cupra always highlight wheels and interior elements with copper trim and its very distinctive although some of this makers dark colours I find a little sombre and lacking vibrance. As a driver not so, this is a spritely performer with a 0 to 100km/hour time of 5.5 seconds, the adaptive suspension providing a great ride/handling balance with all-wheel drive and with steering weight and feel nicely balanced to the cars selected drive modes. Brake pedal feel however disappointing, too much pushback and inconsistency in feel and response and I know of no other performance skewed car at this price point retaining rear drum brakes. The brakes are simply not confidence inspiring under heavy use. It’s a pity as the Cupra Tavascan VZ SUV is one that invites spirited driving, and it performs very well in all other areas and has a point of difference that is very appealing.

IMAGE CREDIT / CUPRA

Download this podcast here