The Cupra Born is a sport electric vehicle that has caught the attention of many people, due to its impressive features and value for money. The Cupra Born priced at just $59,990, it gives an official range of 548 km per charge, which is more than the base model of the Tesla Model 3. So, why don’t we see these cars everywhere? Let’s talk about this.
Cupra Born: Performance and Range
At first, the performance metrics of the Cupra Born seem very much exceptional. It features a good battery pack with 82 kWh capacity, of which 77 kWh is usable. This impressive setup contributes to its notable range, although real-world driving conditions in New Zealand might reduce that figure. While the official range is 548 km based on the WLTP cycle, you might want to take off about 15% for realistic expectations. This still leaves you with a commendable 465 km of driving range, which is quite impressive for an electric vehicle.
When it comes to performance, the Cupra Born packs 170 kW of power with 310 Nm of torque at the rear wheels, but there’s a curious absence of the 0 to 100 km/h time in the manufacturer’s specifications. This omission raises questions—is it a poorly performing vehicle, or is it merely a detail they want drivers to discover for themselves? Regardless, initial acceleration feels responsive, and the overall driving experience is commendable.
Cupra Born: Technology and Gadgets
Inside the Cupra Born, they provide a 12-inch touchscreen display that controls nearly every aspect of the car from air conditioning to audio settings. This includes automatic parking features, which is a great addition for those who may struggle with parallel parking. However, it’s worth noting that while it supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the connectivity is wired, not wireless.
The Cupra Born includes dual-zone climate control, multiple USB ports, and wireless phone charging. The car is also equipped with LED headlights and a bird’s-eye camera system for parking assistance. However, a few quirks in the gadgetry might frustrate users. For instance, the window controls are managed in a way that requires pressing a button to operate the back windows, which can be easy.
Comfort and Seating
Comfort is another key area where the Cupra Born shines. The seats are designed with soft, recycled materials, providing a comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers. The sporty design features thick bolsters that keep you secure while still allowing for a reasonable degree of movement. However, all adjustments for the seats are manual, lacking electronic controls, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. The boot space is also practical, offering 385 liters, and the rear seats can fold down for additional space. There’s even a handy cubby hole for storing the charger, which is a thoughtful touch.
Cupra Born: Charging and Efficiency
The Cupra Born is comparatively good when it comes to charging. It can handle 7 kW AC charging, which is practical for most home setups, taking about 11 hours for a full charge. For faster charging, it supports 11 kW, although many homes in New Zealand may not have the necessary three-phase power for this. On the DC side, it maxes out at 175 kW, which is competitive for its price range.
In real-world testing, one user reported charging from 8% to 80% in just 37 minutes at a rapid charger, hitting 111 kW for a significant portion of that time. This performance is more than acceptable for a vehicle in this price segment.
Driving Experience
When it comes to driving, the Cupra Born offers a good and comfortable ride. The suspension handles bumps with ease compared to some competitors like the Tesla, which can feel harsher on the same roads. The long wheelbase contributes to a stable driving experience, making it feel more like a larger vehicle.
There are multiple driving modes to choose from, including Comfort, Performance, and Range modes. While Comfort mode is ideal for city driving, Performance mode offers a more engaging experience on open roads. However, it’s worth noting that the Cupra Born lacks lane-keeping assist, a feature found in some cheaper vehicles.
The Cupra Born is good and attractive. The design of this Cupra Born is enough good, complemented by 19-inch wheels known as “Copper Typhoon”. The exterior is designed with some recycled elements, including the interior fabric made from ocean waste, which is a commendable move towards sustainability.
Conclusion: Is the Cupra Born Worth It?
Overall, the Cupra Born is a compelling option for anyone in the market for an electric vehicle. It combines an impressive range, a solid tech package, and a comfortable driving experience, all at a competitive price. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the limited interior color options and the touchscreen controls, the overall package is strong.
So, why isn’t the Cupra Born more popular? Unfortunately, word of mouth hasn’t spread fast enough, or potential buyers are still unaware of its existence. But once Kiwis discover the Cupra Born, it’s likely we’ll see more of these stylish electric vehicles on the roads.
Hi. I’m Sahariar Ahmed. I’m passionate about Technology, Automobile, and Electric Vehicle (EV). I’ve done my graduation in Mechanical Engineering from Daffodil International University. I love content writing and exploring tech products.
