CUPRA Born 170 kW – 59 kWh

# CUPRA Born 170 kW – 59 kWh: Complete Review and Specifications

CUPRA Born Overview

The CUPRA Born represents a premium compact electric hatchback that bridges the gap between practical everyday driving and engaging performance. Positioned as a stylish alternative to mainstream EVs like the Volkswagen ID.3, the CUPRA Born targets buyers seeking a distinctive design with genuine driving dynamics rather than pure practicality. The 170 kW e-Boost variant with the 59 kWh battery delivers an excellent balance of range, charging speed, and affordability for private buyers and company car drivers alike.

The CUPRA Born distinguishes itself through its rear-wheel-drive architecture and performance-focused engineering. Unlike many competitors that prioritize efficiency over engagement, the CUPRA Born combines impressive efficiency with responsive handling characteristics. The e-Boost performance pack provides instantaneous electric torque delivery, making the CUPRA Born feel more dynamic than its rivals. This electric family hatchback appeals to drivers who refuse to compromise on driving experience while transitioning to zero-emission motoring.

The CUPRA Born matters in today’s EV landscape because it proves that electric vehicles don’t need to sacrifice personality for practicality. With a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and real-world efficiency exceeding 4 miles per kWh, the CUPRA Born offers genuine value. The model’s relatively affordable entry point—starting under £35,700—makes premium electric driving accessible to a broader audience.

CUPRA Born Performance and Driving Experience

The CUPRA Born 170 kW variant delivers spirited acceleration with its rear-mounted electric motor producing 231 horsepower. The e-Boost performance pack enables maximum power delivery for short bursts under full throttle, providing that satisfying electric surge familiar to performance EV enthusiasts. The 0-62 mph acceleration of 6.7 seconds positions the CUPRA Born ahead of comparable rivals like the Peugeot e-308 and Renault Megane E-Tech, offering noticeably quicker performance than most competitors in its class.

Handling characteristics benefit from the CUPRA Born’s rear-wheel-drive layout and optional DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) suspension. The low center of gravity from floor-mounted batteries enhances cornering stability, while the responsive steering provides genuine feedback. Real-world driving impressions consistently highlight the CUPRA Born’s engaging nature—it feels more like a traditional sports hatchback than a typical EV, with immediate throttle response and predictable weight distribution.

CUPRA Born Range and Battery Specifications

The CUPRA Born 59 kWh battery delivers an official WLTP range of 259-264 miles, with real-world testing confirming approximately 240-250 miles under typical driving conditions. The CUPRA Born’s exceptional efficiency—rated at 3.9-4.1 miles per kWh—means you’ll consistently achieve better real-world range than official figures suggest. Independent testing has recorded over 5 miles per kWh in optimal conditions, making the CUPRA Born one of the most efficient compact EVs available.

The 59 kWh usable capacity represents a practical sweet spot for daily commuting and weekend trips. Battery chemistry utilizes modern lithium-ion technology optimized for both rapid charging and longevity. Range varies based on driving style, weather conditions, and terrain—aggressive acceleration and cold temperatures will reduce range by 15-20%, while gentle highway driving in mild weather can exceed official estimates.

CUPRA Born Charging Times and Options

The CUPRA Born 59 kWh variant supports DC fast charging at up to 165 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 24 minutes at compatible rapid chargers. This makes the CUPRA Born practical for road trips and quick top-ups during longer journeys. Home charging with a standard 7 kW Level 2 charger takes approximately 9 hours for a complete 0-100% charge, making overnight charging convenient for daily use.

The CUPRA Born integrates with CUPRA’s Charging Service through the My CUPRA app, providing simplified billing and access to multiple charging networks. The right-rear charge port location accommodates most public charging infrastructure. For company car drivers, the CUPRA Born’s rapid charging capability reduces downtime compared to slower-charging competitors.

CUPRA Born vs Competitors

The CUPRA Born competes directly with the Volkswagen ID.3, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Renault Megane E-Tech. Compared to the ID.3, the CUPRA Born offers superior styling and more engaging driving dynamics while sharing the same MEB platform. Against the Ioniq 6, the CUPRA Born provides better real-world efficiency and faster acceleration, though the Ioniq 6 offers slightly more range with larger batteries. The CUPRA Born undercuts the Megane E-Tech on price while delivering comparable performance and superior efficiency ratings. The CUPRA Born’s 6.7-second 0-62 time beats most competitors in this segment, making it the performance choice for efficiency-conscious buyers.