The CUPRA Formentor is the first vehicle uniquely designed and developed for brand. Now, the Formentor is being taken beyond limits with the introduction of the CUPRA Formentor VZ5.
Bringing a five-cylinder heart to the high-performance Crossover SUV, even greater dynamic ability and an even more sophisticated and exclusive experience, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is destined to bring an even more unique proposal to the market.
“The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 pushes boundaries, using the highly acclaimed five-cylinder petrol engine, mixing its high performance with an even more sophisticated exterior design to mark the vehicle as the maximum expression of combustion performance for car enthusiasts,” said Wayne Griffiths, President of CUPRA and SEAT.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5’s five-cylinder 2.5 litre TSI engine, that delivers 390PS (287kW) and 480Nm of torque and maximises excitement behind the wheel.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 clearly demonstrates what CUPRA is capable of doing. A high-performance vehicle that brings something new, dynamic and engaging to the market.
The VZ stands for Veloz in Spanish, meaning quick or fast, the perfect autograph for the most powerful versions of the CUPRA Formentor (from 245PS/180kW). A high-performance crossover SUV that already takes its name from cape Formentor on the Spanish island of Mallorca, one of the most beautiful and wild areas in the Balearics.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5, strengthens these attributes to deliver an even more unique vehicle. Exclusivity is indeed ensured, with the vehicle’s run limited to 7,000 units.
The top of the range 390PS five-cylinder petrol engine offers the ultimate expression of combustion cars, with performance that will shatter perceptions of the brand and what it can deliver.
Mixing an advanced, tuneable chassis with driving modes and DCC Slider, progressive steering, a quick-shifting transmission with the assurance of the all-wheel drive system.
But the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 adds even more layers to the high-performance crossover SUV’s dynamism and emotionality.
Torque splitter technology shifts the power from the five-cylinder 2.5 litre TSI engine between the front and rear wheels to maximise traction. But it harnesses another ability too. The advanced drivetrain technology can transfer power between the left and right side too making the CUPRA Formentor even more stable when the driving becomes increasingly involved.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 also includes a specific mode made for close tracks: Drift Mode. It’s about pure enjoyment and fun, as it will bring beaming smiles to those that get behind the wheel and use it.
The advanced technologies are veiled in an exterior design that moves the aesthetics beyond limits, using carbon fibre details and a more aggressive look – perfect for the VZ5’s performance focused character.
Inside the cabin provides modernity and sportiness with a unique take on the feel of the CUPRA brand. Interior highlights include the CUPRA steering wheel, a 12’’ infotainment and connectivity solutions. The finishing touch is the brand-new leather CUPBucket seats, presented for the first time with the VZ5. Those new bucket seats deliver a sportier seating position and have been trimmed by the experts and race-pilots ergonomically in this way.
And as the roads become busier, safety and convenience also take on an important role. Its range of driver assistance and safety systems means that the crossover SUV will provide one of the safest drives in the segment.
Powertrain
The renown turbocharged five-cylinder TSI engine under the CUPRA Formentor VZ5’s bonnet roars performance.
The iconic unit mixes direct-injection and turbocharging to help it achieve its peak power output of 390PS (287kW) from between 5,700rpm and 7,000rpm, while peak torque of 480Nm is available from 2,250rpm.
The inline five-cylinder unit benefits from an aluminium engine block, integrates a valve lift system on the exhaust side and uses 250 bar fuel injection to maximise the air-fuel mix, helping it deliver its astounding performance figures.
The engine’s particular firing sequence of 1-2-4-5-3 and the unusual number of cylinders make for a very special rhythm and unique engine sound, helping give the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 its natural sound – aided in no small part by the dual-branch exhaust system that emphasises the characteristic sound of the five-cylinder unit.
The astonishing 2.5 litre engine is linked to a quick shifting seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The combination means the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 can reach 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds and delivers a limited top speed of 250km/h. Numbers that will give the driver some real goose bumps behind the wheel.
Finally, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 also benefits from a shift light indicator, visible when the gears are shifted in manual mode. Green LEDs are activated as revolutions increase. As the engine gets closer to its rev limit of 7.000rpm, the LEDs flash red.
“The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is the most powerful and sophisticated variant of the high-performance crossover SUV ever created to date and I am convinced that with its exclusive performance elements, it will become a dream for car enthusiasts,” said Dr. Werner Tietz, Executive Vice-President for Research and Development at CUPRA and SEAT. “The incredible five-cylinder engine, the slick DSG dual-clutch transmission and characteristic sound deliver a vehicle without parallel. And with the addition of the torque splitter and the new Drift Mode, car enthusiasts will be able to experience the ultimate in terms of driving dynamics on closed tracks.”
