Cupra plots more powerful and 4WD versions of Born

Volkswagen's new ID X concept hints at potential for Born to spawn a hot 4WD range-topper

Cupra is planning to expand the Born line-up with more powerful, top-end variants, and could even usher in a four-wheel-drive option. 

Speaking at the official reveal of Cupra's debut EV in production form, R&D boss Werner Tietz said "We are interested in that, but it's not something that's currently visible because we don't have the high demand for that. It's a lot of investment to do that full application for the car.

"But for sure, this kind of version drives nicely and maybe it's something for the future. Over the lifespan of the car, you can expect we will think about different drivetrains and power levels. Higher-powered versions can be expected someday." 

His comments followed the recent surprise unveiling of Volkswagen's ID X concept - based on the Born's closely related ID 3 sibling.

The visibly sportier ID X is particularly notable for its four-wheel drive powertrain, something that had been earlier reported was not possible to accomodate in the shorter version of the MEB architecture, prompting suggestions future variants of the ID 3 and Born could adopt a similar set-up.

The ID X is also the most powerful vehicle yet based on the MEB architecture, packing 329bhp from its twin-motor set-up for a 0-62mph time of 5.3secs. It also weighs 200kg less than the standard ID 3 and introduces a dedicated Drift mode, as used by the Golf R. 

VW CEO Ralf Brandstätter stressed that the concept was not destined for production, but such a formula would fit well with Cupra's brand positioning as the sportier arm of the VW Group, and the ID X concept shows that similar upgrades would not result in a significant compromise in terms of space and usability. 

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