How does the drive in the Fermentor compare to the Kodiaq RS? Sounds much more lithe in the handling department. I'm loving these new Cupras, would have brought one instead of my Skoda Octavia RS wagon if they were available last year.
Had one here in the UK for 8 months (hybrid 245hp) love it, very good drivers car even in the hybrid version. I have only 2 nit picks. 1) the delay from the auto box when you kick down is awful, if you're overtaking it is quite worrying, you want the power instantly. This can be avoided easily however by just using the paddles and manually drop a gear or two. 2) The overall user interface experience both central screen and it 'operating system' generally isn't very intuitive and takes a lot of working out which can be frustrating. Example, in the hybrid if I want to switch from electric to full hybrid I have to go into the screen menu, then into a sub menu then into the relevant area and select. Thats almost dangerous all that distraction. A one touch 'button' on the steering wheel would be the safe solution. Everything else is great about this car.
I have a Golf GTD and that has a dangerous delay too: wonder if it’s a group gearbox thing? If you charge up regularly, what mpg are you seeing and what range on a tank?
@@fatfreddyscoat7564 School runs in a mix of electric and hybrid (its a 40 mile round trip here) I get anywhere between 70 - 140 mpg depending on the temperature. On long runs to London and back (400 mile round trip) I get around 50mpg as thats mostly on the petrol engine. Around town etc is all on the electric. I do a lot of long runs so Im mostly using the petrol engine/hybrid and have this car because of the tax breaks not so much fuel economy so my overall avge is about 60mpg. If you're a shorter tripper it will be much better.
@@scientifik5931 I think it depends on your luck, I had the vz1 hybrid and had nothing but problems with the infotainment for the year I had the car, eventually got rid of it and got the vz2 ateca which I am loving so much more than the formentor
This is the gentleman's Golf R in my opinion. Having come from a worked 8V Audi S3 with the same EA888, this with a few mods would be an absolute weapon and a fantastic daily driver.
Hi from the uk, I have had the hyundai i30n and now I have one of these, I can promise that the ride quality is like night and day different, uk roads are terrible too and in the i30n even in comfort it was not a good daily, where as with this you can make it even comfortable than in comfor mode if you sort it in individual mode, I would say cupra mode is drivable in the uk.
Hi! Can you please give me an advice? It would help a lot. I am tied between the 2 cars you mentioned, as a daily, can't fully decide. I prefer the looks and character of the i30N facelift (fastback actually), but is it truly that uncomfortable on bad roads? My country has a lot of nasty pavement, so my major concern is not having to deal with bent wheels all the time, though I can sacrifice a bit of damping. Did you own the prefacelift i30N? Heard the fastback FL has better damping. I would really love to hear what you have to say and would help me a lot. Cheers!
@@Neffestuss hi mate, yes I had a pfl but I had a fastback and that is where they had softened the dampers a little, not sure if they did It even more on the face-lift, best way to describe the hardness is that in full N mode, no one in the uk could use it, in individual mode with everything on maximum except the dampers on comfort it is driveable BUT your passengers will complain more, cause you won't tell as much in the drivers seat cause it is an exciting car and you do get more pleasure driving it, also within 1 week of ownership I had hit a pot hole and blown the tire, pirrelli p zeros over here cost £189 at the time, but it is one of the most fun cars I have ever driven, test drive both cars I would say if you can, if you want excitement and can deal with a more harsh ride, I would pick the N, but you also haven't consider the amount of black plastics in the interior, after a year or so they got on my nerves and I wanted a bit more luxury, but that's just me.
@@gavinlewis3049 Thank you very much for taking your time to answer. I have a better understanding now of what differentiates the 2 vehicles. Unfortunately, I cannot find anywhere to test drive the i30N in my country as it is highly unpopular, only if I travel abroad, but I will take in consideration everything you said. Many thanks! Farewell!
Great review/introduction. Looking forward to the full follow up. Your enthusiasm wore off on me, and I was looking up prices on the side. Genuinely stoked that these are coming out; a fun, sporty avenue for great platforms. Initially when I saw Cupra was coming, I couldn’t see a point - but lately, watching Skoda’s interesting price incline, with option packages sprinkled about like boulders on a mountain I lost interest in climbing, I have to say: I am all for this Cupra business.
@@MrArjanOskam Objectively …. It’s a lot of fun. Great performance and very practical. I’m approaching retirement age, so don’t have any kids. So not sure how roomy it would be for a family regards luggage space. But the back seat is plenty roomy. The only gripe I have about it is that the entertainment system can play up a bit. It’s more reliable now than when I bought it 18 months ago. But it’s not the best compared to the AUdi I had before it. Also, in Sydney, it’s serviced by Alto. I swear I know more about the car than they do. But again, they get better with time. It’s a new car and a new marque after all. Anyway, it’s very much a drivers’ car. Lots of fun at the lights and through twisties. But you flick the button on the steering wheel and it reverts back to a normal everyday ride.
Amazing car I’d buy over the new Golf R - can’t wait until Cupar range here as offers more flair for your $ than we’ve seen locally for sometime from Europe 🤘
Very nice work Tom, the video shown the front vent and it looks similar to the Golf 8 vents. Thus this Formentor is stretched version of Golf using the MQB platform. It is not derived from a Tiguan platform. There are real buttons, no BS touch buttons from the Golf. About the passive rear steering or is it the effect from the wet multi clutch rear diff which spin the wheel faster or pulls the car in from the outside wheels. The car looks nice and drive well in the wet. Body roll? designed intend for better wet traction, otherwise the back will aquaplane across to uncontrolled over steer but, stiffer suspension is deadly fun on the dry.
