The Born Supremacy - Cupra’s Renewed Hatchback
Cupra has given it’s ID.3 based electric car a significant update for 2026, with refreshed looks embracing the latest design language from the Spanish brand.
Externally, the changes show newly designed bumpers front and rear, new Matrix LED lights with a triangular theme and a Cupra logo that is illuminated and integrated into the rear light bar.
For those who critique illuminated badges, this actually works well on the Cupra thanks to some subtle design cues.
Cupra Born’s new rear design with LED light bar and illuminated badge
On the inside there’s a brand-new steering wheel with real buttons. The door cards have received a refresh with new materials, new inserts and ambient lighting, all of which adds to an aura of premiumness with higher quality materials.
The driver's display is larger at 10.5-inches and is now supported by an augmented reality head-up display.
And what will be music to the ears is an enhanced sound system with "Sennheiser Contrabass technology to deliver an immersive bass performance".
New Cupra Born interior resplendent with steering wheel buttons
Cupra states there are now four motor-battery options to choose from with launch control and one-pedal driving being made available.
All Cupra’s come with 11 kW onboard AC chargers and the 79 kwh battery version can charge on the DC rapid chargers at up to 185 kW providing a 26 minute 10-80% rapid charge.
There’s no info yet on the DC charger for the 59 kWh version, but expect it to be similar to the VW ID.3 which charges at 165 kW on a DC rapid charger.
The top spec VZ only comes with the larger 79 kWh battery for a range of 372 miles and is powered by a 240kW (326PS) motor.
The V1 and V2 trim have a choice of a 79 kWh battery mated to a 170kW (231PS) motor, or the 59 kWh battery with a 140kW (190PS) motor providing a very respectable 279 miles of range.
Theres no word on prices yet, but the outgoing model starts at £35,690 for the V1 rising to £44,820 for the VZ.
———
About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.