If you read our most recent Formentor VZ5 story back in July, you'll know that Cupra's fetching coupé SUV is gaining some proper grunt and pedigree with the installation of Audi's warbling 2.5-litre five-cylinder TSI motor. For a quick recap of the details, we're talking: 390hp at 5700-7000rpm, 354 lb ft of torque at 2,250rpm and 0-62mph in just 4.2 seconds. And the Formentor will get the 4Drive four-wheel-drive system from the up-coming Audi RS3, including Drift Mode which is enabled by clutches on the rear axle said to apportion up to 100 per cent of torque to each rear wheel as required.
As Dr. Werner Tietz, Executive Vice-President for R&D at Cupra, put it: "This incredible five-cylinder engine, the slick DSG dual-clutch transmission and characteristic sound deliver a vehicle without parallel. And with the addition of the torque splitter and the new Drift Mode, car enthusiasts will be able to experience the ultimate in terms of driving dynamics on closed tracks."
What you won't know, because we didn't know it back in July, is whether any of the 7,000 left-hand drive VZ5s being produced are definitely bound for the UK, and if so, when. Well, we have an update on that. The good news is that yes, there will be cars coming officially to the UK and the order books will open before the end of the year. It's expected that a maximum of just 10 cars will be allocated to us, though, so you'll need to be quick on the draw. Deliveries were originally being scheduled for Q4 2021 as well, but that target looks in doubt because of delays brought about by (yes, you've guessed it) the chip shortage and also the fact that the manufacturer, understandably, is prioritising more profitable and relevant lines, such as its latest electric models. That said, early 2022 should be the longest you'll have to wait.
We know the VZ5 spec will include six-pot Akebono calipers clamping 18-inch discs, with 20-inch rims, alongside a carbon fibre rear diffuser, four copper-trimmed exhaust pipes and a choice of three body colours: Midnight Black, Magnetic Tech Matt and Petrol Blue Matt. Full UK specs and prices are still unconfirmed but expect it to essentially mirror Germany, which has announced a starting price of 61,650 euros.
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