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Cupra revives the VZ5 — limited-run five-cylinder excitement
Cupra has brought back the high-performance Formentor VZ5, tapping Audi Sport's renowned five-cylinder engine to give the compact crossover a muscular, emotive edge. The Spanish brand confirmed the VZ5 will be produced in a strict run of 4,000 examples and — crucially for global buyers — both left- and right-hand drive cars will be available.
Engine, transmission and drivetrain
At the heart of the Formentor VZ5 sits the Audi-sourced 2.5-liter TSI five-cylinder, now tuned by Cupra to deliver 390 ps (385 hp / 287 kW) and 480 Nm of torque. Power is routed through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox to an AWD system that uses an integrated torque-splitter to manage drive between the axles — improving traction and cornering dynamics compared with a conventional AWD setup.
- Power: 390 ps (385 hp / 287 kW)
- Torque: 480 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: 4.2 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
- Transmission: 7-speed DSG, all-wheel drive with torque splitter
Design updates — subtle but purposeful
Visually the 2026 Formentor VZ5 is defined by performance cues rather than radical redesign. Cupra adds a dedicated front bumper and splitter engraved with the VZ5 emblem, a revised rear bumper and a sports diffuser that houses diagonally stacked, copper-look exhaust tips. Wider wheel arches and exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels (color-matched to the body finish) round out the aggressive stance.
Available finishes lean into premium and sporty tones, from Century Bronze Matte and Enceladus Gray Matte to Magnetic Tech Matte, Dark Void and Midnight Black. The combination of matte and metallic paints amplifies the limited-edition feel.
Interior and technology
Inside, the VZ5 separates itself with Cupra-branded accents, ambient lighting and supportive bucket seats for front occupants. The cabin keeps the modern multimedia and driver-assist features buyers expect from the VW Group platform but adds bespoke trim and subtle luxuries that mark it as the range-topper of the Formentor lineup.
For enthusiasts who value mechanical pedigree, the Formentor VZ5 offers the distinctive soundtrack and character of the five-cylinder engine in a compact crossover package — a combination that remains rare in its segment.
Market positioning and production
Cupra positions the VZ5 as a driver-focused limited edition that fills the space between regular hot crossovers and larger performance SUVs. It shares underlying architecture with other VW Group models but aims to deliver a more emotive driving experience thanks to its engine and chassis tuning. Production begins in Spain in Q1 next year; pricing will be confirmed closer to the on-sale date.
Quote: “We wanted to keep the five-cylinder alive in a vehicle that’s versatile and global — the Formentor VZ5 does just that,” a Cupra spokesperson said.
Source: autoevolution
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