Bit of confusion here: there’s no difference between ‘derived from Golf’ and ‘derived from Tiguan’; all share the MQB platform, and MQB Evo is just a small development of MQB. Air vents and interior controls don’t come into the chassis. As for the passive rear steer; it’s suspension, as it occurs off throttle and this car doesn’t have a multi-clutch rear diff regardless.
Too bad SEAT abandoned Aus so many years ago... they improved dramatically after that... glad to see them return with a competitive car like this and a cooler name
Gday Tom, nice intro to Cupra. You may cover this off in the full review, however how did you find road noise on track in the cabin? I listened to this video with headphones and the track section sounded like there’s a lot of road noise entering the cabin.
Hey Tom, thanks for the great review. Do you have an idea if the 1.5 MHEV engine in the new A3 is going to make its way to South Africa. At the moment we've got the car with the 1.4 still. Do you think it's a good idea to buy an A3 with than engine? Is it smooth and reliable enough in your opinion?
@@acde9355 No, spoke with the local Audi and there have no clue when the change will happen. I don't know if they're just misinformed but the latest CARmag and configurator backs their take up.
the 1.5 has kangarooing issues + the ppf sounds like something that could be a headache down the track. On the flipside the 1.4 is bulletproof... it's been around for a decade with no major flaws
Great review, these look nice. From what I gather the only thing special about the launch vehicles is the inclusion of the brembo brakes on the Formentor and Leon and the akrapovich exhaust on the Ateca. You're getting these but you're paying an extra ~$3k so only marginally cheaper than if you added them as an option. I think I'd just stick to the normal models
Thanks for the review Tom. I know you have touched on this previously and it has considerably less grubt than the VZx however in your opinion, how does the 140kw V stack up against our existing competitors in CX-5, Tiguan, Sportage and Rav4?
In case Tom doesn't get back to you, sometimes they don't revisit the comments section, here are my thoughts. If you need extra boot space, or more boot space than the Formentor (420 litres on awd versions, less on PHEV version) , then all those you mentioned may suit your needs better. RAV4 hybrid will definitely have the fuel consumption advantage (and most likely resale) if that is a key factor for you. The reviews I have read indicate the Cupra is easily the more entertaining drive and will be more unique in Australia. Whatcar UK gave the Formentor Best Coupé SUV 2022. Another thing to consider is the delivery timeframe, RAV4 hybrid is meant to be over 12 months, Tiguan and Sportage can have large delays (depending on the version), whilst Mazda told me a month or so ago that there was no issue with CX-5 supply on any version, although this may have changed since. I ruled out the RAV4 as I couldn't wait 12+ months, the Tiguan because of higher cost and availability, the Sportage on availability of upspec models (also think diesel is the best sportage engine) and the driving experience, leaving the CX-5, nice car but didn't excite me. I don't need the extra boot space and wanted more performance (if going petrol) and excitement so have a deposit down on the Launch Edition VZx, delivery due in August. I understand orders on the normal Cupras are due to start shortly if not already. Goodluck. Edit: I should have mentioned that I rang Cupra who advised delivery of the normal Cupras may also be subject to some delays, worst case December, although they hoped otherwise. Another factor why I decide to go VZx Launch Edition.
Hey Tom, did they mention anything around how they intend to support their customers as all the servicing, recalls etc would be handled by partners who might likely prioritise their other brands. Also any info on when we could see some in the flesh?
Cupra will have a service centre here in Sydney and dedicated stores in each capital city. In more remote areas expect Volkswagen service. Wasn’t a major issue when Skoda launched as I recall.
Hi Tom. What do you rate the comfort of the seats and is the overall drive a comfortable one. As you said there were no bumps on the track but first impressions?
My good mate in Germany Tom test drove the equivalent VZX some 6 or so months ago. He loved it! He wanted it! He’s married with 2 kids. He’s a family man. Audi Q3 won out!😭 His boss got this though!😈🤣…. Come to think of it, my 2017 Skoda Superb Sportline wagon is now 5 years old….🤤😍
Need to replace an S3 with something a bit higher but without too much of a performance drop. I think I may have to investigate this further if they will have stock.
Enthusiastic initial drive there Tom. My questions are: as you have driven the 140kw V model, what is it like to drive compared to this top end model and does it have the same adaptive dampers and Haldex 4WD system?
Same dampers, same AWD system, but noticeably less power (that said - probably not as much of a problem when you’re not on a huge, fast circuit like SMSP). It has small wheels, so ride quality should be great on the V.
Is it roughly the same size as a Tiguan R. I have a family and back seat room for the teenagers is important :). Seems good value against the Tiguan R.
I think it is not fair to compare it with a Tiguan. The Formentor looks better but the Tiguan is quite bigger and a more practical car than the Formentor. If you need to fit 4 adults for a long trip and need luggage space Tiguan is certainly a better option than the Formentor.
