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In-depth reviews

Cupra Born 2025 review – range and running costs

More than 200 miles is easily achievable from a full charge, with the flagship Born breaking over 300 miles

Evo rating
RRP
from £34,190
  • More engaging than an ID.3
  • The MG4 is better value

Cupra quotes a maximum official range of 264 miles for the entry-level Born with the smaller battery, which is unremarkable in 2025. Bump up to the 77kWh battery and you get a respectable 348 miles, which will be more in the range of 290 with real-world use. Get the VZ if you want the most battery and therefore, the most theoretical range (a maximum of 372 miles). 

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We say theoretical because with more power comes more thirst. We saw a square 300 with mixed (but not overly aggressive) use. The efficiency for the size of battery the Born is working with, is good. You’ll rarely see below three miles per kWh in any Born. Some way short of the claimed figure, but that’s also without driving with any conscious attempt to conserve energy. Switching to the most efficient Range drive mode is necessary to squeeze a few more miles from the battery.

Charging rates vary depending on the battery size but have risen with the updates the Born received last year. Even the base level Born with a 59kWh battery now will charge at 165kW. The 77kWh battery can be charged at a 175kW maximum, while the 79kWh can charge at 185kW. An important running cost to consider is tax. Some Cupra Borns will be subject to the ‘expensive car supplement’, which EVs are no longer exempt from.

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