Long-term report: This car outsold Kia’s EV6 and Ford’s Mustang Mach-E

The Cupra Born was the 11th most popular battery electric vehicle (BEV) among private buyers in 2022, just ahead of the Kia EV6.

Although Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 EVs dominate the segment, taking a 15% share between them, the Born was among a broad mix of cars all accounting for between 2% and 4% share of private demand.

These included its near-identical twin, the Volkswagen ID3, and one of the cheapest EVs available in 2022, the MG ZS.

Cupra’s UK registrations almost doubled during 2022, to 14,383 from 7,584 in 2021.

Despite the brand being a still young offshoot of older sister brand Seat, Cupra achieved two new car sales for every three of Seat’s. The majority of its sales – 8,447 units – were the Formentor crossover (pictured right), available in PHEV and petrol derivatives.

However, the fully electric Born was Cupra’s second most popular car, notching up 4,643 sales.

To give that some context, the Born outsold Ford’s Mustang Mach-E (4,502 units) and almost overtook a British icon, the Range Rover (4,780 units).

All are great cars in their own ways. Yet now that my time in the Cupra Born is nearing an end I must admit a strong affection for this easy-to-live-with electro-mobile.

It’s very engaging to drive. I understand why buyers have taken the plunge.

I’ve struggled to find any real negatives, even if the winter weather means its range is nearer 200 miles than the claimed 260.

Given my lifestyle, I could live with that.

Pros: Cupra Born is easy to live with and good to drive

Cons: The white paintwork doesn't stand out, I'd prefer Lava Blue or Quasar Grey.

Start mileage: 712

Current mileage: 7,460