- The Cupra Born is a compact electric vehicle based on the VW ID.3 platform, featuring more attractive styling and premium interior materials, with a 2026 facelift planned to enhance these qualities further.
- The updated model will showcase a more aggressive and sporty appearance through redesigned front grille, bumpers, lighting systems, and an improved rear diffuser.
- Currently offering powertrains ranging from 201hp to 322hp (VZ model) with up to 366 miles of range, it combines both performance and practicality in the electric vehicle segment.
Electric vehicle enthusiasts have long praised the Cupra Born as a standout in the compact EV segment. While the Volkswagen ID.3 serves as a solid foundation, Cupra has transformed it into something more visually striking and premium through enhanced styling and superior interior appointments. Now, an upcoming mid-cycle update promises to elevate these qualities even further.
The relationship between the VW ID.3 and Cupra Born goes beyond typical platform sharing found across the VW Group lineup. These vehicles are so closely related that their doors are completely interchangeable. Although the upcoming 2026 refresh won’t alter the door panels themselves, significant modifications are planned for the surrounding bodywork and trim elements.
Spy photographers have captured test vehicles wrapped in complex camouflage patterns that obscure specific details, but the images reveal that updated lighting elements and revised bumper designs will debut when the refreshed model launches later this year. Front-end spy shots suggest a redesigned lower grille with increased height and a fresh profile, complemented by vertical air intakes positioned at the outer edges of the front bumper, directly forward of the wheel wells.
Rear-view images appear to showcase a completely new diffuser integrated into the back bumper, featuring pronounced corner lips designed to give this German-manufactured Spanish hatchback a more aggressive and lower stance.
The current Born already maintains a contemporary appearance and incorporates much of Cupra’s current design language seen across models like the Tavascan and Terramar, with the upcoming Raval subcompact EV set to follow suit. Additionally, Cupra enhanced the Born’s cabin in 2024 by incorporating VW’s larger 12.9-inch central display.
The ID.3 received the same screen upgrade in 2024, though only the Cupra variant offers an optional e-boost feature in certain markets, providing additional power compared to its VW counterpart. Spanish market entry-level models feature a single 201 hp motor, while UK variants begin with the 228 hp configuration, which serves as a bridge to the high-performance 322 hp VZ variant launched the previous year.
Major powertrain changes aren’t anticipated, though Cupra’s engineering team may extract additional range from the available 59, 77, and 79 kWh battery options. Currently, the longest-range variant is the VZ, capable of traveling 366 miles on a single charge.