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5’s different driving modes are easily selectable using the CUPRA mode select button on the CUPRA steering wheel, changing the vehicle’s attitude, making it more focused on whatever the road throws up. Each driving mode (Comfort, Sport, CUPRA, Drift, Individual, Offroad), offers a pre-set configuration, which adapts the throttle response and gearbox, the steering wheel, the suspension, the torque splitter, the ESC as well as the ambient light, amongst others.
And for the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 the chassis controller is optimised, not only for the increased power output from the five-cylinder engine but also to improve dynamics in any scenario.
Chassis
Any performance vehicle needs a chassis capable of providing an equalled dynamic experience. The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 achieves this goal by seamlessly integrating advanced chassis technologies that help build an experience like no other. The starting point is to perfect the basic ingredients.
The high-performance crossover SUV retains its chassis technologies; multilink rear and MacPherson struts at the front. But the VZ5 is 10mm lower than the CUPRA Formentor VZ 310PS, helping it to hunker down to the road, making it even more dynamic.
From the base CUPRA’s engineers have integrated a range of technologies that bring out the vehicle’s character, deliver an intuitive, engaging, accessible experience, but one with an extra dose of energy.
Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) with 15 levels of damping adjustment continually provides the best set-up for each wheel depending on the driving conditions and the driving mode selected by the driver.
But it doesn’t stop there. The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 solidifies its composure thanks to the 4Drive all-wheel drive system, which is designed to complement the driving feeling.
And where that would be adequate for other vehicles, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 adds further dynamic dimensions to bolster driving involvement.
The high-performance crossover SUV integrates Torque Splitter technology to increase agility. Housed on the rear wheel, the system is electro-hydraulically controlled with two independent clutches and allow for independent torque control on each rear wheel. This means that it can shift power between rear left and rear right wheels during cornering giving the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 even greater dexterity when driving becomes more focused.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5’s chassis system allowed engineers to include a new Drift Mode. When you’re off the public highway, the high-performance crossover SUV can show its character as a truly fun car. In this mode, the ESC is completely disconnected and using the Torque Splitter technology, full power can be directed to one rear wheel, helping push the car around a bend as if it was pirouetting.
And when maximum braking control is needed the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 delivers thanks to 18” brakes with six piston Akebono callipers (375mm x 36mm) housed in the crossover SUV’s exclusive CUPRA 20” alloy wheels. Its reassurance amplified no matter what the requirements.
Design
The design team gave the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 an even greater feeling of performance and character.
The dynamic proportions heightened by the visual emphasis placed towards the rear of the car which puts emphasis on the length of the bonnet remains, drawing the eye to the metallic CUPRA badge at the front on the black grille with the new Sport Black Matt coloured-coded frame. Further down sits the newly designed bumper grille.
Below the CUPRA signature styled headlights are two air intakes that emphasise the vehicle’s more aggressive face. The carbon fibre lateral front splitter redirect air into the intercoolers, improving refrigeration.
The side shape of the high-performance crossover coupe specifies the power found under the bonnet and the overall dynamism of the vehicle and with the addition of flared wheel arches – housing the vehicles wider track – that are home to the VZ5’s 20” copper machined alloy wheels, designed exclusively for the vehicle along with the 18” brakes with Akebono callipers in copper, the VZ5 exudes dynamism.
The elegant yet strong design continues at the rear. The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is undoubtedly a performance car, and the VZ5-specific carbon fibre rear diffuser and diagonal quad exhaust pipes with copper trim reinforce its personality. Finally, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 carries the CUPRA lettering in Black Chrome, as well as a new exclusive logo VZ5, also in black chrome.
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 will be available in Midnight Black, Magnetic Tech Matt and Petrol Blue Matt.
Inside, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5’s cabin provides a heightened sense of sportiness with a unique take on the feel of the CUPRA brand.
Occupants are cocooned by high-quality materials, with brushed dark aluminium and copper accents making the cabin feel modern and contemporary. CUPBucket seats – available either in petrol blue or black leather – mounted low in the cabin maximise space and deliver a more ergonomic seating position in a sporty way.
In addition, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 will be offered in an even more exclusive version from 2022. This unique edition will be offered with a new exterior colour, Taiga Grey, matched with a specific interior – progressive graphics in Dinamica Black, perforated with a copper backing rounded in a brown Nappa leather seats. A limited edition of 999 units which will be available from 2022.
The driver’s relationship with the interior mixes the tactility and feedback of the steering wheel with the modernity of the customisable Digital Cockpit and centrepiece 12” infotainment touchscreen which provides the functionality and connectivity to all occupants and reduces button count.
Connectivity
The CUPRA Formentor VZ5 is the pinnacle of combustion performance, and that is matched by its determination to offer the highest levels of connectivity and digitalisation making part of the customer’s digital eco-system.
