The CUPRA Born is one of the most exciting additions to the electric vehicle (EV) market in Australia. It’s a car that promises not only zero-emissions motoring but also the style and driving dynamics to thrill enthusiasts. After spending a week with this sporty EV, it’s clear that the Born delivers on its promises, making it a standout option for those considering a novated lease or exploring the benefits of the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for electric cars in 2025.
Exterior Styling: A Distinctive Presence
From the moment you see the CUPRA Born, it’s apparent that this is no ordinary hatchback. The design is dynamic and sharp, with bold lines and a sporty stance that immediately catches the eye. The Barcelona-based brand has successfully infused its racing heritage into the styling, creating a car that looks fast even when it’s standing still.
One clever touch is the integrated boot handle, which doubles as the CUPRA badge. This design choice not only maintains the car’s clean lines but also adds a layer of intrigue—a small but satisfying ‘CUPRA handshake’ every time you open the boot. While compact in overall size, the Born makes a strong impression, standing out in a market crowded with more generic EV designs.
Interior: European Elegance Meets Practicality
Stepping inside, the Born’s cabin is a masterclass in European design. The materials and finishes are luxurious, from the suede inlays on the seats and door trims to the bronze accents scattered throughout. The sports seats are not only stylish but also incredibly supportive, making long drives comfortable.
One particularly delightful feature is the massage and lumbar support for both the driver and passenger seats. This level of luxury is rare in a car of this size and price range. However, it’s worth noting that memory functions for the seats are absent, which would have been a welcome addition for households with multiple drivers.
The centre console is well thought out, offering ample storage space for items like sunglasses, tissues, and bottles. Despite its compact footprint, the Born feels spacious up front, although the rear seats are more suited to occasional passengers or small children. Teenagers or taller adults might find headroom and legroom restrictive.
Technology: Innovative but With Room for Improvement
The CUPRA Born is packed with tech, featuring a high-resolution instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen that dominates the dashboard. While the screen’s design integrates seamlessly into the cabin, the user interface can be a bit unintuitive at first. Most controls, including climate and volume adjustments, are cleverly embedded within the touchscreen, which may take some getting used to.
Apple CarPlay is supported but requires a wired connection, which feels outdated in a vehicle at this price point. Wireless CarPlay would have enhanced the convenience factor. Additionally, the system’s responsiveness occasionally lagged, particularly during initial connections.
The absence of adjustable regenerative braking is another notable drawback. Many EV drivers enjoy the option of one-pedal driving, and the inability to fine-tune the regen settings feels like a missed opportunity.
Driving Experience: A Hot Hatch at Heart
Behind the wheel, the Born truly shines. It’s a hot hatch through and through, with sharp steering and a firm suspension setup that prioritises handling without being overly harsh. Acceleration is brisk, courtesy of its electric powertrain, and the car feels planted and agile around corners.
The 77 kWh battery pack is a standout feature, delivering over 500 km of range on a single charge. This makes the Born a viable option for both city commutes and longer road trips. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are well-executed, offering a smooth and stress-free driving experience on highways.
However, the steering wheel itself received mixed feedback. While its sporty design aligns with the car’s overall aesthetic, it feels a bit hard to the touch, leading to some discomfort during extended drives. The placement of buttons on the steering wheel also requires some adjustment to avoid accidental inputs.
Noise insulation is another area where the Born could improve. While tyre and road noise are well-muted, wind noise becomes noticeable at freeway speeds, detracting slightly from the otherwise refined cabin environment.
Practicality: Compact Yet Capable
The CUPRA Born’s compact dimensions make it ideal for urban environments, where tight parking spaces and narrow streets are common. Despite its size, it offers a surprising amount of storage, from door bins and cup holders to a generous centre console. The boot is practical for everyday use, although larger families might find it limiting.
One drawback is the glovebox, which offers minimal storage—barely enough for the car’s manual. That said, the overall layout of the cabin maximises usability, ensuring that every inch of space is utilised efficiently.
The Novated Leasing Advantage
For Australians considering a novated lease, the CUPRA Born represents an outstanding option. The FBT exemption for electric cars makes novated leasing the most affordable way to own a new EV in 2025. By leveraging this exemption, employees can significantly reduce their taxable income while enjoying the benefits of a brand-new, zero-emissions vehicle.
The Born’s low running costs further enhance its appeal. With no fuel expenses and minimal maintenance requirements compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, it’s a cost-effective choice for both personal and business use. The generous range also means fewer charging stops, adding convenience to its list of perks.
Verdict: A Winning Combination
The CUPRA Born is not just another EV; it’s a statement. For those who value style, performance, and sustainability, it’s a compelling choice. While it’s not without its flaws—such as the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and adjustable regen braking—these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme.
Priced at around $67,000 (until January 2025 when prices were dropped below $50k driveaway), the Born isn’t cheap, but it offers a level of sophistication and driving pleasure that justifies the investment. For motoring enthusiasts ready to embrace the electric future, it’s a car that delivers on every promise. And when paired with the financial benefits of novated leasing and the FBT exemption, the CUPRA Born becomes an even more attractive proposition.
In summary, the CUPRA Born is a hot hatch for the electric age—a car that’s as exciting to drive as it is to own. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save on running costs, or simply enjoy a stylish and sporty ride, the Born ticks all the boxes.
