Four years ago, the Formentor VZ5 was added to the Cupra range, but the hot crossover was a forbidden fruit for us. Now, as part of a limited production run of 4,000 units, the special model will be available in right-hand drive. Using a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the Formentor VZ5 produces 375bhp and 354lb-ft (480Nm) of torque, distributing its output to all four wheels via a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission.

While this is 20bhp short of the Audis from which it borrows its powertrain, the VZ5 does feature the same torque splitter as used on the Audi S3 and RS3. This allows for precise torque vectoring and lateral power distribution to aid agility during high speed cornering. The car reaches 62mph from rest in 4.2 seconds, with its top speed limited to 155mph.

Visually, the range-topper is distinguished by its revised front bumper, widened wheel arches, unique rear diffuser, and its diagonally stacked quad-exit exhaust tips. These, like the 20” alloy wheels, feature the brand’s signature copper detailing. Two-piece bucket seats come as standard, alongside a 10.25” instrument cluster, and a 12.9” touchscreen infotainment display.

UK pricing and specifications are yet to be confirmed, but we expect the VZ5 to command a reasonable premium over the £49,535 required for a VZ3 model at present. The car also fills the space in the performance SUV market vacated by the Audi RS Q3 which went off sale in the UK in late 2023. Its closest rival will be the 414bhp Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S which has the edge in straight line performance, but the extra cylinder under the VZ5’s bonnet will make it the best sounding car in its class.

All 4,000 units will be built at Cupra’s Barcelona factory from the start of next year. The return to five-cylinder power for the Formentor is a pleasant surprise, and it shows that there’s life left in the 2.5-litre engine. The news comes as Volkswagen is preparing to bring a Golf R to market with the same powertrain, no doubt in similarly limited numbers as the new Formentor. Deliveries will begin in Spring 2026, and with no word on UK market allocation, you’ll need to act fast to secure the only five-cylinder Cupra destined for our roads.