Cupra Formentor V1 vs. Cupra Formentor V2: which is better?
The Cupra Formentor is a top-quality SUV that offers agility and high performance – but which is better between the V1 and V2 models?
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Although there are seemingly hundreds of crossovers and SUVs to pick from, there’s nothing that looks quite like the Cupra Formentor.
It’s a stylish, sporty model with bags of appeal, but its endless customisation options makes buying one a complex affair.
Don't worry, though – we’ve outlined all the differences you need to know between the V1 and V2 models, adding a few helpful tips along the way.
Cupra Formentor V2 vs. Cupra Formentor V1: which has more style?
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V1 and V2 refer to the trim level, which means both cars look almost identical because they’re based on the same Cupra Formentor.
These are the lowest trim levels available, sitting below the even more stylish VZ1, VZ2 and VZ3 trims, however, every version of the Formentor stands out for its sporty looks.
Entry-level V1 models come with striking 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, distinctive LED headlights and taillights, and dynamic indicators.
The rear end of the car features a sporty bumper area and diffuser, with black exhaust pipes. Elsewhere, there’s copper detailing, which is a Cupra trademark.
More broadly, the Formentor has a long bonnet and sloping roofline that makes it look like a coupé on stilts, and it looks much more aggressive than other similar-sized crossovers.
Inside, you’ll find ambient lighting, comfortable sports seats and a mix of high-quality materials.
Higher-spec V2 models have larger 19-inch alloys to add to the sporty look.
Inside, they have leather bucket seats and leather trim on the dashboard, plus black headlining, which is something you’d often find in sports cars.
What is it like to drive a Cupra Formentor V2 vs. Formentor V1?
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Because V1 and V2 refer to the levels of equipment and not the specific car, both are available with a pair of different engine options.
The standard pick is the 150hp 1.5-litre petrol engine, which should be able to do around 40mpg. It’s perfectly punchy, but it’s not as characterful as the larger 2.0-litre engines available in other trim levels.
V1 and V2 versions are also available with a plug-in hybrid setup, which uses a 1.4-litre petrol engine.
It comes with 204hp, but higher-spec models can get a 245hp version of it, too. It’s quicker than the 1.5-litre petrols and can be way more economical if you can charge it regularly.
Cupra reckons you could get up to 200mpg, but that’s only if you charge the battery frequently and rarely exceed its 30-40-mile range.
Drive it on longer journeys, and the petrol engine has the extra weight of the battery to carry around.
Only the 1.5-litre petrol is available with a manual gearbox, but the smooth-shifting automatic that comes with the hybrid (or optionally on the 1.5-litre petrol) is one of the best around – from any brand.
Cupra was designed to be a sporty spinoff from SEAT, so the Formentor is tuned for an engaging drive and has accurate steering and throttle responses.
What is the technology in the Cupra Formentor V1 and Formentor V2?
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All versions, including V1, come with a digital instrument cluster, a wireless phone charger, keyless entry and a large 12-inch infotainment display with smartphone connectivity.
You’ll also find plenty of driver safety aids and technology, such as adaptive cruise control.
V2 models get a little more car tech, including heated front seats, electric adjustment for the driver’s seat, and a reversing camera.
How big is the Cupra Formentor V1 boot space compared to the Formentor V2?
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Again, there’s nothing to separate the boot size of each trim level so both have a 450-litre boot, which is slightly smaller than what you’ll find in a BMW X2 (470 litres).
Note that the plug-in hybrid’s battery takes up some boot room, so if you go for one of these models, you’ll have to make do with a smaller 345-litre boot.
Still, that’s about what you’d find in a family hatchback.
Formentor V1 vs. Formentor V2: which is more reliable?
Cupra belongs to the Volkswagen Group, along with VW, SEAT, Skoda and Audi, so you can be sure that plenty of research and development went into creating the Formentor.
It’s also built on the same platform as many other popular vehicles, like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Golf, and Audi A3.
In fact, all of the engines used across all of the Formentor’s trim levels beyond just V1 and V2 are borrowed from the Volkswagen Group, so they’re comprehensively tried and tested.
Being part of this group also means that getting hold of parts should be fairly easy, and they should be affordable, too.
It’s worth noting the car’s five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, which shows that Cupra hasn’t cut corners.
Used Cupra Formentor V1 vs. used Cupra Formentor V2: which should I buy?
Every version of the Cupra Formentor is incredibly well-equipped, and unless you’re after some high-end car tech, we reckon that the V1 model is an excellent pick for most buyers.
If you can afford it – and going for the entry-level V1 trim could help – choose the plug-in hybrid version. It’s quick, refined, and efficient.