Cupra presents the more powerful Born VZ

The Seat brand Cupra has presented the Born VZ, a more powerful version of its electric model. In addition to the higher performance, the compact MEB model will also impress with more dynamic handling - and a slightly different look both inside and out. (UPDATE BELOW)

The drive delivers 240 kW of power – according to Cupra, an increase of 40 per cent compared to the e-Boost version with a peak output of 170 kW. Torque has also been increased to 545 Nm – 75 per cent more than in all other versions of the Born. However, Cupra does not mention in the press release whether this is an electric all-wheel drive with a second electric motor on the front axle or whether it is still rear-wheel drive. However, the torque figure of 545 Nm strongly suggests that it uses the VW APP550 electric motor, which is also installed in the other updated MEB models – albeit with an output of 210 kW.

The battery pack has been improved and now offers a net capacity of 79 kWh (plus 2 kWh), which will be enough for a range of up to 570 kilometres, according to WLTP. AC charging is still possible with a maximum of 11 kW, while the EV can now charge with up to 185 kW DC, “meaning a fast charge from 10 to 80 per cent would take within 30 minutes.”

In addition to the adapted drive, the chassis has also been optimised. With the Born VZ – the abbreviation stands for Veloz in Spanish, which means “fast” – Cupra has focused on better driving dynamics and speaks of a “new DCC Sport suspension, responsive steering behaviour, and improved brake pedal feeling, as well as a robust rear brake, come together to create a superior dynamic performance.” The top speed also increased from 160 to 200 kph, and the Born VZ completes the standard sprint from a standstill to 100 kph in 5.7 seconds – one second faster than the previous Born.

Exclusively for the Born VZ, there is a special colour called “Dark Forest,” the dark green seen in the pictures. A new “Midnight Black” will follow in autumn but will then be available for all Born variants. The VZ is also distinguished by new 20-inch rims and wider tyres at the rear (8 inches wide instead of 7.5 inches). In the interior, the Born VZ comes ex works with cup bucket seats in the front (“CUPBucket seats”). The familiar CUPRA sports bucket seats will also be available as an option for more comfort-orientated customers. The Born VZ also features a 12.9-inch infotainment display with a touchscreen. The previous model has a twelve-inch display.

The Cupra Born VZ should launch at the end of the third quarter of 2024, with ordering books expected to open in the second quarter of 2024. Cupra has yet to announce prices.

Update 29 February 2024

Cupra UK is reducing the price of its fully electric Born model by £2,350 across the range. Pricing for the Cupra Born now starts at £34,125. Furthermore, the company writes that “The £2,350 price reduction will be available for both new factory orders and orders from stock, including the trims and batteries that are now closed for new factory orders. Pricing for CUPRA Born VZ to be announced shortly.”

Update 23 July 2024

The high-performance version of the Cupra Born, the Born VZ, can now be ordered in the UK. Prices start at £44,625. According to the manufacturer, it offers 75 per cent more power and torque than any other Born version.

“The Cupra Born is an incredibly popular model, and we’re thrilled with the impact it has made as our first all-electric offering,” says Marcus Gossen, Director of Seat and Cupra UK. “At Cupra, we continuously strive to exceed expectations, and the Born VZ does exactly that. More power, enhanced refinement, and builds upon the strengths of an already exceptional car.”

cupra-media.com, cupra-media.co.uk, cupraofficial.co.uk (configurator)