Integrating the most advanced infotainment and connectivity solutions, the VZ5 keeps customers in touch, allowing them to bring their digital lives into the vehicle but never distracting from the pleasure of driving. The CUPRA Formentor is a driver’s car first and foremost.
Inside the cabin the pixel-dense 10.25” Digital Cockpit epitomises the approach to digitalisation. The system provides greater functionality, allowing drivers to view a range of information, from classic analogue dials to full-colour maps and navigation.
Completely customisable, the 1,280 x 480-pixel TFT display provides a specific CUPRA View mode, putting information including RPM, torque, power, turbo pressure and G-acceleration giving greater clarity and creating a more emotional, focused display. Without forgetting the shift light indicator visible when the gears are shifted in manual mode.
The cluster is augmented by the 12” infotainment system built on the MIB3 platform. Incorporating a 1,560 x 700-pixel capacitive display, 3D online navigation and new interaction methods, with both natural voice recognition and gesture control.
The system combines the Wireless Full Link system making it compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. So, whether you want to bring your contact list, music, podcasts or mapping systems into the car, they’re all available, and can be accessed in a controlled, intuitive, safe manner.
Capacitive touch technology improves interaction, making the use of the system responsive and precise. Touch sliders add to the ease of use, allowing control of the Climatronic as well as volume control.
Voice recognition is arguably one of the most natural ways to interact with devices, especially as we become increasingly used to home assistants from the consumer electronics world.
The system can be used to control the Climatronic, find navigation information or search for music in a safer and easier way. Simply say the wake-up words “Hola, Hola” and the system is ready to interact with. Occupants use natural language and commands, making corrections and referencing previous commands.
The connection with the outside world is growing in importance. CUPRA Connect brings online services directly into the vehicle thanks to an embedded SIM. Customers can access downloadable apps, online radio and an expanding ecosystem of functionality meaning the system will always be up to date.
And when users are away from their vehicle, they can access vehicle information including driving data, parking information, vehicle status and set up speed alerts using the CUPRA Connect app.
The embedded SIM also brings improved safety into the vehicle as users benefit from the eCall service. If an accident occurs the vehicle can directly contact the emergency services either manually or automatically. And should the worst happen the vehicle can relay important data including car position, engine type, and number of passengers making it easier for them to assist.
And, to make sure connections are never lost, the CUPRA Formentor includes Qi standard protocol inductive charging for mobile devices (Connectivity Box), as well as four USB-C ports (two in the front, two in the rear) and Bluetooth connectivity so you’re never out of touch.
Safety
A
suite of safety and convenience technologies make the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 one of the safest and most convenient vehicles in the segment. Highlights include Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Travel Assist, Side and Exit Assist and Emergency Assist.
The Predictive ACC system can position the vehicle based on route and GPS data delivered from the navigation system, allowing it to correct its speed depending on the road layout ahead – bends, roundabouts, junctions, speed limits and built-up areas. And using input from the front mounted camera and traffic sign recognition, it can adjust vehicle speed when limits change.
The Travel Assist feature uses information from the ACC and Lane Assist to actively keep the vehicle in the centre of the lane and adjust speed to the flow of the traffic – over the entire speed range.
Side and Exit Assist technology detects what your eyes can’t with blind spot detection and adds an Exit Warning when you’ve parked and want to leave the vehicle, giving an acoustic and visual caution if someone or something is approaching.
One of the biggest additions is the introduction of Emergency Assist, making sure the driver remains focused on driving and doesn’t become distracted with visual and acoustic warnings. If there is no reaction from the driver, the system can initiate braking jolts, if there is no change the vehicle can come to a complete stop and activate the warning lights. Once parked, the CUPRA Formentor VZ5 can directly contact the emergency services using the eCall system.
The mix of technologies creates an incredible level of safety but have been integrated in a manner that brings convenience without the feeling of control being taken away from the driver. An important consideration in a CUPRA, even one with performance spirit of the VZ5, a vehicle seeking to position the driver’s needs as the central priority.
Add to these the integration of seven airbags, including a standard front-central airbag and the result is a high-performance crossover SUV that can meet the dynamic needs of not only the CUPRA brand but also the enthusiast, while providing the safety standards demanded by the market.
CUPRA Formentor VZ5
| Technical data | |
| Engine | 2.5 TSI 390PS (287kW) 7-speed DSG 4Drive |
| Cylinder | 5-cyl in line |
| Displacement | 2480cc |
| Bore and stroke | 82,5x 92,8 |
| Compression ratio | 10 |
| Max. Torque [Nm] @ [1/min] | 480Nm, between 2.250-5.700 |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 4.2 secs |
| Maximum speed | 250km/h* |
