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.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
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)
