Design Update
Cupra once again demonstrates why its versions of Volkswagen cars often look more convincing than the originals. The Spanish brand has announced an updated version of the Born, the sportier interpretation of the VW ID.3, whose full look we will see on March 5.
The most noticeable changes concern the exterior. The updated Born will receive a new signature Cupra styling, including triangular matrix LED headlights and corresponding triangular graphics for the rear light equipment. An illuminated rear logo will also appear, which has become a new trend in automotive design.
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Spy photos of camouflaged prototypes have already surfaced earlier, hinting at updated bumpers and a higher lower grille, complemented by vertical side air vents. This is intended to give the electric car a more aggressive and wider appearance.
Technology Update
The Born’s interior already makes the ID.3’s interior less expressive, and Cupra promises even higher quality materials and more technology in the updated model. However, the brand has little to change radically in this regard, as back in 2024 the car received a significantly improved 12.9-inch touchscreen from Volkswagen.
Technical Features
Under the hood, familiar technologies are likely to remain, as Cupra does not confirm any technical changes. The current version of the Born is already competitive in terms of range and performance in its class. Therefore, this update is most likely focused on emotions and style, rather than additional kilowatts. Although a slight power increase wouldn’t hurt either.
Currently, Cupra skips the basic low-power engine versions available in the VW ID.3 and offers immediately a single-motor powertrain with 228 hp with a choice of a 59 or 79 kWh battery. This provides a range of up to 570 km. For fans of hot hatchbacks, there is the Born VZ version, an analogue of the ID.3 GTX, with a 322 hp motor, which also drives only the rear wheels.
The Cupra Born update continues the trend where Volkswagen Group’s sporty sub-brands offer more expressive and technologically equipped versions based on regular models. This allows them to attract a new audience looking not just for an electric car, but for driving emotions. The success of this strategy for Cupra could influence the further development of other brands in the group, particularly their approaches to the design and equipment of their mass-market models. The electric hatchback market is becoming increasingly fierce, and such updates help models stay relevant without the need for deep technical modernization.