The facelifted Cupra Formentor has arrived in Israel. The Formentor, a coupe-crossover with dramatic design and a sporty orientation, is the first independent model from the sub-brand, which has evolved into a manufacturer continuing to operate alongside SEAT.
As before, the Formentor will be offered in two engine versions: A 1.5-liter and the VZ with a stronger 2.0-liter engine. Both versions feature the new front end of the Cupra family—an enclosed shark-nose design, similar to the manufacturer’s electric cars, although these models still only come with internal combustion engines. There are also new headlights, both front and rear, now connected by a light strip that includes an illuminated logo. Inside the cabin, the most significant change is a larger multimedia screen, now 12.9 inches compared to the previous 12 inches, and a new steering wheel design with drive mode control and an engine start button.
In terms of engines, the plug-in version is currently discontinued, and the model continues with the same power units, though with slight modifications. The 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine, producing 150 hp, is now equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system. The 0-100 km/h acceleration takes 9 seconds, and it is front-wheel drive. The VZ's 2.0-liter engine gains 23 hp, bringing its total to 333 hp, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.8 seconds. This version has permanent all-wheel drive and now includes a rear limited-slip differential. Both versions come with a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission.
In terms of equipment, the 1.5-liter version includes LED headlights, adaptive dampers, drive mode selector (including a "Drift" mode in the VZ), wireless charging pad, keyless entry and start, three-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, electric trunk door, and more. The VZ version adds a deep, electrically adjustable sports driver's seat, a "Sennheiser" sound system, Cupra brakes, Matrix LED headlights, and more.
Safety features include lane departure correction, autonomous braking (including reverse), blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, door exit warning for oncoming traffic, and more.
Both models have seen a price increase. The 1.5-liter version now costs an additional NIS 5,000, bringing the price to NIS 190,000, while the VZ version, which has gained significant power and equipment compared to the pre-facelift model, has increased by NIS 30,000 to NIS 300,000.