Formentor
Introduced in 2020, the Cupra Formentor was the first model designed and developed exclusively for the Cupra brand. This compact crossover combines a lower, sportier profile than a conventional SUV with a range of petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains. At launch, the most powerful version produced 310 PS, while the wider range was planned to include several power outputs and e-Hybrid variants. The Formentor also received its own chassis tuning, a driver-focused cabin and a strong visual identity built around Cupra’s copper-coloured details. Within the 2020–2024 period represented here, the key distinction is between the original model and the substantial styling and technology update unveiled in April 2024. The available ScanRacer context covers two model variants across these model years, with the listed Base variant spanning 2020 to 2024. (cupraofficial.it)
Variants by year
2024
2020
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
Introduced in 2020, the Cupra Formentor was the first model designed and developed exclusively for the Cupra brand. This compact crossover combines a lower, sportier profile than a conventional SUV with a range of petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains. At launch, the most powerful version produced 310 PS, while the wider range was planned to include several power outputs and e-Hybrid variants. The Formentor also received its own chassis tuning, a driver-focused cabin and a strong visual identity built around Cupra’s copper-coloured details. Within the 2020–2024 period represented here, the key distinction is between the original model and the substantial styling and technology update unveiled in April 2024. The available ScanRacer context covers two model variants across these model years, with the listed Base variant spanning 2020 to 2024. (cupraofficial.it)
History
The Formentor first appeared as a Cupra concept in 2019, when the brand was still establishing a product identity separate from Seat. The production model was unveiled on 2 March 2020. Cupra described it as its first vehicle developed from the ground up for the brand rather than as a straightforward derivative of an existing Seat model. Its crossover body combines a raised driving position, a sloping roofline and proportions closer to a sporty compact car than to a conventional family SUV. (cupra.com) Production began at Martorell in September 2020, with first deliveries announced for the final quarter of that year. The launch programme highlighted the 310 PS 2.0 TSI with 4Drive all-wheel drive before the range expanded to lower-output petrol engines and plug-in hybrid models. In the United Kingdom, Cupra announced petrol versions from 150 to 310 PS as well as a 245 PS e-Hybrid. The VZ designation, derived from the Spanish word “Veloz”, was used for the more performance-oriented versions. (cupraofficial.it) On 29 April 2024, Cupra unveiled a major update to the Formentor. It introduced the brand’s newer design language, including a so-called shark-nose front end, triangular headlamp signatures, an illuminated rear badge and a 12.9-inch central display. The revised range also gained a new 333 PS petrol powertrain and updated e-Hybrid technology with output of up to 272 PS. These changes mark a clear facelift within the first Formentor model cycle rather than evidence of a separate second generation. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com)
Generations
For the 2020–2024 period, the Cupra Formentor belongs to a first generation that received a substantial update in 2024. These should not be treated as two completely separate generations: the vehicle retains its core structure, compact crossover concept and overall market position, while Cupra changes the body design, cabin technology and powertrain range. This distinction matters when cataloguing cars, because a 2024-registered Formentor may correspond either to the final phase of the original design or to the facelift, depending on production timing and market. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com) The original model, sold from 2020, is identified by a more horizontal front treatment, slimmer triangular headlamp graphics and an earlier-generation infotainment layout. Its range combined petrol engines, including 1.5 TSI and 2.0 TSI units, with plug-in hybrid versions. The sportier derivatives could pair all-wheel drive, a dual-clutch transmission and firmer chassis hardware, although exact equipment and engine availability differed between countries. (images.cdn.autocar.co.uk) The update unveiled in April 2024 introduced a more upright and assertive nose, triangular lighting motifs, a rear light treatment incorporating the Cupra badge and a larger central display. It also brought new electrified powertrain technology and a 333 PS petrol version. As a result, the model year alone is not always enough for identification: the front fascia, rear lamps and interior screen are usually more reliable clues. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com)
Key differences
The main differences between 2020–2023 Formentors and the 2024 update are visual. The original model has a lower-looking front end and a different grille treatment. The facelift adopts Cupra’s shark-nose design, headlamps with three triangular motifs and an illuminated rear badge integrated into the light signature. Inside, the central display grows to 12.9 inches and the interface is updated. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com) Mechanical differences depend on market and trim level. The original range extended from a 150 PS petrol engine to the 310 PS 2.0 TSI, with plug-in hybrids producing either 204 or 245 PS in the specifications announced for different markets. The 2024 model adds a 333 PS 2.0 TSI and a new-generation e-Hybrid system rated at up to 272 PS. It is therefore unsafe to assign one engine to a model year without checking the market specification. Trim name, certified output and drivetrain are essential when separating individual variants. (cupraofficial.co.uk)
Photo recognition
A Cupra Formentor can be recognised by its low crossover profile, long bonnet, pronounced shoulders and sloping roofline. The copper-coloured Cupra badge on the grille and wheels, together with the sharply sculpted bodywork, are characteristic brand cues. The more powerful versions may feature larger wheels, upgraded brakes and a more overtly sporting specification, but these items were not universally standard and could vary by country. (cupraofficial.it) To distinguish the pre-2024 model from the facelift, start at the front. The updated car has a more upright nose, headlamps with three triangular light elements and a design closer to newer Cupra products. At the rear, the illuminated Cupra badge integrated into the light bar is a particularly useful clue. Inside, the 12.9-inch display generally identifies the 2024 update. The VZ badge indicates a sportier specification, but it does not by itself confirm the engine or drivetrain. For a definitive identification, the vehicle plate, registration data and original equipment documentation remain more reliable than appearance alone. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com)
Important versions
The 310 PS VZ 2.0 TSI is one of the key launch versions: in Cupra’s announced specification, it combined a turbocharged petrol engine, DSG transmission and 4Drive all-wheel drive. The e-Hybrid models added a plug-in alternative, including a 245 PS version during the early part of the model’s career. In several markets, the 150 PS 1.5 TSI served as a more accessible entry point to the range. (cupraofficial.co.uk) For the facelifted model, the announced 333 PS petrol version and new e-Hybrid system rated at up to 272 PS are the most significant powertrain additions for 2024. Trim names, equipment and engine availability can differ between countries, so each vehicle should be checked against its original market specification rather than identified from the badge alone. (seat-cupra-mediacenter.com)
References
- World Premiere of the CUPRA FormentorSEAT/CUPRA Media Center
- CUPRA starts production of the new FormentorCUPRA
- CUPRA Formentor prices and specifications announcedCUPRA UK
- New CUPRA Formentor: from success story to iconSEAT/CUPRA Media Center
- 2024 CUPRA Formentor CatalogueCUPRA
- Used Cupra Formentor 2020-2024 reviewAutocar
- https://www.em.autocar.co.uk/car-review/cupra/formentor-2020-2024/reliabilityem.autocar.co.uk
- https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/car-reviews/cupra-formentor-review-suv-2020autotrader.co.uk
Technical specifications
Structured data available for versions linked to this model.
| Version | Power | Torque | Top speed | Drivetrain | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 200.1 kw (272 hp) | 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) | 137 mph (220 km/h) | Front Wheel Drive / 6-speed automatic DSG | Plug-in Hybrid |
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the Cupra Formentor produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 2020 - 2024.
- How many Cupra Formentor examples are documented on ScanRacer?
- 9 published scans from 7 members, with the latest photo added in September 2026.
- What is the power output of the Cupra Formentor?
- The sourced technical data lists 200.1 kw (272 hp).