Hey Tom - may be a silly question but is it too small in the boot for a mid sized Dog to be comfortable on a long run and (separately to he dog of course) will it fit a full set of golf clubs and buggy etc. My only concern is its a bit small in the boot. I am one of the 50 that has had an order accepted - petrol blue Matte VZX - just a bit worried now - is it going to be big enough. I cant find any actual mm dimensions of the boot - beyond the 420ltr measurement
Hey, quick question as you mentioned the ski hatch, how does one take these cars with 19"-20" wheels to the Alps where snow chains are mandated? I'm in VIC where apparently you have to have them on.
The Formentor is more of a Coupe style crossover, so it will be noticeably smaller, but mostly so in the cargo area. Passenger space should be similar.
If you’re shopping in that space, consider the updated Macan S (my pick) or GTS (if you want stiff suspension). Also consider the F-Pace SVR, which is actually a major performance bargain. And don’t forget X3 M40i and SQ5 TDI, which are both well rounded.
This car looks great in my favourite matte colour however, if it got scratched then in most cases, it would require an expensive full respray which is the reason, I did not buy one. You would think in this day and age that there would be greater protection in the painting process to either provide a scratch resistant surface or at least make it as easy to remove a scratch as it is on a standard gloss car finish. Great video, well done
how can you not give the passenger seat front same as the driver seat, this is crap. how much will you save just by cutting down this feature ? and they are charging 67k, r u serious ? check out the features on kia sportage gt-line diesel.
USELESS INFO BOOT SPACE TIGUAN 520L / 615L seats slid forward FORMENTOR 420L / 450 2WD VISUAL DECEPTION masterclass with my wonky eyes and dodgy internet looks as LONG as a ALLSPACE but its smaller ( L x H ) than a TUGAN
Why do reviews so often concentrate on the "full fat" versions? Because they're sexy? In reality, most people will - I assume - be buying the basic model. so why not concentrate on that? Its obvious the more powerful versions will be more fun. Question is (for most of us), what's the basic one like?
Volkswagen Group repeatedly tells us the majority of the sales in Australia are for high spec versions. That said, we do review base and mid spec cars regularly as well.
Thanks for the quick reply. However, all the reviews on the Cupra focus on the top-spec models. I'm trying to decide between a basic (V2) Cupra Formentor and an R-Line VW Tiguan. But the only comparison I can find here in TH-cam is between the high-powered versions! Could you tell me which one you'd go for if you had two young children to drive around for half the week, but wanted a reasonably "fun" car for the rest of the time?
This car is not better than a mk2 tiguan. I had a mk2 tiguan Rline that I traded in for an M2 comp. We then needed a bigger car for my misses and bought her a cupra formentor v2 1.5. I have no problem with the cars power, looks or handling, but it is not on par with a tiguan. Its build quality is horrendous, the rear camera stopped working 2 weeks after getting the car. Itsos is a joke. Any driver assistance you don't like you have to switch it off every time you get in the car. The heating controls are awkward. After having so many vw we thought this would be a safe bet. It wasn't. Will never buy another cupra again.
Chasing Cars : having a boot space of 440 litres kinda doesn't make this a mid sized SUV but rather a SMALL SIZED SUV. Get your facts straightened mates and stop fanboying for the germans.
@@chasingcars boot space is one of the 3 main factors that determine the size rank of any car (boot space, length of the vehicle and inner legroom space). And no, Seat Cupra is spanish but is owned by VW and has been owned by VW for 20 years now. And they also use every VW platform and every VW engine. So what's up, illiterate youngsters ?
@@chasingcars buttercup, this reaction of yours is an outstanding child like inability to acknowledge domination by intellect and knowledge :). Nice buttercup, nice :).
Boot space is significantly smaller than the Tiguan but other than that interior space seems good. Maybe the Formentor is a more comparable size to the XC40?
Keep in mind Tiguan’s claim of 615L boot space is only when the back seats are pushed as far forward as they’ll go. Still a bit boot, but 615L is misleading
@@chasingcars very true but even so, this boot is smaller than cx5 which is technically in the same class and already dwarfed by the likes of Rav 4 and Tiguan boots
The more reviews of this car I see, the more I'm liking it, and thinking to go with the V, rather than waiting the 8mths or so for a Karoq 140 sports line 🤔
Macan is a Money burner… good SUV but, reliability… specially oil leaks (2017 GTS - 95B). Mine with 74k km already twice!!! First @ 40k km (repaired at Porsche) and now the second @ 74k km.
When looking to change my car late last year I test drove a couple of Porsche Macans, I then had a test drive in a Formentor VZ2 310, the latter now sits on my drive.
Nice video, keep up the great content, my #1 car channel in OZ. Keen to see how the VZx stacks up against the Tiguan R, especially considering the price difference. Know the R has the new trick diff, but in every day driving would it make that much of a difference?
Will need to do a comparo to find out, but my sense was that the Formentor was so good on track - steering, suspension, chassis tuning, AWD system - I wasn’t missing the Tiguan R
This car is NICE! However, only the VZ5 would have me reaching for my wallet. Shame we are being discriminated against for driving on the wrong side of the road compared to the Spaniards! Make a RH drive VZ5 Cupra por favor!
Tom, loaded question but here it is. Is this a poor man's Macan? Love the GTS but daily needs mean that's a lot of money for Sydney driving and have a weekend fun car in a 911. Would appreciate your views. Thanks
I’d like to consider one of these but petrified about the shockingly poor VW after sales service and court proven propensity to through customers under the bus. How will cupra guarantee they will support their customers? When I went out to view a cuppa in Perth, the address provided by their website was a Mercedes Benz dealership. Not a Cupra in sight and not a good first impression cupra. If you’re not ready to sell a car, don’t advertise them. I’d steer clear of this brand for a few years until they prove themselves unless they give an offer too good to resist (unlikely in this market). Note no tow bar available until next version. Conveniently left off this review. You’ve been warned.
