Feistier Cupra Born VZ gets 322bhp and sports suspension – yours for £45k

• 322bhp electric hot hatchback
• 372 miles of range
• On sale now from £44,625

UK pricing has been confirmed for the latest entrant in the electric hot hatchback segment, the new Cupra Born VZ, and it’s available to order now. Prices start from £44,625, making the Born VZ roughly £6,000 more expensive than a Volkswagen Golf GTI, but a whole £20,000 less than the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

The Cupra Born VZ promises to deliver hot-hatchback performance combined with the smooth and quiet driving experience typical of an EV. During our in-depth review we thought it lived up to that claim, delivering a fun driving experience when you wanted it, while still being comfortable enough to drive everyday.

What do I need to know about the Cupra Born VZ?

The Cupra Born is based on the Volkswagen ID.3 hatchback, but we think it’s actually the better of the two cars thanks to its funky styling and plusher interior. In addition to the VZ’s 20-inch alloy wheels and exclusive green paint, there’s a whole host of upgrades under the skin that add up to a more exciting experience behind the wheel. 

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For starters, the rear-mounted electric motor now puts out 322bhp, up from the 228bhp of the standard car. Its acceleration performance has improved as a result, with the 0-62mph sprint now done and dusted in 5.6 seconds – 0.3 seconds ahead of the Volkswagen Golf GTI. To handle the extra power, the Born VZ gets lower suspension, upgraded brakes and tweaked steering. 

The Born VZ isn’t just the fastest model in the lineup – it’s also got the longest range. Thanks to a 79kWh battery it can travel up to 372 miles on a charge, up from the 340 miles of the regular Born. Recharging should be fairly quick, too, with rapid charging speeds topping out at 185kW DC.

How much does the Cupra Born VZ cost and when can I buy one?

Prices start from £44,625 for the Cupra Born VZ. While that looks expensive on paper – it’s nearly £10,000 more than the entry-level Cupra Born – there are few electric hot hatchbacks to choose from in 2024. The Abarth 500e is cheaper but can’t match the Born VZ for performance, while the 621bhp Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a much costlier proposition at £65,000.

Why not read up on the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX, VW’s hot twin to the Cupra Born VZ?