Cupra Born hatchback - Electric motor, drive & performance

The Cupra Born is arguably one of the first electric hot hatchbacks on sale. Cupra was previously known for hotted-up versions of existing SEAT models, and that sporty know-how has definitely worked its way into the EV’s DNA.

The Born is based on the Volkswagen ID.3, and feels quite similar as a result. That’s no bad thing – the ID.3 is a predictable and relatively engaging car to drive – but we do wonder if Cupra could’ve made its first electric car feel a bit more special.

That’s not to say that the Born isn’t fun to drive. Its chunky kerbweight is negated by the low-mounted batteries and it has a near-perfect weight distribution across the two axles. The ride is on the firm side, but entry-level V1 cars ride best on their smaller 18-inch wheels; the Born is rarely uncomfortable, but can feel unsettled over particularly rough roads. The upside of the stiff structure is that it remains almost completely flat during faster cornering.

The brakes in electric cars can sometimes feel a little odd but pedal feel isn't an issue in the Born. It's also accomplished when you get to a winding stretch of road, with precise steering that feels sharp without making the car too nervous or twitchy. 

Overall then, the Born does a good job of feeling like a slightly sportier take on the Volkswagen ID.3, especially in Cupra mode. This gives the steering extra weight, helping the Born feel even more unflappable. In September 2023 a VZ version was confirmed, and this is expected to the sportiest model so far, with performance and handling tweaks.

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Cupra Born electric motor

The 58kWh car has a generous 201bhp, with a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive. This enables a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds and, despite the Born being heavier than an equivalent petrol car, we thought it felt quick enough.

It's also available with 'e-Boost' which temporarily increases power to 228bhp, cutting the acceleration time to 6.6 seconds. As with many EVs, acceleration is most impressive up to about 40mph, but the Born still has plenty of power at motorway speeds. The VZ version is expected to get a small power bump to 237bhp, making it the fastest Cupra Born yet.

Cars with the 77kWh battery get the e-Boost function as standard, but the heavier battery means it sits in between the two 58kWh cars in terms of straight-line speed – accelerating from 0-62mph in seven seconds dead. As with any Born, though, instant torque gives it electrifying performance away from the line.