Cupra has quickly established itself as an important player in the new car market, with the firm almost doubling its sales in 2022 compared to the previous year. 

It now sells more cars than brands like Jaguar and Lexus, despite having a relatively small line-up of models. Key to its growing success is the new Born – Cupra’s first electric car and one that is increasingly tempting buyers out of other more well-established brands. Here are five reasons to consider this electric hatchback. 

Great to drive

Cupra Born

The additional weight that electric cars offer, because of their heavier batteries, can often put a dampener on the driving experience of some EVs. However, Cupra has managed to make sure the Born still feels fun and lively behind the wheel. 

Though based on the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra has given its car a lower and sportier suspension setup, and the result is that it feels more agile and engaging. It’s not at hot hatch levels, but thanks to its rear-wheel-drive layout, it is genuinely enjoyable to pilot down a good stretch of tarmac. 

Modern and practical interior

Cupra Born

The Born has one of the most modern interiors of any car, particularly at this lower price point. The cabin is modern and minimalist, with few physical buttons. Instead, there’s a large touchscreen, digital dial display and fantastic head-up display on higher-spec models. 

Despite occupying a similar footprint to a model like the Volkswagen Golf, the Cupra offers far more in the way of cabin space, with a virtually flat floor in the back for rear passengers, as well as a useful boot. 

Long range model available

Cupra Born

Cupra offers a good amount of choice on the Born, including two battery packs. Even the smallest 58kWh option can manage up to a claimed 265 miles on a charge. 

But if you want to travel further, Cupra has you covered with a long-range 77kWh battery option. With this, the Born can travel for up to a claimed 343 miles on a charge – giving it one of the longest ranges of any compact EV.  Performance is also brisk, while 170kW DC rapid charging capability means that in ideal conditions, a five to 80 per cent charge can take just half an hour. 

Generous standard equipment

Cupra Born

If you want to get lots of features for your money, the Cupra Born is a fantastic option. The range begins with the V1, and even this comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, adaptive cruise control and a 12-inch touchscreen included as standard. 

If you want more, the V2 brings larger 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and the fantastic augmented reality head-up display. At the top of the line-up, the V3 packs striking 20-inch alloy wheels, along with Dinamica-trimmed bucket seats that are electrically adjustable and massaging. 

Striking design

Cupra Born

While using the Volkswagen ID.3 as its base, Cupra successfully gives the Born a more striking and sportier design than its VW sibling. 

Large alloy wheels are fitted as standard, while the copper detailing on the lower areas is a real talking point with the Born, as are its textured grille, C-pillar and rear diffuser. In an increasingly crowded market, this Cupra does more than enough to stand out from the crowd.