Hope the Cupra brand has a better stint on our shores than it's Spanish hombre Seat. The styling, and Tom's delight at driving this new Ninó on the block a winner for me! Would still have concerns about re-sale, but I personally wouldn't mind if it's as much fun as it seems. @chasingcars New Tiguan R(the one with more than stickers) vs this would make a good spectacle.
Hi Tom, thank you for changing the way you introduce each ep, especially this one. The way you present has improved dramatically, unfortunately I stopped watching this channel for that reason but you’ve done a fantastic job in the video and present very well. 🤭🤗😬
Prices and details for the Formentor: www.chasingcars.com.au/cupra/formentor/
Tom, do you know when the order books open?
May for the Launch Edition, June for the other variants.
@@chasingcars Thanks mate, been waiting for the Formentor since they announced it is coming to Oz.
How does the drive in the Fermentor compare to the Kodiaq RS? Sounds much more lithe in the handling department.
I'm loving these new Cupras, would have brought one instead of my Skoda Octavia RS wagon if they were available last year.
Have you driven the Tiggy R yet?
Had one here in the UK for 8 months (hybrid 245hp) love it, very good drivers car even in the hybrid version. I have only 2 nit picks. 1) the delay from the auto box when you kick down is awful, if you're overtaking it is quite worrying, you want the power instantly. This can be avoided easily however by just using the paddles and manually drop a gear or two. 2) The overall user interface experience both central screen and it 'operating system' generally isn't very intuitive and takes a lot of working out which can be frustrating. Example, in the hybrid if I want to switch from electric to full hybrid I have to go into the screen menu, then into a sub menu then into the relevant area and select. Thats almost dangerous all that distraction. A one touch 'button' on the steering wheel would be the safe solution. Everything else is great about this car.
I have a Golf GTD and that has a dangerous delay too: wonder if it’s a group gearbox thing?
If you charge up regularly, what mpg are you seeing and what range on a tank?
@@fatfreddyscoat7564 School runs in a mix of electric and hybrid (its a 40 mile round trip here) I get anywhere between 70 - 140 mpg depending on the temperature. On long runs to London and back (400 mile round trip) I get around 50mpg as thats mostly on the petrol engine. Around town etc is all on the electric. I do a lot of long runs so Im mostly using the petrol engine/hybrid and have this car because of the tax breaks not so much fuel economy so my overall avge is about 60mpg. If you're a shorter tripper it will be much better.
its just dsg being dsg.. TCU tune and its fixed
I’ve owned this car (full fat) in the UK for the last six months and it performs way above my expectations.
How have you found the infotainment and controls such as heating etc? watched other reviews and they say its not great
@@scientifik5931 screen can be a bit laggy just after starting but generally everything seems to work ok 👍
@@scientifik5931 I think it depends on your luck, I had the vz1 hybrid and had nothing but problems with the infotainment for the year I had the car, eventually got rid of it and got the vz2 ateca which I am loving so much more than the formentor
Still like it?
@@MrArjanOskam I still like it (and its quirks) however redundancy looms and lease ends in Sept 24 so It will be going back.
This is the gentleman's Golf R in my opinion.
Having come from a worked 8V Audi S3 with the same EA888, this with a few mods would be an absolute weapon and a fantastic daily driver.
what mods would you do to it?
@@jspanga Intake, downpipe and tune. You'll make over 300hp at all 4 wheels then and close to 500nm of torque at the wheels.
Hi from the uk, I have had the hyundai i30n and now I have one of these, I can promise that the ride quality is like night and day different, uk roads are terrible too and in the i30n even in comfort it was not a good daily, where as with this you can make it even comfortable than in comfor mode if you sort it in individual mode, I would say cupra mode is drivable in the uk.
So is the car only sold in the UK
@@qkweenkash9063 it is sold in Europe, and recently Australia, not sure about anywhere else, probably will be sold everywhere that seat sell cars.
Hi! Can you please give me an advice? It would help a lot. I am tied between the 2 cars you mentioned, as a daily, can't fully decide. I prefer the looks and character of the i30N facelift (fastback actually), but is it truly that uncomfortable on bad roads? My country has a lot of nasty pavement, so my major concern is not having to deal with bent wheels all the time, though I can sacrifice a bit of damping. Did you own the prefacelift i30N? Heard the fastback FL has better damping. I would really love to hear what you have to say and would help me a lot. Cheers!
@@Neffestuss hi mate, yes I had a pfl but I had a fastback and that is where they had softened the dampers a little, not sure if they did It even more on the face-lift, best way to describe the hardness is that in full N mode, no one in the uk could use it, in individual mode with everything on maximum except the dampers on comfort it is driveable BUT your passengers will complain more, cause you won't tell as much in the drivers seat cause it is an exciting car and you do get more pleasure driving it, also within 1 week of ownership I had hit a pot hole and blown the tire, pirrelli p zeros over here cost £189 at the time, but it is one of the most fun cars I have ever driven, test drive both cars I would say if you can, if you want excitement and can deal with a more harsh ride, I would pick the N, but you also haven't consider the amount of black plastics in the interior, after a year or so they got on my nerves and I wanted a bit more luxury, but that's just me.
