The Skoda Octavia vRS is practical, smart, sporty and extremely versatile. You could argue that the Golf GTI does much of the same... But John Marcar thinks that the cheaper Skoda might actually be the one to pick!

CUPRA's Born came along five years ago as the marque's first-ever EV. Now, for 2026, it's had a facelift, and in the most sporty 'VZ' trim, it's better-looking than ever. John Marcar flew to Madrid to experience the updated model in the city centre and the surrounding country roads.

John Marcar has spent a week with CUPRA's sleek, stylish take on the Golf GTI Clubsport and is in awe of its abilities... but there's a potentially major issue that can't be ignored.