Cupra is at it again, reminding us why its versions of big-name Volkswagens are almost always superior to the real thing. This time, the Spanish brand has teased an updated Born, its sportier take on the VW ID.3, and we’ll get to see the full makeover on March 5.

The biggest change is visual, and it seems like it’ll be hard to miss. The updated Born adopts Cupra’s latest design DNA, complete with triangular Matrix LED headlights and a matching triangular lighting graphic at the rear. There’s also an illuminated rear badge because lit logos are the car design world’s new LED light bar.

Related: VW Found A Way To Slip A Chinese Cupra EV Past EU Tariffs

We’ve spied disguised prototypes of the facelift Born testing a couple of times, and those images suggest redesigned bumpers and a taller lower grille augmented by vertical outer vents that make the EV look tougher and wider.

Tech Upgrade

The Born’s cabin already makes the ID.3s look cheap and dull (though VW did improve the materials a couple of years ago), and Cupra says we should expect even better quality and more technology in the refreshed car. But it’s not like the brand has a ton to do in this area, having already upgraded the Born to VW’s much-improved 12.9-inch touchscreen in 2024.

Few Below-Surface Changes

Under the skin, things are more mysterious, and we’re guessing that’s because it’s all carried across from the current hatch. Cupra hasn’t confirmed any technical changes, and the current Born is already competitive for electric range and performance in its class. So this update could be more about feel and flair than extra kilowatts. Still, a little surprise boost wouldn’t hurt.

As of today, Cupra skips the low-tune motor options offered in entry-level VW ID.3s and jumps straight to a 228 hp (231 PS / 170 kW) single-motor setup with a choice of 59 or 79 kWh batteries, giving up to 354 miles (570 km ) between fills. Hot hatch fans can upgrade to Cupra’s version of the ID.3 GTX, the Born VZ, which comes with a 322 hp (326 PS / 240 kW) motor, again driving the rear wheels only.

The Volkswagen Group has been doing some careful footwork lately, trying to stay ahead as Europe tightens the rules on electric cars coming in from China. Cupra boss Wayne Griffiths warned just over a year ago that the brand could be “wiped out” by new European Union tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China.

But now, the VW Group might get a special lane through Europe’s new tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, and that possibility isn’t going unnoticed in Beijing.

More: Ford May Fill Its Factory With Chinese EVs So They Can Dodge Tariffs

Here’s the deal in simple terms. The EU slapped tariffs on electric cars made in China, arguing they benefit from heavy state support. But there is a loophole. Instead of paying those extra duties, a carmaker can agree to sell a model at a minimum price.

Volkswagen looks set to use that option for the Cupra Tavascan, which is built in China, Germany’s Handelsblatt reports. If Brussels signs off, VW can ship it into Europe without being stung by punitive 20.7 percent tariffs, as long as it sticks to the agreed pricing rules. Officially, this is all perfectly above board and part of existing procedures.

Not A U-Turn

The European Commission’s diplomats in Beijing say these kinds of allowances do not constitute a U-turn on its Chinese vehicle policy, a complaint leveled by some critics. Beijing, meanwhile, is being outwardly positive about the rumored EU concessions.

But behind closed doors, the Chinese worry that Volkswagen might be getting friendlier treatment than other manufacturers because it’s a European brand. China had pushed for an industry-wide solution, but now seems to be accepting smaller, case-by-case deals, realizing that letting individual brands cut their own deals may be better than endless stalemate.

Long Process

Each application for a minimum pricing deal can take well over a year and must be reportedly handled on a car-by-car basis, the report says. Industry watchers doubt every Chinese brand will rush in, especially those already making healthy margins even with tariffs in place, but VW evidently believes it’s worth the admin in the Tavascan’s case.

The Tavascan is Cupra’s sportier take on the VW ID.5, a 182.8-inch (4,644 mm) electric crossover built around the MEB platform and offering a mix of single and dual-motor powertrains with up to 353 miles (568 km) of electric range.

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