A HIGH performance version of the Cupra Born EV is being launched with the arrival of the Born VZ.

VZ is an acronym for the Spanish word veloz - which translated into English means fast - and the Born VZ develops 321bhp.

It gives the Spanish hatch performance figures of 0 to 62mph acceleration of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 120mph - up from the 99mph of the regular Born and a second quicker under acceleration.

Chassis changes include a new DCC Sport suspension, changes to the steering and improved brake pedal feel while at the rear the Born VZ new dampers and springs as well as updated anti-roll bars.

The car has a range of up to 335 miles and the battery pack has been improved to offer 79kWh with a fast charge time of around 30 minutes to 80 per cent capacity.

Inside, the CUPRA Born VZ has bucket seats similar to those in the Cupra Formentor VZ5 and the Leon VZ Cup, with a lower seating position while paddle shifters are fitted on the steering wheel allowing for three levels of regeneration.

There's also a new and larger floating 12.9-inch infotainment system which mixes touchscreen inputs with a new retro illuminated touch bar to adjust interior climate and volume.

The interior is illuminated with Smart Light technology as standard with horizontal full-LEDs which wrap around the width of the dashboard to enhance specific features, giving warnings and indications.

The Born VZ will be launched in the third quarter of 2024 and pricing and UK specification will be confirmed in the summer.