CUPRA has expanded its electrified range with the introduction of the Formentor e-Hybrid plug-in SUV. Available with two different power outputs, the Formentor will join the veritable array of mid-sized plug-in SUVs available, but what does it bring to the party?

Sharp styling and CUPRA’s more performance-orientated brand values are two of the most immediate things that can be attributed to the Formentor. Whilst the powertrains on offer aren’t anything we’ve not tried and tested before – in the SEAT Leon e-Hybrid – they do offer notable advantages compared to some of the Formentor’s rivals.

Powertrains in detail

Both are powered by VW Group’s trusty do-it-all 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with 147bhp and a 114bhp electric motor and a decent 243lb-ft of torque to boot. There are two total system power outputs available: either 201bhp or 242bhp. The only difference between the two is in the mapping of the electric and petrol motors.

We’ve driven the lower-powered version in the aforementioned SEAT Leon and were very impressed with the way the system switches between electric and hybrid driving modes in an instant and seamless way, making for a very quiet and slick driving experience which is superior to that of many other hybrids. We’ve no reason to suspect that the Formentor is any different.

A 12.8kWh battery provides the power for the electric motor and offers a maximum WLTP range of 37 miles. Whilst this is wildly optimistic, in practice the powertrain definitely has a usable near 30 mile real-world range in mixed driving. From zero to 100 per cent, it takes 3.5 hours using a 3.6kW AC charger. Combined fuel consumption is officially 235.4mpg and CO2 emissions stand at just 27g/km, making it a company car friendly option.

Trim levels

The entry-level CUPRA Formentor V1 isn’t lacking in standard equipment, getting LED headlights, taillights and dynamic indicators as well as electric folding mirrors, three-zone climate control and keyless entry and go.

Standard technology comes in the form of a 12 inch infotainment screen with navigation and voice control. Full Link connectivity caters for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supplemented by four USB-C ports and wireless smartphone charging. Across all variants is a 10.25 inch configurable digital cockpit.

Upping the spec to the V2 version and 19 inch wheels (vs. the standard 18 inch alloys), Nappa leather bucket seats, a heated steering wheel and front parking sensors plus rear view camera make the Formentor that little bit more stylish and convenient.

Optional CUPRA Connect adds emergency and breakdown calling, service scheduling as well as remote access to vehicle data, parking location and alerts for speed, anti-theft and local area.

Price and availability

The CUPRA Formentor V1 with the 201bhp powertrain starts at £35,715, whilst the V2 begins at £37,545. Order books are open now and according to CUPRA, stock is already in the UK ready to hit the road.