Cupra VZ
EA888 evo top variant with 228–245 kW and up to 400 Nm. Available exclusively with DSG and all-wheel drive. Evolution of the DNUE with improved chain tensioner and optimised oil supply for higher sustained loads. Drift mode enabled by two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches on the rear axle — active torque vectoring.
Strongest Formentor — just short of VZ5 emotion
The Formentor VZ Facelift with 333 PS delivers on performance, AWD and precise steering. What it lacks: the organic sound of the five-cylinder. For those who can't get hold of one of the 7,000 VZ5 units, this is the next-best compromise — dynamically barely a step behind.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The highest EA888 evo power output brings significantly increased thermal load. The intercooler and cooling system work close to their limits. With frequent track use or in hot climates, the risk of overheating rises sharply.
Symptoms: Power drop after several spirited driving stints (heat protection limiting); coolant temperature in the upper range; warning messages during track use
The DNFB with 310–333 PS also inherits the EA888 evo oil pump's structural weakness. At the highest power output, the demand for oil pressure is even more critical — cam phasers and bearings require more pressure.
Symptoms: Rattling and clattering at idle; P0011/P0021 fault codes; rough running when cold
The DQ500 dual-clutch gearbox is pushed to its limits in the 333 under extreme use. Shudder on pull-away and increased clutch wear have been reported on the VZ333 Facelift. Short oil change intervals are mandatory.
Symptoms: Shudder on pull-away from rest; uneven power transfer in 1st/2nd gear; DSG jerk especially when cold
Cases have been documented on the VZ333 where the engine would not start after software updates. The problem affects the engine management ECU and requires a dealer visit.
Symptoms: Engine won't start after OTA update; repeated start attempts required; fault messages on the instrument cluster
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The 2024 Formentor facelift launched with serious software problems. Cupra withdrew software version 1899 after a short time. Version 1900 reportedly also contains numerous bugs. Dealers replace control units as a stopgap measure.
All driver assistance systems (Front Assist, lane keeping, blind spot, Travel Assist) sporadically drop out completely while driving. Restarting does not always help. The cause is often the steering wheel control unit or dirty radar sensors. Workshop visits frequently bring only temporary improvement.
The sealing issue on the boot and panoramic roof of the Formentor was not fundamentally resolved in the facelift. New models still show isolated water ingress identical to the pre-facelift generation.
As with the Leon Facelift, the capacitive steering wheel buttons frequently fail to respond. The touch sensors do not reliably detect input. Steering wheel replacement has been performed as a fix but the problem can return after a short time.
The well-known above-average Brembo disc wear carries over to the facelift. VZ buyers should expect shorter replacement intervals and higher brake costs compared to standard engine variants.