@@gavinlewis3049 Thank you very much for taking your time to answer. I have a better understanding now of what differentiates the 2 vehicles. Unfortunately, I cannot find anywhere to test drive the i30N in my country as it is highly unpopular, only if I travel abroad, but I will take in consideration everything you said. Many thanks! Farewell!
Great review/introduction. Looking forward to the full follow up.
Your enthusiasm wore off on me, and I was looking up prices on the side.
Genuinely stoked that these are coming out; a fun, sporty avenue for great platforms.
Initially when I saw Cupra was coming, I couldn’t see a point - but lately, watching Skoda’s interesting price incline, with option packages sprinkled about like boulders on a mountain I lost interest in climbing, I have to say: I am all for this Cupra business.
If they brought the 5cyl over I’d buy it tomorrow 😍 love the cooper styling and the car colours
Try Copper not Cooper 🥴
there is the VZ5 cupra?
Great review. I ordered my VZx two days ago, before watching this. Now, more than ever, I can't wait to get my hands on it.
How do you like it?
@@MrArjanOskam Objectively …. It’s a lot of fun. Great performance and very practical. I’m approaching retirement age, so don’t have any kids. So not sure how roomy it would be for a family regards luggage space. But the back seat is plenty roomy.
The only gripe I have about it is that the entertainment system can play up a bit. It’s more reliable now than when I bought it 18 months ago. But it’s not the best compared to the AUdi I had before it.
Also, in Sydney, it’s serviced by Alto. I swear I know more about the car than they do. But again, they get better with time. It’s a new car and a new marque after all.
Anyway, it’s very much a drivers’ car. Lots of fun at the lights and through twisties. But you flick the button on the steering wheel and it reverts back to a normal everyday ride.
@@Strangybow Thanks for sharing your experience! I might buy one Out of business lease at my work if the price is right
Amazing car I’d buy over the new Golf R - can’t wait until Cupar range here as offers more flair for your $ than we’ve seen locally for sometime from Europe 🤘
Cupra*
The vz5 is unbelievable! It's such a shame it's not coming to Australia.
Good work on first impression/drive video, Tom!
I didn't realise this was called 'coupe-ra', but this is a damn cool mid-size SUV. Also, that matte blue colour makes it look like a CAD drawing.
Petrol blue matte. Pretty cool.
I saw it today in Melbourne. Looks amazing. It attracted my attention immediately.
Very nice work Tom, the video shown the front vent and it looks similar to the Golf 8 vents. Thus this Formentor is stretched version of Golf using the MQB platform. It is not derived from a Tiguan platform. There are real buttons, no BS touch buttons from the Golf. About the passive rear steering or is it the effect from the wet multi clutch rear diff which spin the wheel faster or pulls the car in from the outside wheels. The car looks nice and drive well in the wet. Body roll? designed intend for better wet traction, otherwise the back will aquaplane across to uncontrolled over steer but, stiffer suspension is deadly fun on the dry.
Bit of confusion here: there’s no difference between ‘derived from Golf’ and ‘derived from Tiguan’; all share the MQB platform, and MQB Evo is just a small development of MQB. Air vents and interior controls don’t come into the chassis. As for the passive rear steer; it’s suspension, as it occurs off throttle and this car doesn’t have a multi-clutch rear diff regardless.
Too bad SEAT abandoned Aus so many years ago... they improved dramatically after that... glad to see them return with a competitive car like this and a cooler name
CUPRA are owned by VW now I'm pretty sure, probably why this car is as nice as it is
@@redstars837 Cupra is Seat, they are built in Barcelona just as the Seat cars are, to a higher specification of course.
Gday Tom, nice intro to Cupra. You may cover this off in the full review, however how did you find road noise on track in the cabin? I listened to this video with headphones and the track section sounded like there’s a lot of road noise entering the cabin.
Hey Tom, thanks for the great review. Do you have an idea if the 1.5 MHEV engine in the new A3 is going to make its way to South Africa. At the moment we've got the car with the 1.4 still. Do you think it's a good idea to buy an A3 with than engine? Is it smooth and reliable enough in your opinion?
If anything the 1.4 is actually slightly smoother than the 1.5 TSI Evo. I wouldn’t bother waiting
@@chasingcars Thank you Tom, appreciate it!
I thought the South African market received 1.5 TSI earlier than Australia.
@@acde9355 No, spoke with the local Audi and there have no clue when the change will happen. I don't know if they're just misinformed but the latest CARmag and configurator backs their take up.
the 1.5 has kangarooing issues + the ppf sounds like something that could be a headache down the track. On the flipside the 1.4 is bulletproof... it's been around for a decade with no major flaws
Great review, these look nice. From what I gather the only thing special about the launch vehicles is the inclusion of the brembo brakes on the Formentor and Leon and the akrapovich exhaust on the Ateca. You're getting these but you're paying an extra ~$3k so only marginally cheaper than if you added them as an option. I think I'd just stick to the normal models
You're also getting more expensive paint depending on your car and paint choice. That matte paint is going to cost over 2k
Thanks for the review Tom. I know you have touched on this previously and it has considerably less grubt than the VZx however in your opinion, how does the 140kw V stack up against our existing competitors in CX-5, Tiguan, Sportage and Rav4?
