2025 Cupra Formentor packs angry looks, drift mode

Cupra has given its best-selling car in Australia, the Formentor SUV, an overhaul.

With a new shark nose and lighting details on the outside, a new infotainment system, and a new plug-in hybrid powertrain option, it’s been revealed alongside the updated Leon hatchback and wagon.

Cupra has previously said it’ll be here early in 2025. We’ll update this story with firmer details about timing when they’re available.

Although the new look is attention grabbing, it’s not the biggest news here.

Cupra has given the powertrains an overhaul for 2025. In Europe, the entry-level model features a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a six-speed manual with 110kW of power.

Three variants will be offered with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine, making 150kW of power with all-wheel drive at the entry level, 195kW with front-drive in the mid-range model, and 245kW with all-wheel drive in the top model.

That range-topping engine is also on offer with a version of the Torque Splitter rear differential offered in the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi RS3.

That opens the door for features such as Drift Mode, which sends all the engine’s torque to the outside rear wheel to allow this all-wheel drive SUV to rip donuts to your heart’s content.

It’ll also be available with a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine, a 2.0-litre diesel, and two plug-in hybrid models. Both pair a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and a 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery pack, good for more than 100km of range in electric mode.

The entry model makes 150kW of power, and the more expensive model pumps out 200kW. DC charging up to 50kW is on offer, while 11kW AC is also available.

In Australia, the Formentor is currently available with a choice of petrol engines making 140kW (V), 180kW (VZ), and 228kW (VZx), along with a plug-in hybrid VZe.

Behind the wheel, the Formentor has been treated to a new 12.9-inch infotainment system with backlit touch sliders.

It’s running new software in line with its Volkswagen Group counterparts, designed to make it easier to access key functions on the run.

There’s an optional 12-speaker Sennheiser sound system as well.

MORE: Everything Cupra Formentor