Two electric vehicles, the VW ID3 GTX and the Cupra Born VZ, share nearly identical technical specifications. Both are built on the same platform, in the same factory, with the same electric motor. Yet, there's a £1690 difference in price. The main distinction seems to be brand recognition, leading one to question if that alone justifies the extra cost. While the GTX is technically sound, it shares drawbacks with its sibling car, such as underwhelming brakes. On the other hand, the Born offers superior interior design and comfort features.

Technical Parity Between Siblings

The VW ID3 GTX and Cupra Born VZ exhibit remarkable similarities in their technical aspects. Sharing the same platform, battery capacity, and powertrain, both vehicles deliver comparable performance metrics. Despite this parity, the GTX Performance variant distinguishes itself through subtle styling cues and specific interior elements like sports seats. However, these distinctions don't fully justify the significant price gap between the two models.

Delving deeper into the specifics, the GTX boasts a 322bhp engine with a net battery capacity of 79kWh, yielding an official range of 369 miles, though real-world conditions may reduce this figure. Inside, the vehicle features ergonomic sports seats and a dash cover unique to the GTX model. While the infotainment system has improved since launch, certain controls remain subpar. The rear-wheel drive setup enhances handling, providing a sharp turn-in despite the car's considerable weight. Nevertheless, the braking system lacks the necessary bite for confident cornering at higher speeds, which detracts from the overall driving experience.

Subjective Preferences in Design and Comfort

Beyond technical specifications, subjective factors play a crucial role in distinguishing the GTX from its Cupra counterpart. Interior design elements, such as color schemes and material choices, contribute significantly to the perceived quality and appeal of each vehicle. Additionally, comfort features like seating options and armrests enhance the driving experience, making these aspects critical considerations for potential buyers.

In terms of interior ambiance, the Born VZ stands out with its vibrant copper accents and innovative materials, contrasting sharply with the GTX's more subdued grey tones interspersed with occasional red highlights. The Born's Sabelt bucket seats offer superior support and comfort compared to the unbranded seats in the GTX. Furthermore, the inclusion of a proper central armrest and dedicated steering wheel button for drive mode selection adds convenience and functionality to the Born's offering. Externally, opinions may vary, but many find the Born's styling more appealing. These subtle yet significant differences make the Born a more enticing option for those seeking value for money, despite sharing nearly identical mechanical underpinnings with the GTX.