In case Tom doesn't get back to you, sometimes they don't revisit the comments section, here are my thoughts. If you need extra boot space, or more boot space than the Formentor (420 litres on awd versions, less on PHEV version) , then all those you mentioned may suit your needs better. RAV4 hybrid will definitely have the fuel consumption advantage (and most likely resale) if that is a key factor for you. The reviews I have read indicate the Cupra is easily the more entertaining drive and will be more unique in Australia. Whatcar UK gave the Formentor Best Coupé SUV 2022.
Another thing to consider is the delivery timeframe, RAV4 hybrid is meant to be over 12 months, Tiguan and Sportage can have large delays (depending on the version), whilst Mazda told me a month or so ago that there was no issue with CX-5 supply on any version, although this may have changed since.
I ruled out the RAV4 as I couldn't wait 12+ months, the Tiguan because of higher cost and availability, the Sportage on availability of upspec models (also think diesel is the best sportage engine) and the driving experience, leaving the CX-5, nice car but didn't excite me. I don't need the extra boot space and wanted more performance (if going petrol) and excitement so have a deposit down on the Launch Edition VZx, delivery due in August. I understand orders on the normal Cupras are due to start shortly if not already. Goodluck.
Edit: I should have mentioned that I rang Cupra who advised delivery of the normal Cupras may also be subject to some delays, worst case December, although they hoped otherwise. Another factor why I decide to go VZx Launch Edition.
Hey Tom, did they mention anything around how they intend to support their customers as all the servicing, recalls etc would be handled by partners who might likely prioritise their other brands. Also any info on when we could see some in the flesh?
Cupra will have a service centre here in Sydney and dedicated stores in each capital city. In more remote areas expect Volkswagen service. Wasn’t a major issue when Skoda launched as I recall.
Hi Tom.
What do you rate the comfort of the seats and is the overall drive a comfortable one. As you said there were no bumps on the track but first impressions?
My good mate in Germany Tom test drove the equivalent VZX some 6 or so months ago. He loved it! He wanted it! He’s married with 2 kids. He’s a family man. Audi Q3 won out!😭 His boss got this though!😈🤣…. Come to think of it, my 2017 Skoda Superb Sportline wagon is now 5 years old….🤤😍
Not that unusual. A colleague of mine previous bought a car 25% more expensive than his manager who made 3 times as much as he did.
How is formentor V 140KW? lots of ppl said shock absorber is too hard, how is your experience in both v and vzx?
Need to replace an S3 with something a bit higher but without too much of a performance drop. I think I may have to investigate this further if they will have stock.
Enthusiastic initial drive there Tom. My questions are: as you have driven the 140kw V model, what is it like to drive compared to this top end model and does it have the same adaptive dampers and Haldex 4WD system?
Same dampers, same AWD system, but noticeably less power (that said - probably not as much of a problem when you’re not on a huge, fast circuit like SMSP). It has small wheels, so ride quality should be great on the V.
@@chasingcars cheers- thanks for that .
@@chasingcars get the base model and get it tuned ;)
The 180kw FWD model seems a bit weird.
I would like to know a little about the vz 140 kil formentor
How was the drive and performance
Hey Guys ,
I think you’re by far the best car channel in Aus.
When do you guys will start filming in 4k??
Nearly all our videos are already in 4K.
did you drive the v and if so what are your impresion
What are the differences between the vzx and the v?
How’s the beats sound system in comparison harman kardon? Which sounds better?
Is it roughly the same size as a Tiguan R. I have a family and back seat room for the teenagers is important :). Seems good value against the Tiguan R.
Roughly yes - it’s 5cm shorter and has about 20% less boot space though
If I was a customer (like you said in minute 6:55) I would not like to see my car being tracked before I get it..
Looks great, does anyone know if a set of golf clubs in a cart bag fit in the boot without dropping rear seats?
Availability of parts in Western Australia?
I think it is not fair to compare it with a Tiguan. The Formentor looks better but the Tiguan is quite bigger and a more practical car than the Formentor. If you need to fit 4 adults for a long trip and need luggage space Tiguan is certainly a better option than the Formentor.
Hey Tom - may be a silly question but is it too small in the boot for a mid sized Dog to be comfortable on a long run and (separately to he dog of course) will it fit a full set of golf clubs and buggy etc. My only concern is its a bit small in the boot. I am one of the 50 that has had an order accepted - petrol blue Matte VZX - just a bit worried now - is it going to be big enough. I cant find any actual mm dimensions of the boot - beyond the 420ltr measurement
Next time I’ll see one I’ll have a think about this - but I reckon you’ll get away with it. What breed?
@@chasingcars Cheers - Border Collie/Poodle cross - about size of an average golden retriever/labrador
Hey, quick question as you mentioned the ski hatch, how does one take these cars with 19"-20" wheels to the Alps where snow chains are mandated? I'm in VIC where apparently you have to have them on.
Yeah, see these with some snow tyres would be pretty mean. As for chains, a quick search revealed a couple of Australian options for 20” wheels.
Tom does the rear seat recline? Thanks
Wish they brought the leon sportswagon over
Same! Maybe in the future if the first drop of models goes well.
How does the cabin size compare to the Tiguan? Head room etc
I have a Tiguan R on order and tossing up between that and the Formentor
No headroom issues for me at 6’
Both pretty awesome cars, while they are in warranty anyway!
