Cupra Born VZ: A New-Age Hot Hatch with Old-School Tricks
Introduction:
Press presentations for new cars are typically filled with marketing jargon and technical specifications, but the presentation for the Cupra Born VZ was refreshingly different. It was given by Jordi Gene, an ex-World Touring Car Championship driver turned performance car development engineer. Gene’s expertise and passion for performance cars made this presentation stand out. The Cupra Born VZ is the hot hatch version of the standard Born hatchback, and it aims to be taken seriously as an electric vehicle (EV) with impressive handling and performance.
Design & Styling:
The Cupra Born VZ has a powerful and purposeful appearance, with subtle enhancements to the sporty-looking donor car. It features two 20-inch alloy wheel options, including a forged option, and wider wheels both front and rear. The color options include the unique ‘Dark Forest’ and the classic ‘Midnight Black,’ complemented by Cupra’s signature copper trim. The interior of the Born VZ is equipped with supportive bucket seats, trimmed in high-quality natural fibers. The steering wheel has paddle shifts for adjusting regenerative braking levels, and there is a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen display. While the interior blends sportiness and technology well, some users may prefer more physical controls alongside the touchscreen.
Engines & Performance:
The dynamic changes made to the Born VZ are extensive compared to the standard model. The rear-mounted motor has been upgraded from 228bhp to 322bhp, with torque increased from 229lb ft to 402lb ft. This translates to a faster acceleration time of 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 124mph. The tuning of the brake pedal is a notable improvement in performance electric cars, where traditional brakes and regenerative braking need to be balanced. The Born VZ’s brakes have a unique feel, with an initial deadness before they bite. The absence of noise in the electric vehicle is also a point of discussion, as some users find it disconcerting.