Cupra Born long-term test: report 13
When we first tested the Cupra Born we were so impressed that we named it Small Electric Car of the Year. But does it continue to impress when you live with it every day?...
The car Cupra Born 58kWh V3 150kW Run by James Tute, senior sub-editor
Why we’re running it To see if our Small Electric Car of the Year still makes sense as commuter and leisure transport if you don't have access to a home charger
Needs to Deliver on the promise of a fun driving experience, low running costs and good practicality, while having enough range for weekend getaways
Mileage 6552 List price £40,150 Target Price £40,150 Price as tested £40,150 Official range 250 miles Test range 203 miles
22 February 2023 – Get a grip
I’d heard lots of good things about the Cupra Born before I took delivery, but one feature in particular kept cropping up: “It’s got a lovely steering wheel!”
So, after thousands of miles gripping that wheel, do I think it’s lived up to the hype? Well, ignoring the infuriating controls on the spokes (covered in a previous report), yes, I do.
Its perforated leather wrapping and reassuring chunkiness make it very comfortable to use, and it looks smart and sporty too. Bronze stitching runs around the inside edge to match the bronze Cupra logo in the centre, and the plastic sections feel solid and durable.
Better still, that wheel just keeps on turning – I’ve found the tight 10.2m turning circle invaluable for easing the Born into a tight parking space or getting it close enough to a charger to plug in.
It turns out all the hype was justified.
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