New Cupra Born vs Volkswagen ID 3: verdict
The new Cupra Born has a lot going for it, being closely related to the five-star Volkswagen ID 3. But which is the better electric car?...
Our verdict
If you’re looking for an electric family hatchback, the Born and ID 3 both offer plenty of space, performance, comfort and battery range. Given how similar they are, choosing a winner is a case of splitting hairs, with the Born just edging ahead by a whisker.
How? Well, it’s all down to detail. The interior looks and feels a touch more special, while being slightly more user-friendly for the driver. In addition, the Born is a little more polished to drive. Make no mistake: choosing the ID 3 isn’t going to be a decision you’ll regret. The Born simply feels like it has arrived fashionably late to the party, having spent more time perfecting its ensemble.
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1st – Cupra Born
For More fun to drive; quieter at speed; classier inside; better infotainment; just as spacious and practical as the ID 3
Against Firmer low-speed ride; more suspension noise over bumps
Recommended options Heat pump (£925)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full Cupra Born review >>
Find Cupra Born deals >>
2nd – Volkswagen ID 3
For Fine ride/handling balance; better rear seat comfort for long journeys; brighter interior ambience
Against Feels cheap in places inside; poor infotainment; controls are tricky to use
Recommended options Heat pump (£1020)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Volkswagen ID 3 review >>
Find Volkswagen ID 3 deals >>
Specifications: Cupra Born 58kWh V2
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 201bhp
Peak torque 229Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.9sec
30-70mph 6.3sec
Top speed 99mph
30-0mph 8.9m
70-0mph 49.4m
Noise at 30mph 60.4db
Noise at 70mph 66.0db
Kerb weight 1738kg
Tyre size (std) 215/50 R19
Estimated range 191 miles
Official range 263 miles
Efficiency 3.3 mile/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 58kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 120kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 9hr 15min
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 37min
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen ID 3 Pro Performance Family
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 201bhp
Peak torque 229Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.0sec
30-70mph 6.4sec
Top speed 99mph
30-0mph 9.1m
70-0mph 47.0m
Noise at 30mph 61.4db
Noise at 70mph 67.2db
Kerb weight 1805kg
Tyre size (std) 215/55 R18
Estimated range 185 miles
Official range 260 miles
Efficiency 3.2 mile/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 58kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 120kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 9hr 15min
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 37min
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Test weather conditions Dry and cold
Cars pictured
Cupra Born 58kWh in Spanish spec with Vapor Grey paint
Volkswagen ID 3 Pro Performance Family with Stonewashed Blue metallic paint (£645) and 18in alloy wheels (£650)
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