Cupra Formentor Estate 1.5 eHybrid 204 V2 DSG Review: Electrified Elegance with a Sporty Twist
If you're looking for a stylish, versatile, and electrified crossover that doesn’t skimp on performance or practicality, allow us at Pendle Lease to introduce the Cupra Formentor Estate 1.5 eHybrid 204 V2 DSG. This plug-in hybrid SUV estate (yes, it’s got quite the title) manages to merge hot hatch DNA with eco-conscious engineering — and it might just be the sweet spot for both business lease and personal lease customers.ra Formentor Estate 1.5 eHybrid 204 V2 DSG Review: Electrified Elegance with a Sporty Twist
Let’s dive into what makes the Formentor a standout contender in the vehicle leasing space.
First Impressions: Bold, Sporty, and Very Cupra
Cupra has successfully evolved from being the performance wing of SEAT into a brand with its own identity — and the Formentor is arguably its most iconic model. Visually, the 1.5 eHybrid V2 looks every bit the premium crossover it aspires to be. The sharp LED headlights, swooping roofline, chunky alloy wheels, and signature copper accents all shout performance pedigree.
This isn’t your average estate car — it’s got the road presence of a sporty SUV and the silhouette of something far more athletic.
Quirky Thought: If a Lamborghini Urus and a Golf GTI had a polite, eco-conscious baby, it might look like the Formentor.
Under the Bonnet: Hybrid Power Without the Range Anxiety
The 1.5 eHybrid setup combines a 1.4-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver a combined 204PS (about 201 horsepower) to the front wheels via a smooth 6-speed DSG automatic gearbox. It’s not the fire-breathing Formentor VZ with AWD and more horsepower, but it’s no slouch either.
You’ll get around 34 miles of electric-only range, making it ideal for short commutes, errands, or school runs without burning a drop of petrol. That’s great news for your wallet — and even better for your Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) if you’re eyeing this for a business lease.
Top Tip: Plug in every night and treat this like a mini-EV. You’ll rarely see the petrol engine fire up unless you're going long distance.
Performance and Driving Feel
Cupra prides itself on delivering engaging driving dynamics — and the Formentor delivers. Steering is direct, body roll is minimal for a car in this class, and the DSG gearbox is crisp and quick to respond.
Switch to sport mode and you’ll feel a noticeable change in throttle response and gear shifts, reminding you this isn’t just another family wagon. The Formentor is fun to drive — especially in urban and twisty-road settings.
But it’s not all about thrills. The hybrid powertrain is impressively refined, and the electric-only mode is whisper-quiet, making for a serene and relaxed drive when you want it.
Interior and Tech: Premium Without Pretension
Inside, the Formentor V2 trim is a delightful place to be. The digital cockpit and 12-inch infotainment screen dominate the dash, offering crisp graphics and loads of connectivity. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are front and rear parking sensors, ambient lighting, heated seats, and dual-zone climate control.
The cabin materials are solid, with soft-touch plastics and a mix of faux leather and fabric in all the right places. It feels more Audi than SEAT — a sign Cupra is going upmarket.
Cargo Space: With the hybrid batteries on board, boot space is slightly compromised compared to a petrol-only model, but you’ll still get 345 litres — ample for shopping trips or a couple of small suitcases.
Cost Efficiency: A Leasing Sweet Spot
Let’s talk money — because at Pendle Lease, we know that’s what really matters.
The Cupra Formentor 1.5 eHybrid 204 is particularly appealing in the car leasing world because:
- It qualifies for lower BIK tax rates (currently around 8% for the 2025/26 tax year).
- Low CO2 emissions (around 27-33g/km) make it a greener choice for corporate fleets.
- Fuel savings are notable when running on electricity.
- You avoid range anxiety and lengthy charging stops on longer journeys, thanks to the petrol backup.
For those looking at a personal lease, you benefit from lower running costs and a car that looks far more expensive than it is.
Competitors: Who Does It Go Up Against?
In terms of rivals, the Cupra Formentor sits in a bit of a niche, but here’s who it’s up against:
- Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid – Shares much of the same DNA, but doesn’t look as sharp or drive as dynamically.
- Lexus UX 300e – All-electric and beautifully built, but lacks the fun factor and practicality.
- Peugeot 3008 Hybrid – Quirky and tech-laden, but can’t match the Formentor’s driving polish.
- BMW X1 xDrive25e – A premium plug-in SUV, but comes with a noticeably higher leasing price.
For those looking for a balance of performance, eco-credentials, style, and cost-effectiveness, the Formentor makes a compelling case.
Verdict: Why It’s a Strong Contender for Your Next Lease
The Cupra Formentor Estate 1.5 eHybrid 204 V2 DSG hits a rare sweet spot: it’s stylish, sporty, practical, efficient, and well-priced. Whether you're a company car driver trying to stay tax-efficient or a private customer wanting to lease something cool and capable, this Formentor checks a lot of boxes.
At Pendle Lease, we’ve seen a growing interest in hybrid vehicles, especially among drivers who want a future-proof car without committing fully to EV life. The Formentor offers that middle ground with flair — and for that reason, it’s one of our top picks.
Final Quirk: It's one of the few cars that can turn heads in a Waitrose car park and still make you smile when stuck in traffic. That’s not easy to pull off.
Ready to make a statement with your next car? Reach out to Pendle Lease today to explore vehicle leasing deals on the Cupra Formentor — whether it’s for a business lease or a personal lease, we’ve got you covered