The Cupra Born, Volkswagen Group’s first all-electric hatchback in Australia, has quietly exited from local showrooms. Confirmed by Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA), the Born electric hatchback is no longer available here as the existing stock has run dry. However, this may not the end of the line for the Cupra Born in Australia— there’s hope for a return, possibly in a higher-performance VZ variant.
Why has the Cupra Born disappeared?
The Cupra Born was launched in Australia in late 2022, as a sporty, rear-wheel-drive EV with a 77 kWh battery and 170 kW motor. However, with no new shipments arriving, the model has been removed from Cupra’s Australian website.
Earlier this year, Cupra announced a delay in the Born VZ hot hatch—originally scheduled for May 2025, it is now expected to arrive in December 2025.
“Planning for the next evolution of the Born – including the performance VZ – continues,” said VGA in a statement, hinting at a potential comeback.
What could the Cupra Born VZ offer?
If it follows the European model, the Born VZ could pack:
- 240kW/545Nm motor (a significant upgrade over the standard 170kW)
- Sharper handling & sportier tuning
- Aggressive styling tweaks
For now, the Cupra Tavascan SUV remains the brand’s sole electric vehicle (EV) offering in Australia.
Cupra Born market performance in Australia
Since its launch, 1,654 Borns have been sold, peaking in 2023 with 887 deliveries. This year, 301 units were sold by May—making it Cupra’s second-best seller behind the Formentor crossover (686).
How did it compare to other EVs?
While the Born couldn’t match the dominance of Tesla’s EV lineup or compete with the more affordable rivals from China, but it held its own in the electric hatch segment:
- MG 4 (2,017)
- BYD Dolphin (776)
- Cupra Born (301)
- GWM Ora (271)
- Renault Megane E-Tech (138)
- Nissan Leaf (62)
The premium price tag
Originally priced at $59,990 before on-road costs, the Cupra Born has recently seen a sharp discount to $47,090 drive-away, suggesting a clearance sale ahead of its exit. In comparison, the MG4 XPOWER electric hatchback with a whopping 320kW of performance carries a price tag of $55,990 (before on-road costs).
What’s next for Cupra in Australia?
With the Cupra Born on pause, all eyes are on the Cupra Tavascan SUV and the potential return of the Born VZ later this year. If Cupra can bring a hotter, more competitive version, it could reignite interest in the brand’s EV lineup. Other models in the lineup currently on offer are the Formentor, Leon, and Ateca with a mix of petrol and hybrid powertrains. The confirmed new model from the VW Group brand in Australia is the Cupra Terramar SUV with plug-in hybrid tech.
Final thoughts
The Cupra Born’s departure is disappointing for EV enthusiasts, but its potential return, especially in higher-performance form, could make the wait worthwhile. Would you consider a Cupra Born VZ if it were to arrive in Australia? Let us know in the comments!
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