Cupra Born 2025 review – performance and 0-62 time
All Borns are quick off the mark, but the powertrain runs out of steam at higher speeds
Unless you’re in the more potent VZ, performance is pretty even across all Born models. The 203bhp 58kWh version reached 60mph in 7.3sec, with the 228bhp 58kWh e-Boost shaving seven tenths from that time. The extra weight of the 77kWh model does take the edge off the Born’s straight-line punch, but it still achieves a respectable 7sec 0-62mph sprint.
The e-Boost function injects just a little more pep into the Born’s already strong initial acceleration; it’s good for a quick overtake, but as the speeds rise the acceleration tails off noticeably as is typical with most EVs.
In the smaller battery model without the e-Boost function the performance bleeds off earlier still, hitting an invisible brick wall as you reach motorway speeds, pegging your progress but aiding your range. If you were to venture on track (not that we’d recommend this), the lack of top-end acceleration and a 99mph top speed would make you crave a Cupra Leon within a lap.
What about the VZ? Well, VZ is short for ‘Veloz’ which means fast in Spanish. A 5.6sec 0-62mph time is perfectly respectable in the general scheme of things and the instantaneous arrival of that 402lb ft punch does give you a kick in the back, whether accelerating from a standstill or running from 40mph to 70mph on a motorway slip road. It’s more performance than any ‘normal’ car needs but conversely, is as typical with EVs, not delivered with much personality.
