Cupra Born

Country of production

The Cupra Born is produced in Germany, at Volkswagen’s Zwickau plant (a hub dedicated to electric vehicles built on the MEB platform).

Market launch date

• September 2021: start of series production in Zwickau.

• Late 2021 – 2022: commercial launch across major European markets and progressive range expansion.

• 2022: introduction/consolidation of the e-Boost 231 hp variant (performance-focused positioning).

• 2024: launch of the Born VZ (range-topper with higher output and sport-focused hardware).

• 25 July 2025: publication of the European price list Model Year 2026 (range and trims rationalization).

Facelifts and key updates

• No “classic” structural facelift (bodywork refresh) has been officially confirmed so far.

• Evolution has been primarily through powertrains, batteries, and versions:

  • 2022: consolidation of the line-up with e-Boost 231 hp.

  • 2024: introduction of the Born VZ (performance upgrade plus chassis/content changes).

  • 2025: price list/trim update (simplified offer and revised equipment positioning).

• Late 2025: industry reports mention a potential styling update under test; it should be considered unconfirmed until an official announcement.

The Cupra Born is a 100% electric C-segment hatchback (5 doors/5 seats) with a more dynamic setup than many comfort-oriented MEB relatives. The recipe combines rear-wheel drive (on most versions), Cupra-specific chassis and steering calibration for a more responsive feel, and a modern cabin with advanced infotainment and a full ADAS suite. It is designed as an everyday EV, but with a clear sporty edge—especially in the 231 hp variants and, above all, the VZ.

Powertrain and performance

Note: several figures (especially WLTP range/consumption) vary by trim, wheel size, tyres, and homologation updates.

Dimensions and capacity

Main trims and prices (Indicative on-the-road list prices.  Model Year 2026 price list; they may vary due to promotions, options, and updates. IPT according to local regulations.)

Maintenance and early service (indicative costs)
(Estimates for a premium compact EV: high variability by network, city, tyres, and driving style.)

Pros

• Credible dynamic character: steering/chassis tuning feels more “Cupra” than many comparable EVs.

• Strong efficiency and high WLTP range with the larger battery (up to around 548 km WLTP).

• Charging capability aligned with the segment: AC 11 kW and DC up to ~165 kW (up to ~185 kW on VZ).

• Clear range structure (59 and 79 kWh) with a true flagship VZ.

Cons

• Premium EV pricing: packs and larger wheels can increase the final cost quickly.

• Typical EV mass: in aggressive driving it is noticeable versus lighter ICE hot hatches.

• Real-world range is sensitive to motorway speeds, temperatures, and larger wheel/tyre setups.

• Tyres/brakes can become a meaningful cost factor if the sporty side is used frequently (especially on VZ).

In summary

The Cupra Born is a compact EV positioned with a more sport-focused identity than the average: effective as a daily car, with an extra layer of driving enjoyment—particularly in the 231 hp versions and in the VZ. The 79 kWh (net) battery is the better fit for higher mileage drivers seeking reference-level range, while the VZ targets performance and character, accepting potentially higher energy use and wear costs when driven hard.

Verdict — Cupra Born (model year 2025)

The Cupra Born is one of the more “driver oriented” MEB-based electric compacts because it blends a modern hatchback layout with rear-wheel drive and a dynamic calibration aimed at control and engagement rather than pure efficiency. In 2025, the range becomes more legible: Impulse+ covers everyday use with two power levels (204 or 231 hp) and two net battery sizes (59 or 79 kWh), while the VZ raises the performance bar with 326 hp, higher torque, and more overtly sporty content (also on the infotainment and driver-assistance side).

The choice is not “only horsepower”: the 231 hp + 79 kWh pairing is often the most balanced if you want more real-world range without chasing the VZ’s peak performance. The VZ, instead, has a clearer mission: it is the Born for those who want the strongest sporty imprint, accepting higher costs and more demanding tires.

Key technical points:

• Powertrains, drivetrain and performance

  • Impulse+ 204 hp (150 kW): 0–100 7.7 s, top speed 160 km/h.

  • Impulse+ 231 hp (170 kW) with 59 kWh net: 0–100 6.7 s, top speed 160 km/h.

  • Impulse+ 231 hp (170 kW) with 79 kWh net: 0–100 7.1 s, top speed 160 km/h (more range-oriented focus).

  • Born VZ 326 hp (240 kW): 0–100 5.6 s, top speed 200 km/h, torque 545 Nm.

  • Architecture: rear-wheel drive, single-speed.

• Batteries, range and consumption

  • Batteries (capacity): 59 kWh net (63 gross) or 79 kWh net (84 gross).

  • WLTP range (min–max): 387–428 km (204 59), 379–427 km (231 59), 497–571 km (231 79), 530–595 km (VZ 79).

  • WLTP energy use (min–max): from 14.9 to 17.9 kWh/100 km depending on version/configuration.

• Charging

  • AC 11 kW: 0–100% 6 h 30 min (59 kWh) / 8 h 30 min (79 kWh).

  • DC 10–80%: 24 min (at 165 kW, 59 kWh) / 26 min (at 175 kW, 79 kWh).

  • Usage note: on trips, the charging curve matters more than the peak; planning remains important.

• Dimensions and practicality

  • Length 4,324 mm, width 1,809 mm, height 1,540 mm, wheelbase 2,766 mm.

  • Boot 385 L; 5-seat homologation.

  • Curb weight: about 1,841–1,999 kg depending on version.

• Mid-cycle updates (2024–2025 content)

  • With the VZ: a more sport-oriented approach, steering/chassis updates, 12.9" infotainment, ADAS evolution (Travel Assist with cloud functions on specific implementations).

Who it is for

Drivers who want an electric compact with a more “sporty” and communicative driving feel than average, without giving up 5-door practicality. It is especially well-suited to those who mix city driving with extra-urban routes and want a BEV that is not purely rational.

Who should consider alternatives

If your priority is maximizing ride comfort and “saloon-like” quietness, or if you do a lot of motorway driving and want even faster charging, consider alternatives more oriented to touring or with more aggressive charging architectures. If you want the lowest price for the same battery/segment, a more mainstream proposition may be better value.

Recommended configuration

• Impulse+ 231 hp with 79 kWh net battery: the most balanced choice if you want high range and more than enough performance.

• Impulse+ 231 hp with 59 kWh: ideal if you charge often and want more punch than the 204 without moving too far up in price.

• Born VZ 326 hp (79 kWh): for those seeking the most sporty and complete Born, accepting more demanding tires/consumables.

• Impulse+ 204 hp (59 kWh): if the goal is to enter the Born range with the most straightforward configuration and mostly urban daily use.