CUPRA FORMENTOR VZ5 2026 | SUV-C | ICE | DEPORTIVO | PRUEBA A FONDO | revistadelmotor.es

2026 CUPRA Formentor VZ5: The Last of a Dying Species In a market increasingly dominated by electrification, the 2026 CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is a rarity. Not only is it a limited edition, but it also keeps alive one of the most charismatic engines remaining in the industry: the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder. This engine is already a living legend within the Volkswagen Group and makes the VZ5 more than just the most powerful version of the Formentor. Under the hood, we find a 2.5 TSI engine that develops 390 hp and 480 Nm of maximum torque. It is paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission and a 4Drive all-wheel-drive system with Torque Splitter, capable of distributing torque between the rear wheels to improve traction and increase agility in corners. CUPRA claims a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4.2 seconds and, for the first time in this new edition, a top speed of 280 km/h. But the figures are only part of the story. What's truly special is how this engine delivers its power. The five-cylinder engine offers a very progressive response, an unmistakable sound, and a mechanical personality that has practically disappeared from the current market. It's one of those cars that still appeals to emotions rather than numbers. A Chassis Prepared for Enjoyment The Formentor VZ5 isn't just about having a great engine. CUPRA has worked extensively on fine-tuning the chassis to harness all that power. It comes standard with the Torque Splitter system, which allows power to be distributed independently between the rear wheels. This improves traction, reduces understeer, and makes the car much more effective when driven fast. It also features a specific Drift mode for the track. The braking system is also top-notch. It's equipped with six-piston Akebono brakes, one of the most appreciated features by demanding drivers, especially when driving the car in a sporty manner. A Design with Its Own Identity Although it maintains the Formentor's silhouette, the VZ5 incorporates numerous exclusive details. At the front, a carbon fiber splitter with the VZ5 logo is prominent, accompanied by a unique bumper and widened wheel arches that reinforce its muscular image. At the rear, four diagonally positioned exhaust outlets appear, one of the model's signature features. The exclusive 20-inch wheels with Copper-colored details further differentiate it from the rest of the range. These are small details, but enough for any enthusiast to immediately recognize that they are looking at something special. An Interior Focused on Driving The cabin maintains CUPRA's usual sporty focus. Highlights include the CUPBucket seats, which offer excellent lateral support, as well as the digital instrument cluster and the latest-generation multimedia system. Configurable ambient lighting and specific finishes help create a distinctly driver-focused atmosphere. It's not a radical or uncomfortable car for everyday use. It remains a perfectly usable compact SUV, with enough space for traveling and daily living. However, every element constantly reminds you that this is the most extreme version of the Formentor. Only 4,000 units worldwide Exclusivity will be one of its main selling points. CUPRA has confirmed a limited production run of just 4,000 units worldwide, a figure considerably lower than that of many regular-production sports cars. Furthermore, it arrives at a particularly symbolic moment for the industry. With increasingly stringent emissions regulations and the transition to electrification, it's very likely that this will be one of the last CUPRAs equipped with an engine of this type. Conclusion The 2026 CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is much more than just the most powerful version of the Spanish SUV. It's a statement of intent. A car that prioritizes sensations, sound, and emotional driving in an era dominated by efficiency and electrification. With 390 hp, all-wheel drive, Torque Splitter, Akebono brakes, and a limited production run of 4,000 units, it becomes one of the most special models CUPRA has ever produced. It may not be the most practical in the lineup, but that's precisely where much of its appeal lies. #Cupra #CupraFormentor #FormentorVZ5 #CupraVZ5 #SportsSUV #TSIEngine #FiveCylinders #PerformanceSUV #CarReview #CarTest #Automotive #Petrolhead #CUPRAOfficial #GTLap #Formentor @CUPRAOfficial