Cupra VZ e-Hybrid
New PHEV generation with 1.5 TSI EA211 evo and improved electric motor. Larger battery (approx. 20 kWh) for greater range. Two outputs: 150 kW (204 PS) and 200 kW (272 PS) system.
Strongest PHEV Formentor
272 hp system with convincing driving dynamics despite SUV weight. Very quiet in electric mode, strong brakes. The sportiest Formentor without the 2.0 TSI VZ.
Engine Weaknesses 3
When parked, the high-voltage system drains the 12V battery. Owners report completely dead vehicles with no prior warning. Overnight standing can be sufficient. Goodwill cases take weeks to resolve.
Symptoms: Vehicle can't be unlocked (emergency key only), display black, no start, complete electronics failure
The new 19.7 kWh net battery is more expensive than its predecessor DGEA. Capacity loss is explicitly not covered by warranty according to the owner's manual. Out-of-warranty damage is borne entirely by the owner.
Symptoms: Reduced electric range below 80 km (real-world), reduced charging power
Frozen displays, driver assistance system failures, and keyless entry errors are widespread on Cupra PHEV models. The manufacturer responds slowly with updates and not all issues are resolved.
Symptoms: Display freezes, cameras drop out, lane-keep assist fails to detect lines, key not recognised
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.
