Cupra Born first drive | a sportier take on VW's proven EV platform

Cupra has kicked off its electrification journey with the new Born, a VW ID3-based hatchback that promises a sportier flair.

It’s the second model from the brand that’s not derived from a Seat, although the original 2019 concept – known then as the El Born – was revealed wearing Seat badges.

Visually, the Born and ID3 have a lot in common, although this is more than just a re-badging exercise. Cupra has managed to give the car its own identity, with sharper and more aggressive styling and an interior that’s more in keeping with a ‘sporty’ brand.

Cupra’s signature copper detailing can be found both inside and out, while there’s a choice of alloy wheels in sizes up to 20 inches and bucket-style seats to accentuate the car’s character.

The Born has three powertrain configurations – a 204PS model that uses a 58kWh battery, giving a 264-mile range; the e-Boost – effectively the same powertrain with an upgrade to 230PS; and a longer range model, with a 77kWh battery, utilising the same 230PS motor. The first two can manage 264 miles between charges while the third can cover 340
miles.

An entry-level car with a 45kWh battery and 150PS will be offered later in the year. We tested the 204PS and found it suitably brisk, managing 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds.

Cupra engineers have overhauled the suspension and steering to improve the driving experience offered by the ID3 and the changes provide a welcome layer of driveability to the platform. Despite its lower and stiffer set-up, the Born remains smooth and unflustered. We were impressed with its motorway cruising ability and quiet cabin, but equally enjoyed the drive on more demanding country lanes. Even on 20-inch wheels, our test car remained compliant on rougher surfaces.

When we set off with a full charge, the car’s 58kWh battery was promising just 160 miles of range, somewhat short of the 264 suggested under WLTP. On a 60-mile trip the Born’s computer was showing consumption of three miles per kWh, although we’d expect this to creep up slightly in day-to-day driving.

Like the ID3, the Born’s interior is minimalist and spacious. The dashboard mainly consists of a 12-inch multimedia screen, which looks after all the key functions. There’s a frustrating touch-sensitive panel for the audio volume and temperature control.

We weren’t enamoured by the digital experience and found the touchscreen sluggish and fiddly to use, especially when driving. The touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel are also a bit tricky to use, at first, but we got used to them quite quickly.

Pretty much all the equipment you’ll need comes as standard on the V1 trim level, including LED headlights, sat-nav, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and reversing camera.

Prices start at £34,660, for the 204PS V1, which is about the same as an equivalent Hyundai Kona and considerably cheaper than a Mercedes-Benz EQA.

Cars with the larger battery start at £40,160.

The Born impressed us with its balance of specification and driveability, when compared with its rivals. Having been won over by the ID3, the Born raises the game further and cements VW Group’s platform as a force to be reckoned with.