Cupra’s five-cylinder Formentor confirmed for UK launch

A high-performance version of Cupra’s Formentor crossover will be heading to the UK, having previously been slated for left-hand-drive-only production.

Dubbed the Formentor VZ5, the high-performance vehicle stands as an outlier in the hot hatch segment thanks to its 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that delivers 385bhp and 480Nm of torque through the car’s all-wheel-drive system. The VZ5 also includes ‘integrated torque splitter technology’ which allows it to shuffle power across the car’s wheels to help improve handling.

On the outside, the VZ5 is easy to differentiate from the rest of the Formentor range thanks to its front splitter, which has been engraved with the car’s badging, as well as wider wheel arches and a redesigned bumper and diffuser. The exhausts get diagonal exits with copper-coloured elements, too.

All cars get model-specific 20-inch alloy wheels with copper elements, as well as dark chrome Cupra lettering. Five exterior colours are available to choose from, too, with highlights including Magnetic Tech Matt and Century Bronze Matte.

Sven Schuwirth, executive vice-president for sales, marketing & aftersales at Cupra, said: “The return of the Cupra Formentor VZ5 is a bold statement of our commitment to performance and emotion. With its iconic five-cylinder engine, this model embodies the essence of CUPRA — daring, unconventional, and driven by passion.

“For the first time, the Cupra Formentor VZ5 will be available in both left- and right-hand drive, opening the door to car enthusiasts in markets such as the UK.”

In total, just 4,000 examples will be produced worldwide.

Inside, the VZ5 features ‘CupBucket seats’ which are designed to hold occupants in place during high-speed driving.

Cupra hasn’t yet stated a price for the VZ5, but has said that it will enter production in the first quarter of 2026.