Talk about a transformation. For getting on for three decades, the Cupra badge used to denote sporty versions of humdrum Seat models. But in 2018 Cupra became a brand in its own right.
Its first car was, again, a sporty version of a Seat Ateca, but in 2020, along came the Formentor, the Cupra brand’s first standalone model. The ‘coupé-crossover’ (as it was officially termed) looked great, and it absolutely flew out of the showrooms, which means there is loads of choice out there if you’re a caravanner who is looking at the various used cars for towing a caravan.
What’s a used Cupra Formentor like inside?
The Cupra Formentor is an SUV, but you might not think that from the driver’s seat because you tend to sit a bit closer to the road than in some rivals. That fits with the sporty ethos of the Cupra brand.
There’s plenty of space for the two people up front, but if you’re thinking of buying this used car, beware that the front seats have been tailored for those of slightly more slender proportions.
You’d be forgiven for thinking those in the rear might feel hard done by, but that’s not the case. There’s actually good headroom and generous legroom for three adult occupants, as you could be looking for if you were after one of the best SUVs for towing a caravan, although the central tunnel means those back there will be drawing straws to decide who is consigned to the middle.
Boot space varies according to which version of the Formentor you choose. Two-wheel-drive petrol models have 450 litres. The four-wheel-drive versions have 420 litres, and
the plug-in hybrid has 345 litres. You need to choose carefully, but as we’ll see, the PHEV has other benefits.
The digital driver’s display is bright and clear, and can be configured to show the information you deem important. However, as with most VW Group models of this era, the central infotainment system is fiddly to use. For instance, the temperature controls are operated by touchpads below the screen, which are plain awkward to operate on the move.
Still, there’s plenty of standard equipment, everything feels well put together, and it looks pretty funky. You can also add various towing gadgets to further improve your experience on the road.
How does a used Cupra Formentor drive?
There are a few powertrains available, starting with a 148bhp 1.5-litre turbo petrol and topping out with a 307bhp 2.0-litre turbo petrol. There’s also a plug-in hybrid model that pairs a 148bhp 1.4 turbo petrol engine (this was later changed to a 1.5) with a battery and 113bhp electric motor. Together, these produce 201bhp, and make light work of towing. The electric motor provides instant torque to help you get off the mark, although you need to be careful to avoid wheelspin.
The PHEV’s weight of 1704kg helps when towing, and means that the Formentor stays straight and true in any situation. It’s good fun to drive when you’re not hitched up, too, with sharp steering, nimble responses and punchy acceleration.
The funky looks impact the rearward view, however, so choosing an example with a parking camera would be wise.
What will a used Cupra Formentor tow?
- Kerb weight: 1704kg
- Towing limit: 1700kg
- Nose weight limit: 80kg
- 85% match: 1448kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 24
- Annual VED: £195*
- Average economy: 188.5mpg (e-Hybrid)
- Interim/full service: £171
(Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262)
Models with a list price of more than £40,000 when new are liable for annual VED of £625 for the first five years of the car’s life.
How much is a used Cupra Formentor?
- High: Price :£39,995, Model: 1.5 e-Hybrid VZ, Year: 2024, Miles: 5500
- Sweet spot: Price: £25,000, Model: 1.4 e-Hybrid VZ2, Year: 2022, Miles: 11,500 miles
- Low: Price: £11,995, Model: 1.5 TSI V1, Year: 2021, Miles: 135,000 miles
Trouble spots
Cupra recalled 2309 Formentors with engine design cover issues. Some 2347 examples were recalled due to high-voltage systems with insufficient extinguishing sand in the fuse. Wheel supports were found to be defective on 379 cars, and 10,145 cars had airbag issues. Find out more at www.check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk
Verdict
The Formentor PHEV does make for a good tow car, although you always need to be aware that it’s putting a lot of effort through the front wheels, so managing wheelspin can be tricky in the wet. Apart from that, it’s practical, well kitted and looks stunning. Cupra got it right first time around.
Alternatives to consider
Used Audi Q3 (2018-2025)
The Audi might not have the flair of the Formentor, but it’s a solid towing machine. It has loads of space for five adults and all their stuff, and if you want style, there’s a Sportback version which loses a tiny bit of cabin space. It comes with a range of petrol and diesel engines, most of which are perfectly capable of towing, although obviously the petrols are thirstier.
Used Jaguar E-Pace (2017-2024)
If you’re after an SUV that looks pretty funky, then the Jaguar E-Pace makes a fine alternative to the Formentor. It might look great but it isn’t a match for the Cupra as a towing machine, because it can get bossed around by a heavy(ish) tourer. It isn’t that roomy either, particularly in the rear. However, the interior still looks modern and cool, and is filled with useful kit.
Used VW Tiguan Mk2 (2017-2024)
The second-gen Tiguan is a tow car par excellence. Make sure the car you’re looking at has the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine up front, and you’ll be getting a towing machine that is utterly unfazed by a heavy van on even a blustery day. The Tiguan is also roomy for five adults (plus their stuff), and comes with plenty of standard kit to keep you entertained. Shame the infotainment system is decidedly glitchy and awkward though.
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