The Formentor is more of a Coupe style crossover, so it will be noticeably smaller, but mostly so in the cargo area. Passenger space should be similar.
Hi Tom. By the sounds of it this is better than the tiguan R? You seem to be really excited by this car.
Really liked it. On track, it’s so playful. Let’s see how it goes on road, where it will do 99% of its driving.
@@chasingcars I know it will be slower, but any chance of throwing a Kodiaq RS in that comparison?
How about compare with Tiguan R?
And more information on the Formentor V please
Let's just pause and appreciate that name again!
Exotic
I had a macan gts which I just sold.
My question is should I get the 2022 macan GTS or is there something better out there now.
If you’re shopping in that space, consider the updated Macan S (my pick) or GTS (if you want stiff suspension). Also consider the F-Pace SVR, which is actually a major performance bargain. And don’t forget X3 M40i and SQ5 TDI, which are both well rounded.
Does the launch edition come with a sunroof?
Customer might not appreciate his Formentor used as a test car! 😂😂
Lots of road noise?
Sounds brilliant, I'd have one but NOT in undercoat thanks.
The Motorsport Park outside Sydney!! Don’t tell those that live in Penrith 🙂 Whose a North Shore boy then? 😎🥸
When you’re closer to Springwood than the CBD…
It is not Macan. It is Formentador!
Best looking suv we could buy in NZ, Kona N is way too much and not even 4drive !!
Kona N is pricey, but well engineered for its purpose.
This car looks great in my favourite matte colour however, if it got scratched then in most cases, it would require an expensive full respray which is the reason, I did not buy one. You would think in this day and age that there would be greater protection in the painting process to either provide a scratch resistant surface or at least make it as easy to remove a scratch as it is on a standard gloss car finish. Great video, well done
I hope Cupra stays here and are well supported. Leon cupra over golf r anyday
I really wish if Leon put the engine longitudinally ...
No space in MQB unfortunately.
Makes no sense the PHEV is 2WD. Does limit the audience a bit.
Whats the price of the top range?
Formentor V: $50,690 ($54,990 driveaway)
Formentor VZ: $58,490 ($54,990 driveaway)
Formentor VZe plug-in hybrid: $60,990 (driveaway pricing differs by state and territory)
Formentor VZx: $61,490 ($66,490 driveaway)
Formentor Launch Edition: $69,990 driveaway
What does the launch edition add?
@@chasingcars Are there any further details on the launch edition?
how can you not give the passenger seat front same as the driver seat, this is crap. how much will you save just by cutting down this feature ? and they are charging 67k, r u serious ? check out the features on kia sportage gt-line diesel.
Is this thing going to blow a water pump every 20,000ks? 🤔
More like every 50k. And yes probably.
Rich Man’s Tiguan
USELESS INFO BOOT SPACE
TIGUAN 520L / 615L seats slid forward
FORMENTOR 420L / 450 2WD
VISUAL DECEPTION masterclass with my wonky eyes and dodgy internet looks as LONG as a ALLSPACE
but its smaller ( L x H ) than a TUGAN
Why do reviews so often concentrate on the "full fat" versions? Because they're sexy? In reality, most people will - I assume - be buying the basic model. so why not concentrate on that?
Its obvious the more powerful versions will be more fun. Question is (for most of us), what's the basic one like?
Volkswagen Group repeatedly tells us the majority of the sales in Australia are for high spec versions. That said, we do review base and mid spec cars regularly as well.
Thanks for the quick reply. However, all the reviews on the Cupra focus on the top-spec models. I'm trying to decide between a basic (V2) Cupra Formentor and an R-Line VW Tiguan. But the only comparison I can find here in TH-cam is between the high-powered versions!
Could you tell me which one you'd go for if you had two young children to drive around for half the week, but wanted a reasonably "fun" car for the rest of the time?
This car is not better than a mk2 tiguan.
I had a mk2 tiguan Rline that I traded in for an M2 comp. We then needed a bigger car for my misses and bought her a cupra formentor v2 1.5.
I have no problem with the cars power, looks or handling, but it is not on par with a tiguan. Its build quality is horrendous, the rear camera stopped working 2 weeks after getting the car. Itsos is a joke.
Any driver assistance you don't like you have to switch it off every time you get in the car. The heating controls are awkward.
After having so many vw we thought this would be a safe bet. It wasn't. Will never buy another cupra again.
BTW Australia top of the range stock is sold out
hahahaha
"curry hooks"?
Beautiful design love the power
But honestly it's not a 70G car drive away
Inflation is starting to rear it's ugly head
290hp I guess 😮
No 5 cylinder, no deal.
Chasing Cars : having a boot space of 440 litres kinda doesn't make this a mid sized SUV but rather a SMALL SIZED SUV. Get your facts straightened mates and stop fanboying for the germans.
No, boot space doesn’t determine what category a vehicle is in. Cupra’s also Spanish, not German…
@@chasingcars boot space is one of the 3 main factors that determine the size rank of any car (boot space, length of the vehicle and inner legroom space). And no, Seat Cupra is spanish but is owned by VW and has been owned by VW for 20 years now. And they also use every VW platform and every VW engine.
So what's up, illiterate youngsters ?
Thanks for the input, but we’ll continue to accurately describe the vehicle as a midsize SUV from a Spanish manufacturer. Cheers.
