The Cupra Born, the first electric model from the VW Group brand, has just taken a more sporty turn with the arrival of the VZ version, which brings 326 hp of power and a maximum torque of 545 Nm, that is, 75% more than any other version of the Born.
Numbers that make the Born VX a 100% electric hot hatch reference, considering that it is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and reaching a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
The electric motor that transmits power to the rear wheels is powered by a 79 kWh usable capacity battery (plus 2 kWh). In addition, the technology maintains versatility of use: the battery can be recharged at home using an 11 kW AC system or at fast charging points of 185 kW DC, where it will take less than 30 minutes for a charge between 10 and 80%, and allows a maximum range of up to 599 km on a single charge.
Cupra has also announced that it has improved the chassis of the Born VZ to ensure better dynamics. In addition, the model has been equipped with a new DCC Sport suspension, which allows for more reactive steering and better brake pedal sensitivity, as well as a more powerful rear brake.
The rear axle of the Born VZ features new shock absorbers and suspensions combined with updated adjustments of the front shock absorber valves and an enhanced suspension design, including also updated stabilizer bars. These improvements result in the DCC Sport suspension that provides better body control and is capable of absorbing and smoothing out road irregularities. The Cupra Born VZ driving package has also been updated with new hardware and software to make it more sporty.
In the interior, the highlight is the CUP Bucket seats, standard, placed in a lower position to provide greater ergonomics and a more sporty character. In the case of the Cupra Born VZ, the CUP Bucket seats are made of recycled Seaqual Yarn fabric, as well as Dinamica upholstery with 73% recycled polyester.
Behind the steering wheel are the regenerative paddles that allow you to choose between three different levels of energy recovery. Also noteworthy is the redesigned gear selector, positioned on the steering column behind the wheel.
The Cupra Born VZ goes further in digitalization, benefiting from a new and larger infotainment system with a 12.9″ floating screen (7% larger than the current Born), which combines the advantages of touchscreen controls with a new backlit touch bar to adjust the climate and volume.
Furthermore, it also offers an optional high-fidelity sound system with 10 speakers, developed in collaboration with Sennheiser Mobility.
In terms of driving assistance and comfort, the Born VZ is equipped with the new Connected Travel Assist which combines Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Lane Assist (keeps the vehicle in the center of the lane).
The 100% electric model also includes the new Remote Park Assist system that allows the driver to complete the parking maneuver with the smartphone, while the Trained Parking Assist system makes the vehicle learn to park in usual places, storing the characteristics and route on a map. The driver also benefits from a Top View camera that offers a 360º view of the vehicle and its surroundings.The set of security and convenience technologies also includes Side Assist for protection against vehicles in the blind spot or approaching rapidly, Front Light Assist to automatically control headlight functionality, Dynamic Road Sign Display to interpret traffic signs, and Exit Warning for obstacles when exiting while parked.
“The Cupra Born was crucial for the brand when we launched the model in 2021 as the first 100% electric vehicle. And the response was remarkable, with 45,300 units sold last year, an increase of 44.4% compared to the previous year.”, says Wayne Griffiths, CEO of Cupra. “With the Born VZ, we will further enhance the performance of this model, and prove once again that when combined with electrification they are the perfect combination.”
Cupra has already announced that the new Born VZ will arrive in the national market in the third quarter, right after summer.
