Our thoughts on the new addition:
Cupra may not be a brand that you have heard of yet, but we do think this is about to change. The latest addition to the Volkswagen Group of brands and developed from SEAT, it promises to keep the best parts of these models and take them in a more exciting direction.
At present it has a range of 3 cars; the Cupra Leon Hatchback, Cupra Leon Estate and the Cupra Ateca, which are all based on the same platform as the equivalent SEAT cars. However, the Formentor is the first brand-exclusive model. Our Sales Account Manager Beth has test driven most of the range for at least a week at a time, and takes a look at this exciting new addition to the range.
Different derivatives of the model
Classed as a midsized SUV coupé meant to rival the XC40 and Audi Q3 Sportback, the Cupra is a little longer than the SEAT Ateca or Volkswagen Tiguan, but the roof is slightly lower.
The Formentor range has a 1.5-litre, petrol and manual transmission offering and starts the range with 3 more petrol engines on offer as well as two plug-in hybrids. There are 5 levels of trim available, starting with the V1 and finishing with the VZ3.
The VZ models are the higher powered, performance models, whilst the V models have the more standard powered engines. The V1 is the entry model which certainly has a premium feel to it and is positively eye-catching. The 1.5-litre engine is familiar with the VW Group cars such as the Tiguan.
What is the interior like?
The V1 model comes with Cloth Interior as standard, with leather coming as a standard feature from the V2 model onwards. The car is very comfortable for longer journeys and adaptive cruise control is standard on all models, which makes longer journeys easier.
What’s the technology like?
The infotainment system has a large, 12-inch touchscreen which is very responsive and easy to use. All variants include Sat-Nav, wireless phone charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto phone mirroring.
What kind of space is available?
There is plenty of space for 5 adults to fit comfortably in the car, with plenty of headroom. The wide boot allows up to 450 litres of luggage, slightly less than what the BMW X2 offers. The exception is the e-Hybrid, which drops capacity down to 345 litres. But even that's roughly what you would have in the Volkswagen Golf, and there is space to fit five carry-on suitcases below the e-Hybrid's parcel shelf. With the rear seats folded down, I was able to fit two road bikes into the vehicle.
When is it available?
There is limited availability of Cupra V1 models arriving at the end of June, some of which we have already secured for our clients. The VZ model range is likely to be available towards the end of the August/September for orders placed in May.
Verdict
I have absolutely loved this car, it’s genuinely a really exciting entrant to the industry. The VZ2 and VZ3 models are exciting to drive, however the V1 model is perfect for day-to-day driving and one that I find practical, comfortable and reliable to use.
If you're interested in finding out more, please get in touch today at bethany@pikeandbambridge.co.uk.