@@chasingcars buttercup, this reaction of yours is an outstanding child like inability to acknowledge domination by intellect and knowledge :). Nice buttercup, nice :).
So wait, you pinched some poor kiwi's car and then thrashed it around the track? 🤔
Yes
Wow, wouldn’t be happy if it was my ‘new’ car.
tight jeans
Poor? What if you can’t afford this car? 😂
Such a beautiful car ruined by that horrendous out of place screen. Bring back the effing buttons.
Looks significantly smaller than a Tiguan🤔🤔🤔
Only 5cm shorter.
Think this thing is just so much better looking so it's proportions look more compact.
Boot space is significantly smaller than the Tiguan but other than that interior space seems good. Maybe the Formentor is a more comparable size to the XC40?
Keep in mind Tiguan’s claim of 615L boot space is only when the back seats are pushed as far forward as they’ll go. Still a bit boot, but 615L is misleading
@@chasingcars very true but even so, this boot is smaller than cx5 which is technically in the same class and already dwarfed by the likes of Rav 4 and Tiguan boots
Always nice to see new competitions in the market! Good for consumers!
True! As long as it’s backed by solid after sales as well
Awesome review, sounds like a great car.... probably helps that is actually pretty light at just under 1600kg.. not bad at all!
The more reviews of this car I see, the more I'm liking it, and thinking to go with the V, rather than waiting the 8mths or so for a Karoq 140 sports line 🤔
V is an interesting option. Should be the comfiest as it wears relatively chunky tyres.
How much is the entry level V 140kw model in Australia!!!
About $55k drive away
Macan is a Money burner… good SUV but, reliability… specially oil leaks (2017 GTS - 95B). Mine with 74k km already twice!!! First @ 40k km (repaired at Porsche) and now the second @ 74k km.
Cupra leon,ateca and formentor is the best
Will this car also be available in Africa, we need more hybrid cars fuel prices are killing us down here
Exciting first look, thanks Tom! What's your impression of it vs the BMW X1 or the Mercedes GLA?
looked at the 201bhp 1.4 engine and it seemed to struggle on just the engine when the battery is empty. especially uphill, Is the 245bhp any better
God Bless the Cupra Formenta 🙏🚗
God Bless Chasing Cars 🙏🚗
God Bless Elon Musk 🙏🛸
God had nothing to do with it. Science and engineering did.
It’s an overpriced hatchback.
When looking to change my car late last year I test drove a couple of Porsche Macans, I then had a test drive in a Formentor VZ2 310, the latter now sits on my drive.
When can we expect the prices to be released?
I would be more interested in the plug in hybrid.
Prices are out - see the pinned comment. As mentioned in the video we won’t see the PHEV in Australia until Q4 2022
Nice video, keep up the great content, my #1 car channel in OZ. Keen to see how the VZx stacks up against the Tiguan R, especially considering the price difference. Know the R has the new trick diff, but in every day driving would it make that much of a difference?
Will need to do a comparo to find out, but my sense was that the Formentor was so good on track - steering, suspension, chassis tuning, AWD system - I wasn’t missing the Tiguan R
I use with hybrid
This car is NICE! However, only the VZ5 would have me reaching for my wallet. Shame we are being discriminated against for driving on the wrong side of the road compared to the Spaniards! Make a RH drive VZ5 Cupra por favor!
Footage still in LOG... oops! Happens to everyone :P
It actually does have a LUT on it, but perhaps a bit mild
@@chasingcars Rough aussie sun maybe!
Tom, loaded question but here it is. Is this a poor man's Macan? Love the GTS but daily needs mean that's a lot of money for Sydney driving and have a weekend fun car in a 911. Would appreciate your views. Thanks
I’d like to consider one of these but petrified about the shockingly poor VW after sales service and court proven propensity to through customers under the bus. How will cupra guarantee they will support their customers? When I went out to view a cuppa in Perth, the address provided by their website was a Mercedes Benz dealership. Not a Cupra in sight and not a good first impression cupra. If you’re not ready to sell a car, don’t advertise them. I’d steer clear of this brand for a few years until they prove themselves unless they give an offer too good to resist (unlikely in this market). Note no tow bar available until next version. Conveniently left off this review. You’ve been warned.
Hope the Cupra brand has a better stint on our shores than it's Spanish hombre Seat. The styling, and Tom's delight at driving this new Ninó on the block a winner for me!
Would still have concerns about re-sale, but I personally wouldn't mind if it's as much fun as it seems. @chasingcars New Tiguan R(the one with more than stickers) vs this would make a good spectacle.
looked at the 201bhp 1.4 engine and it seemed to struggle on just the engine when the battery is empty. especially uphill, Is the 245bhp any better
looked at the 201bhp 1.4 engine and it seemed to struggle on just the engine when the battery is empty. especially uphill, Is the 245bhp any better
How does this compare to the BMW m135i performance wise? Am considering whether to sell the m135i into one of these
Coin trays? Do they still carry around coins in Spain? No one uses cash anymore in Australia 🤷♂️
I heard the infotainment system is the same terrible one that's on the new Golf......
Hi Tom, thank you for changing the way you introduce each ep, especially this one. The way you present has improved dramatically, unfortunately I stopped watching this channel for that reason but you’ve done a fantastic job in the video and present very well. 🤭🤗😬
I wish Audi would make an SQ3 Sportback with this engine and setup