Volkswagen couldn’t get Audi Sport’s blessing to use their 2.5-liter turbo-five in the new Golf R, but Cupra did, and they have come up with their most powerful model yet: the Formentor VZ5. Unveiled as part of an internal event that was streamed live over the web, it has 390 PS and 480 Nm of torque available on tap, 10 PS less than the RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback. The 0-100 km/h acceleration takes 4.2 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than its German cousins, and top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

The thrust is channeled to the 4Drive all-wheel drive system via a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the Formentor VZ5 rides 10 mm lower than the 310 PS Formentor VZ. It boasts Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) with 15 levels of damping adjustment, and the stopping power is supplied by the Akebono brakes, with six-piston calipers at the front. The sporty SUV rides on 20-inch wheels that are exclusive to this model.

 

Speaking of bespoke features, these include the sculpted bonnet, matte black grille surround, bigger lower air intake in the front bumper, different carbon fiber rear diffuser and diagonally stacked tailpipes with copper trim. The ‘Cupra’ lettering in the middle of the tailgate has a black chrome look and there is also a ‘VZ5’ logo next to it. The Taiga Grey exterior paint finish is exclusive to the Formentor VZ5, but customers can also get it in Midnight Black, Magnetic Tech Matt and Petrol Blue Matt.

The bucket seats, available in blue or black leather, are part of the makeover, and the cockpit is adorned with brushed dark aluminum and copper accents. Customers can also order the Dinamica Black exclusive graphics and brown Nappa leather seats. The 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, customizable digital cockpit and others are included.

 

A host of driver assistance systems are on deck, such as the Travel Assist, Side and Exit Assist, Emergency Assist and Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control. Named after cape Formentor on the Spanish island of Mallorca, the VZ5, which stands for ‘veloz’ – meaning ‘quick’ or ‘fast’ in Spanish (5 is for the number of cylinders) is offered in a limited production run of 7,000 units. The market launch is scheduled for the last quarter of the year, and pricing details will be announced in due course.