The Cupra Born Just Got Better… But Is It Worth €40k? | Irish Review (2026)

The Cupra Born has been on sale in Ireland since 2022, and now it has received a facelift. But with more EVs arriving on the market, including Cupra’s upcoming Raval, is the Born still worth considering? In this review, I take a look at the updated Cupra Born, including the subtle exterior changes, the much-improved interior, practicality, driving experience, real-world range and charging. The Born continues to be available with different battery options, from the 58kWh Urban with up to 483km of claimed range, through to the 79kWh Endurance with up to 626km. At the top of the range is the Born VZ, with 326hp and up to 629km of claimed range. The facelift itself is relatively subtle, with updated lighting, new alloy wheels and a few details designed to bring the Born more in line with newer Cupra models like the Tavascan. Inside, there are bigger changes, including a new full-size digital driver's display, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heated steering wheel and thankfully proper physical buttons replacing some of the old haptic controls. There's also plenty of room in the back thanks to the dedicated EV platform, three Isofix points and a 385-litre boot. On the road, this 79kWh Born produces 231hp and 350Nm, sends its power to the rear wheels and can do 0–100km/h in around 7 seconds. With its lowered suspension, sharper steering and Cupra drive modes, it's designed to be the sportier choice but does it manage to balance that with everyday comfort? I'll also look at real-world efficiency and range, regenerative braking and the different battery technologies used in the Born. Charging is up to 11kW on AC, while DC charging goes up to 105kW for the 58kWh version and 185kW for the 79kWh version. The facelift also brings Vehicle-to-Load, with Vehicle-to-Home available on the 79kWh model. So, is the facelifted Cupra Born worth the money in Ireland? Watch the full review to find out. #CupraBorn #Cupra #ElectricCars #EV #EVReview #CarReview