The CUPRA Formentor is the model that most clearly represents CUPRA’s blend of SUV practicality and performance-car attitude in Australia. The current MY26 range is unusually broad, spanning five variants and several different powertrain types. Buyers can choose the S mild hybrid, V turbo petrol AWD, VZe plug-in hybrid, VZx high-performance AWD and the limited VZ5 five-cylinder flagship. This variety means the Formentor can appeal to efficiency-focused commuters, buyers wanting everyday all-wheel-drive security, plug-in hybrid users and enthusiasts seeking serious performance from a compact SUV-shaped vehicle.

The Formentor S uses a 110 kW mild-hybrid drivetrain and front-wheel drive, with CUPRA quoting combined fuel consumption of 5.5 L/100km. The V moves to a 150 kW turbo petrol engine with all-wheel drive and a 0–100km/h time of 6.7 seconds. The VZe combines a petrol engine and electric motor for 200 kW and 400 Nm, with an electric-only range of up to 114 km and support for 11 kW AC and 50 kW DC charging. Above that, the VZx delivers 245 kW with AWD and a 4.8-second 0–100km/h time, while the VZ5 uses a distinctive 287 kW five-cylinder turbo engine and reaches 100km/h in a claimed 4.2 seconds.

For Australian buyers considering a plug-in hybrid, the VZe is particularly significant because its electric range is long enough to cover many daily commutes without using much petrol when charged regularly. At the same time, the petrol engine removes the range limitations associated with a pure EV on longer regional trips. The trade-off is reduced boot space compared with some petrol variants and the need for regular charging to achieve the best efficiency.

The Formentor’s interior combines a sporty driving position with a useful five-seat cabin. CUPRA Australia lists a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, integrated navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 10.25-inch digital cockpit. Standard parking technology includes Park Assist, a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors, which is especially useful given the Formentor’s more coupe-like rear styling.

Safety and convenience equipment are strong across the local range. Adaptive cruise control with Travel Assist, lane centring, Side Assist blind-spot monitoring, Exit Warning, Rear Crossing Traffic Alert and speed sign recognition are all part of the current Australian package. Up to 10 airbags are available depending on variant. Higher grades also add more sophisticated chassis technology and performance-focused hardware.

The Formentor is also visually more expressive than many mainstream small SUVs. CUPRA’s shark-nose front end, triangular daytime running lights, full-width rear lighting and copper detailing give it a distinctive identity. Australian buyers can also choose from several metallic and matte finishes, with selected matte paints reserved for higher variants such as the VZe, VZx and VZ5.

Overall, the CUPRA Formentor is best suited to buyers who want a compact SUV but do not want to give up style or driver involvement. The S and V are the most straightforward everyday choices, the VZe is the most efficient when regularly charged, and the VZx and VZ5 deliver genuine performance credentials. Its main compromises are a smaller boot in the plug-in hybrid, firmer suspension in the sportier grades and higher fuel consumption in the most powerful petrol variants. Buyers should compare the exact grade carefully, because drivetrain, traction, charging capability, wheel size and premium performance equipment vary substantially across the five-model range.