You’d have to think the design folks responsible for the Cupra Formentor’s 2024 facelift may have drawn inspiration from a recent trip to Turkey.
With its striking razor-edges, sculpted flanks, and pert rump it was perhaps inevitable that any attempt to mess with such an idiosyncratic design always had the potential to come across somewhat heavy-handed. Even so, some subtle fillers or a spot of liposuction would have been preferable to the fully Botoxed trout-pout front end that the Formentor’s designers settled on. At least the rear end looks more in keeping with the rest of the metalwork thanks to a full-width LED light bar featuring an illuminated Cupra logo and a resculpted bumper incorporating a slightly more discernible diffuser.
Interior
Inside, the Formentor’s excellent driving position remains relatively unchanged, with the addition of some refreshed material finishes, its attractive dash layout, replete with familiar copper accents and reassuringly positive feeling switchgear retains its higher-than-its-price-point look and feel. It now features a larger 12.9in central touchscreen, running the latest software, which is claimed to make things faster and easier to use. Cupra has also listened to criticisms of the universally slated climate controls and although touch-sensitive sliders are still the primary point to adjust the cabin temperature they are now illuminated, so there should be no more issues when driving at night. Whether this latest interface will be more reliable than previous VW Group infotainment systems remains to be seen.
The digital driver’s display has also been revamped with a fresh array of funky-looking graphics, while a 15-watt wireless charging pad with a cooling function will be a welcome solution to anyone who has fried their phone on one of the older-style hot-plate charging mats. Further back, the Formentor provides the same kind of space as a family hatchback, although it does seem a bit less accommodating thanks to the small rear screen and windows and that rising waistline. On higher-spec models, things are even more claustrophobic due to the heavily stylised front seatbacks, which compel passengers to crane their necks inboard to gain a view of the road ahead.
The boot is also similarly hatch sized, with the front-wheel-drive models providing 450 litres, you should be able to fit in a baby buggy or a set of golf clubs without too much drama. Bear in mind though, if you go for one of the four-wheel-drive versions space is reduced to 420 litres and things get even tighter with the e-Hybrid versions, which store their larger batteries under the boot floor, and consequently make do with just 345 litres.
Drive and performance
As well as the new looks a refreshed powertrain line-up has been introduced, with power outputs ranging from 150 to 333hp. The entry point is a 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the same engine is available with a seven-speed DSG auto and a 48-volt mild-hybrid boost to provide mild electric assistance and enhanced efficiency. Previous experience with these powertrains has shown them to be smooth and sufficiently strong performers, with more than enough power for most everyday needs. Then there are two 1.5-litre plug-in hybrids, producing 204 or 272hp. Each comes with a 19.7kWh battery, offering a pure-electric range of up to 72 miles but despite such a healthy power output, the performance feel of these cars seems relatively modest. However, with an almost full charge from the outset and given a spirited drive, we still managed to return an impressive outcome of just over 70mpg.
With a maximum charging speed of 11kW when hooked up to a home wall box, or up to 50kW DC from a rapid charger, the days of snail-pace charging for plug-ins seem well and truly over. For those in even more of a rush, there are all-singing 265 and 333hp 2.0TSI versions. Allied with super-accurate steering and taut body control these versions ramp-up the giggle factor significantly, providing scenery-blurring straight-line performance and supercar-chasing, rib cage-crushing cornering forces. You pay your money etc.
Positive: Excellent blend of comfort and control, smooth and potent powertrains,
classy interior.
Negative: Dark rear accommodation, smallish boot
Standard equipment: 18in alloys, keyless entry and start-up, 12.9in infotainment screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, front and rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging pad, faux leather seats, electric tailgate.
| Model | Cupra Formentor 1.5 272 PHEV VZ1 |
| P11D | £44,845 |
| Residual value | tbc |
| Depreciation | tbc |
| Fuel | tbc |
| Service, maintenance and repair | tbc |
| Cost per mile | tbc |
| Fuel consumption | tbc |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 10g/km (5%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £37/£75 |
| Luggage capacity | 420 litres |
| Engine size/power | 1,497cc/272hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
