Looking for something different in the crowded SUV market? The Cupra Formentor brings Spanish flair to Australian driveways with a unique blend of practicality and performance that’s turning heads across the country.
This isn’t just another crossover trying to be everything to everyone. The Formentor represents Cupra’s first standalone model since becoming an independent brand in 2018, moving beyond its roots as SEAT’s performance division. What you get is a vehicle that refuses to compromise between family practicality and driving excitement.
What Makes the Formentor Different
Design That Speaks Volumes
The Formentor’s aggressive stance immediately sets it apart from the sea of generic SUVs. Those sharp, angular lines aren’t just for show – they hint at the performance DNA underneath. The updated 2025 model brings a ‘shark-nose’ front end with less grille and even more sharp edges, plus new triangular matrix LEDs that give it a distinctive nighttime presence.
Inside, you’ll find copper stitching and angular air vents that reinforce the sporty theme without feeling over-the-top. The cabin strikes a nice balance between premium materials and purposeful design, though some reviewers note it doesn’t quite match German luxury standards at this price point.
Performance That Delivers
The Formentor lineup caters to different driving appetites. The base V model offers a solid 140kW from its 2.0-litre turbo engine, while the range-topping VZx cranks out 228kW/400Nm with a 0-100km/h time of just 4.9 seconds. That’s genuinely quick for a family SUV.
What’s particularly impressive is how the Formentor maintains its composure during spirited driving. The seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox delivers rapid shifts and even permits early downshifts with automatic throttle blips, making it feel more like a hot hatch on stilts than a traditional SUV.
Hybrid Technology Done Right
The VZe plug-in hybrid variant deserves special mention. With more than 100km of EV driving range, it addresses one of the main concerns about PHEVs – actually having enough electric range for meaningful daily driving. This makes it perfect for urban commutes while retaining long-distance capability for weekend adventures.
The hybrid system combines efficiency with performance, delivering 180kW of combined system power. For many Australian families, this could be the sweet spot between going fully electric and sticking with traditional petrol power.
Living With the Formentor Daily
Space and Practicality
Don’t let the sporty looks fool you – this SUV is genuinely practical. Rear seat space is surprisingly good, with enough headroom for tall passengers. The boot offers 420L in petrol models, though the hybrid VZe sacrifices some space at 345L to accommodate the battery pack.
Technology That Works
The current model’s 12-inch touchscreen can be a bit fiddly, but the upcoming 2025 update brings massive improvements to the infotainment system with a larger 12.9-inch unit and dedicated climate controls. The digital cockpit features unique graphics that match Cupra’s sporty character.
Wireless smartphone mirroring works reliably, though the wireless charging pad can be finicky with larger phones or thick cases.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Credentials
The Formentor holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2021, with impressive scores across all categories. Standard safety tech includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a comprehensive airbag system.
Ownership Experience
Cupra backs the Formentor with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, which provides excellent peace of mind. Service intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km, and the brand offers attractive service packages that include pickup and delivery within 10km of service centres.
Formentor Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.5L mild-hybrid (110kW), 2.0L turbo (140kW), 2.0L turbo (228kW), 1.4L PHEV (180kW combined) |
| Transmission | 6-speed DSG (PHEV), 7-speed DSG (petrol models) |
| 0-100km/h | 7.0 seconds (V, VZe), 4.9 seconds (VZx) |
| Fuel Economy | 7.0L/100km (V), 7.7L/100km (VZx), 1.9L/100km (VZe) |
| Boot Capacity | 420L (petrol), 345L (PHEV) |
| Towing Capacity | 1,800kg |
| Warranty | 5 years/unlimited kilometres |
| Safety Rating | 5-star ANCAP (2021) |
Should You Wait for the 2025 Update?
The refreshed Formentor arrives in early 2025 with styling tweaks, improved technology, and new engine options. However, current drive-away deals make the 2024 model particularly attractive, especially with the VZx available for $61,990 drive-away on MY24 models through June 2025.
If you need a vehicle now and can live with the current infotainment system, the existing Formentor offers excellent value. The fundamental driving experience and build quality remain the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cupra Formentor reliable?
Yes, it’s built on proven Volkswagen Group platforms with established engines and transmissions, backed by a comprehensive 5-year warranty.
How does the PHEV version work in real-world driving?
The VZe offers around 100km of real-world electric range, perfect for daily commuting, with seamless switching to hybrid mode for longer trips.
Is it worth choosing over a Volkswagen Tiguan R?
At current pricing, the Formentor VZx offers similar performance for significantly less money, though some may prefer VW’s more conservative styling and interior.
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Review: Is This Budget SUV Worth the Hype?
