The fastest versions of the Cupra Formentor have always been the most enjoyable and engaging models in the Spanish high-performance and electric brand's lineup — the 330hp 4WD VZ model especially — so imagine how happy we are with the news that one of the best modern high-performance engines is going to slot in under the Formentor's bonnet in the new VZ5 model.
Which engine are we talking about here?
If you're a VW engine code nerd, you'll know this engine as the DAZA engine, and it's the 2.5-litre inline-five cylinder engine that will be familiar from models such as the Audi RS 3 and RS Q3. The Formentor is the first model outside of the Audi empire to get to use this mighty turbo five in recent years, although apparently it will also be slotted into the VW Golf R for a final petrol-only R special model in 2027.
Hang on, wasn't this engine fitted to the Formentor before?
You're spot on — there has previously been a Formentor VZ5, but not for us. The previous use of this range-topping five-cylinder engine was only for left-hand drive markets, but now the VZ5 is coming with correct-hand-drive for the first time.
How much power does it have?
While the Audi RS 3 with the same engine develops a robust 400hp, the Cupra Formentor VZ5 will have 'just' the 390hp, and its 480Nm torque peak is also 20Nm behind the Audi. Clearly, hierarchies still exist within the VW Group where this kind of thing is concerned.
OK, but how fast will it be?
We don't know, as Cupra hasn't released official performance figures yet, but we have little doubt it will be blisteringly fast. After all, the RS3 with the same engine and four-wheel drive setup can crack 3.8 seconds to 100km/h. We reckon the Cupra will do the same sprint in around 4.2 seconds — more than fast enough for anyone, really. However, speed isn't really the point here — sound is. The DAZA engine has an addictive five-cylinder throbbing warbling noise that will give the hot Formentor much more character than the slightly too quiet EA888 2.0-litre turbo engine.
Does this Formentor look much different?
No, you'll have to be a bit of a car bore (and welcome to the club…) if you're going to spot a VZ5 on the road. There are unique-to-the-model 20-inch alloys finished in a mixture of black and copper, and there are copper-coloured brake calipers and copper-finished triangular-shaped exhaust tips too. The wheelarches are a little more flared out (quite subtly so), and there's dark-chrome badging. Actually, the biggest visual giveaway on the outside is the new front splitter with VZ5 on it, but you'll have to be up close to see that. Inside, there are new 'CUPBucket' seats in the front.
There are also what Cupra refers to as 'specially curated' colour options, including Midnight Black, Dark Void, Magnetic Tech Matt, Century Bronze Matt and Enceladus Grey Matt.
Any mechanical changes?
Well, aside from the obvious big change of the turbo 2.5 five-cylinder engine, there's an upgrade for the four-wheel drive system, which gains integrated torque splitter technology, which allows for power to be sent from side to side as well as back and forth.
“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.” says Sven Schuwirth, Executive Vice-President for Sales, Marketing & Aftersales at Cupra. “For the first time, the Cupra Formentor VZ5 will be available in both left- and right-hand drive.”