CUPRA
Cupra Formentor returns Ferrari Testarossa power
Following the recent update of the Spanish sports brand's popular compact SUV, a new edition has just been announced, limited to 4,000 units worldwide (and, for the first time, also available in right-hand drive), of its flagship version: the Cupra Formentor VZ5. With production scheduled to begin (in Barcelona, where it was also developed) in the first quarter of 2026, it combines high performance, cutting-edge technology, and an enhanced look, in keeping with its vocation.
The core element of the most feisty Formentor remains the 2.5 TSI turbocharged in-line five-cylinder engine, with its very characteristic and stimulating sound, and capable of delivering 390 hp (287 kW) of power and a maximum torque of 480 Nm. Tuned to provide an even more exciting driving experience, it is coupled with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch manual transmission, which transmits power to the wheels via an all-wheel drive system, featuring torque split technology, including lateral torque control, for precise power distribution to all wheels and greater stability in corners.
First quarter of 2026. That's the date Cupra marked on its calendar to put the Formentor VZ5 back on the road, a model that, with its launch in 2021, marked a turning point in the Cupra catalog. This first edition was a real coup, demonstrating that a compact SUV can have a different character when paired with a five-cylinder engine.
It's paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox and, to maintain effective grip, features all-wheel drive and a torque splitter system that precisely distributes torque between the four driven wheels.
Externally, the front end features a more angular bumper and a lower splitter embossed with the VZ5 logo, while the wheel arches lend a more robust appearance, and the rear diffuser features four diagonal exhaust outlets finished in the exclusive Cupra Copper color. The 20-inch wheels, also in copper and featuring the VZ5's specific design, further reinforce this Formentor's undeniably provocative character. The color scheme is limited to five shades: Dark Void, Magnetic Tech Matte, Century Bronze Matte, Enceladus Gray Matte, and Midnight Black.
Inside, the CUPBucket seats, new ambient lighting, and metallic accents with the Cupra logo cement a sporty ambiance. All in an environment that, according to the Spanish brand, extols sophistication, sportiness, and digitalization.
At Cupra, it seems they don't view this return as a simple nostalgia exercise. Sven Schuwirth, Executive Vice President of Commercial Vehicles at CUPRA, sums it up by stating that "the Cupra Formentor VZ5 is a bold statement that reinforces our commitment to performance and emotion. With its iconic five-cylinder engine, this model embodies the essence of CUPRA: it's bold, unconventional, and driven by passion." The main "functional" novelty is that, for the first time, it can be configured in right-hand drive, opening the door to markets like the UK, which until now had been excluded from this version.
Visually, and on the exterior, the new features include the distinctive front bumper, the front splitter with engraved VZ5 logo, wider wheel arches, and new rear bumpers and diffuser – not forgetting the diagonal copper exhaust tips. Also exclusive are the 20-inch copper-toned wheels, with their characteristic VZ5 design; the Cupra lettering in dark bronze; and a color palette, metallic or matte, that includes Midnight Black, Dark Void, Matte Magnetic Tech Grey, Matte Century Bronze, and Matte Enceladus Grey.
The revamped model was designed and developed in Barcelona, and production will begin in Martorell next year. Not in the near future, as Cupra has already announced that it will be limited to just 4,000 units.
Autonews
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