Cupra Formentor gets an update and a Drift Mode

Cupra has given its Formentor a mid-cycle refresh with the usual sprucing of the styling, additional standard equipment and some drivetrain improvements. Of particular note is a new sports diff for the go-fast VZ versions, but we’ll get to that.

Exterior Design

The new Formentor introduces a shark-nose front end, triangular matrix LED headlights and a bigger lower grille. The Cupra logo is directly integrated onto the bonnet. Cupra says ‘the front-end design adds the strength of expression and a sense of width while thin air-intake slots below the shark nose add technicality and sophistication’.

Along with new wheel designs, two side blisters ‘add a feeling of movement, and the deeply shaped sections of the body add to the sensual sculpture of the new Formentor’. At the rear, coast-to-coast taillights integrate the illuminated logo at the centre.

Interior Design

The steering wheel now gets satellite buttons to ‘maximise control and ease of use’, while the dashboard surfaces get new 3D parametric patterns. 

The centre console is fresh, made of improved materials. There are a greater range of seat options, and some are trimmed in more sustainable materials. 

A CUPBucket seat will be available for the VZ, offering a lower seating position. 

There’s a new HMI in the digital cockpit and a larger 12.9-inch screen for the improved infotainment system. This is said to have an easy-to-use user interface, a retro-illuminated slider and an improved App Bar, widgets, and Clima Bar. Climate control is now integrated into the main unit’s screen, apparently ‘making all vehicle functions and assistants accessible with just a single click, joining the digital and physical interactions’.

Powertrain improvements 

The entry point is the new 1.5 litre TSI petrol mild hybrid unit which delivers 110kW. The 2.0 litre TSI petrol makes 150kW, is linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and gains all-wheel drive. The VZ now comes in two guises with a 195kW front-driver and a 245kW AWD model, both using the dual-clutch auto. 

The AWD model gets a unique Cupra mode for race track driving and a torque splitter rear diff. The system is electro-hydraulically controlled with two independent clutches which allows for independent torque control on each rear wheel. It also comes with a Drift mode. 

Plug-in hybrid improved too

The eHybrid 150kW powertrain uses the new 1.5 TSI engine, an electric motor, and a larger battery pack that now offers 19.7kWh (net). Cupra states EV range of up to 100km. The battery can now be fast charged at up to 50kW (DC charge) while on the road, or at home using a 11kW Wallbox (previously 3.6kW). The VZ e-HYBRID offers a higher 200kW output.