Car of the Year Awards 2025: Best small electric car to drive
This class embraces nimble city cars and family hatchbacks, as long as they are no more than 4.5 metres long...
Cupra Born 59kWh e-boost 230 V1
Perhaps it's best to think of the Cupra Born as a Volkswagen ID 3 that’s had a double espresso or two, because while they share underpinnings, the model from the Spanish brand feels noticeably more energised and sharper to drive.
With plenty of grip, tidy body control and quick, precise steering, the Born is also more engaging to drive than the MG 4 and Renault Megane. All versions of the Born now come with the more powerful ‘e-boost’ electric motor as standard, bumping output up to 228bhp (compared with the previous standard version’s 201bhp) and cutting the 0-62mph time to 6.7sec.
Even with this level of performance, the Born has a respectable official range of 265 miles (in our preferred entry-level V1 trim); that should be enough for most buyers.
True, the Born is a lot pricier than the Renault 5, but you get a lot for your money; it’s more refined than the MG 4 and roomier inside than the R5.
Inside, a pair of grippy, figure-hugging front seats do a great job of holding you in place when driving spiritedly, while Cupra’s signature use of copper highlights gives the interior a classy feel.
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