THERE is no doubt that all-electric cars have improved greatly over the past few years but it will take time to convince the majority to switch power.

Cars like the Cupra Born with its good looks, performance and decent range will certainly help persuade some to make the leap.

The Born is the Spanish marque's first all-electric effort and the hatchback is good to drive and is crammed with hi-tech features.

I sampled the car in top-spec V3 trim with the lowest of the three power units available but the 58kWh battery pack and 204PS electric motor still offered lots of punch.

Acceleration was brisk and smooth and the car felt well planted due to the underfloor placing of the heavy battery pack.

The sprint to 62mph took just 7.3 seconds and although the top speed is only 99mph that will be more than enough for most drivers.

The Born was happy in town on twisting country roads and cruising at motorway speeds and the suspension provided good ride comfort even over rough surfaces.

A gear selector on the steering-wheel column stalk enables you to flip from drive to B mode which makes the most of energy regeneration when you lift off the accelerator.

A large central touchscreen lets you select individual modes and the manufacturers claim a range of up to 264 miles on a single charge.

A rapid 120kW charger will power the battery pack up to 80 per cent in just 35 minutes if you can find one while a regular house charger will take just over six hours to go from zero to full capacity.

The Born is certainly a good looking car. It sits higher than a normal hatchback and has sporting lines with sleek headlights, an integrated rear spoiler and slimline tail lights running across the width of the car.

It also has a contrasting black roof , copper-framed intakes at the front and a large diffuser at the rear as well as great-looking alloys.

Inside the cabin is spacious, clutter free and well built. There are many sporting touches and the seats are very comfortable.

There is a well-placed cockpit display as well as a head-up display so you can always see the information you need.

A 12in infotainment touchscreen allows you to control most of the car's functions and set-ups and also offers intelligent sat nav, while Cupra Connect provides many other services.

As you would expect the Cupra Born features all the latest safety and driver aids and it is also practical with a large 385-litre boot.

At £38,390 the V3 is not exactly cheap but it is a looker that provides premium quality and a fine driving experience.