Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid 2024 in testing: “Updates in the right places”

In 2020, the Formentor was Cupra's first standalone model. Four years later, the first facelift has become highly justified due to its enormous importance to the brand. Not least because visually the Formentor is finally standing on its wheels. The brand's new design up front, including triangular daytime running lights, gives the crossover a much more dynamic look and the last of the seat metaphors are gone.

Formentor improves charging performance

With the exception of the brand logo, which is now backlit, the changes to the exterior design remain manageable. As a non-Cupra fan, you also have to look twice inside to see the changes. The gear knob on the center console has been revised, the central display, now increased in size to 12.9 inches, dominates the instrument panel, and finally the climate and volume controls are illuminated. Overall, everything feels a bit more valuable, and the software didn't cause any problems during testing. In terms of driving, the Formentor unsurprisingly shows no weakness. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and the 116 hp electric motor work harmoniously together via a 6-speed DSG transmission. Only during operation does the combustion engine sound a little strained acoustically, but the performance is convincing. In electric mode, the final punch is missing, but thanks to the larger 19.7 kWh battery, a range of up to 100 kilometers is now possible. There are bonus points for charging power, with the Formentor now managing 50 kW (AC) or 11 kW (DC) – previously only 3.7 kW was possible.

On test: Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid

A five-door, five-seat crossover. Plug-in hybrid drive: 1.5-litre petrol engine 130 kW/177 hp, electric motor 85 kW/116 hp, system output 200 kW/272 hp, 6-speed DSG, front-wheel drive; Battery 19.7 kWh (net), Curb weight 1654 kg, Trunk 345-1415 litres, WLTP consumption 1.5 l/100 km, 32 g CO2/km, in test: 4.2 litres. Charging power: 50 kW (AC) or 11 kW (DC).

Prices: From 45,900 euros, test car 57,095.26 euros.

What to like about the Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid: Updates in the right places.

What's not to like about the Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid: Driving is a bit tiring in E mode.

What surprises are in the Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid: Interior design is now easier.

The Cupra Formentor VZ e-Hybrid is ideal for: Sporty hybrid drivers.