CUPRA Raval takes to the road in pre-series form

The CUPRA Raval marks the beginning of a new era for the brand. With striking design, electrifying performance and unconventional features, the CUPRA Raval reinvents the possibilities of EVs for a new generation of drivers.

Based on Volkswagen’s MEB+ platform and featuring front-wheel drive, the CUPRA Raval offers a dynamic and engaging experience focused on the driver. At just 4 metres long, it’s compact, yet —thanks to its road handling, generous interior space and practical, spacious boot— it’s engineered not only for city life, but for much more, including road trips and longer journeys.

The CUPRA Raval will make its World Premiere and market launch in 2026 as the first model of the Electric Urban Car family, comprising four cars from the Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group Core. Starting with the production of the CUPRA Raval in the upcoming months and followed by the Volkswagen ID. Polo both to be manufactured in Martorell, this family of cars is set to emotionalise and democratise electric mobility and establish a new benchmark in Europe, making it more desirable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.

“The CUPRA Raval embodies everything that CUPRA stands for, from driver-first emotion to bold design and outstanding performance. It’s a car that is set to shape the next era of electric mobility, making EVs accessible to a new generation,” said Markus Haupt, CEO of CUPRA. “Designed, developed and soon to be produced in Martorell, the CUPRA Raval represents our commitment to electrification. As the first model to launch from the Electric Urban Car Family, a project we’re proud to lead for the Volkswagen Group, it also confirms our company’s position as an automotive powerhouse,” he continued.

With a sport chassis—15mm lower than the platform—, specifically fine-tuned suspension, progressive steering that enhances agility and ESC Sport, the CUPRA Raval offers exceptional handling and driving fun.

The CUPRA-specific driving dynamics and setup express the Raval’s sporty DNA. Dynamic Chassis Control uses adaptive shock absorbers that can adjust their dampening for comfort or more agile, sport-focused handling. In CUPRA mode, the dampers become stiffer, reducing body lean and enhancing driving dynamics.

The CUPRA Raval provides traction and cornering beyond the norm for a vehicle of this category, and its CUPRA ‘one box’ electronic braking system optimises the pedal feel, improving braking via engine recovery. In addition, the CUPRA Raval comes equipped with front and rear disc brakes for maximum performance.

The top-of-the-line CUPRA Raval VZ (166kW) version takes it even further. Equipped with Dinamica Bucket seats, DCC Sport suspension with greater rigidity (+5%) to improve handling and roadholding, wider track width – 10mm wider than the platform – ESC OFF mode, 19’’ wheels with wider 235mm tyres and the electronic slip differential, it transforms every journey into a unique experience.

Exclusive to the VZ version, the electronic differential and sporty steering knuckles provide an advanced vehicle system that monitors driving conditions via sensors and uses a control unit to electronically manage torque distribution between the wheels to improve traction, stability and performance.

“With the arrival of the CUPRA Raval, we’re making a bold statement about what a compact, urban electric vehicle can be. It’s a car for those who crave emotion and differentiation, with all the benefits of electrification. To truly feel the thrill of the Raval, you have to get behind the wheel,” said Dr. Werner Tietz, VP of Research & Development at CUPRA.

The CUPRA Raval will be available in different trims with a variety of customisation options, giving every driver the opportunity to express their own ‘Raval Spirit’ and match their lifestyle. Whether they’re looking for extra power, a larger battery for extended range, or a balanced mix of both, there’s an option tailored to their needs.

During the market entry, three exclusive launch editions will be available, each embodying the essence of the model from a unique perspective. Each Launch edition of the CUPRA Raval has been created to deliver the brand’s DNA:

– VZ Extreme (166kW): The ultimate expression of performance. Blending uncompromised power with conscious innovation. Every detail is crafted to deliver exhilarating driving dynamics while embracing sustainable materials and technologies. It’s not just the most powerful version; it’s a statement of how performance and responsibility can move forward together, with a range of around 400km.

– Dynamic Plus (155kW): Combining dynamic driving emotions with exceptional comfort and technology, it comes equipped with Advanced ADAS, intelligent parking functions, Matrix LED headlights, bucket seats, and a high-fidelity 12-speaker audio system developed in collaboration with Sennheiser Mobility. It also delivers an extended range of around 450km.

– Dynamic (155kW): With the same advanced battery technology, dynamic handling, and a range of around 450km, it offers a more accessible way to experience the brand’s spirit — simplicity that drives emotion.

The CUPRA Raval will be launched in 2026, with price for the entry-level model from 26,000€, making this car a true category challenger, opening up electrification to a new audience that craves emotion and distinction.

The CUPRA Raval takes its name and spirit from one of Barcelona’s most iconic and dynamic districts. El Raval is a symbol of constant movement, raw energy and fearless urban character, the same values that define the essence of this new model. The design of the camouflage vinyl that disguises the cars for the exclusive pre-series test drives, also pays tribute to the district’s map, featuring its vibrant streets to capture its attitude and edge. Like the neighbourhood that inspired it, the CUPRA Raval was born to stand out and challenge convention.