@ Audi AG
@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
VS

Audi Q3 vs CUPRA Formentor – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or CUPRA Formentor?

Q3 @ Audi AG

Introduction: A Clash of SUV Titans

In the competitive world of compact SUVs, two names stand out: the Audi Q3 and the CUPRA Formentor. Both vehicles not only share the SUV arena but also offer a blend of performance, technology, and style that appeals to modern drivers. This article delves into a side-by-side comparison of these two impressive vehicles, focusing on their technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience to help potential buyers choose the right fit.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Performance and Engine Options

The Audi Q3 comes equipped with a range of engine options that cater to different driving needs. Buyers can choose between petrol and diesel engines, with power outputs ranging from 150 HP to a potent 245 HP. The car offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, with an acceleration time of as low as 5.8 seconds for the most powerful variant. Fuel consumption varies from 5.5 to 8.5 L/100 km, depending on the engine choice.

On the other hand, the CUPRA Formentor offers a more diverse range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options. Power output can reach as high as 333 HP, pushing the Formentor's acceleration down to an impressive 4.8 seconds. With fuel consumption figures as low as 5.1 L/100 km, the Formentor positions itself as not only sporty but also efficient. The addition of an electric range of up to 125 km from the hybrid variant adds versatility to its performance capabilities.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Transmission and Drive Options

Both the Audi Q3 and CUPRA Formentor provide a choice between manual and automatic transmissions. However, while the Q3 boasts a dual-clutch automatic system, the Formentor offers a similar feature alongside its traditional manual option. The drive types available also enhance driving experiences; Q3’s all-wheel-drive setup is impressive in various conditions, whereas the Formentor also provides an all-wheel drive, emphasizing agility alongside power.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Audi Q3 is renowned for its upscale interior materials and craftsmanship. It comfortably seats five passengers and offers advanced technology features such as virtual cockpit displays and MMI infotainment systems that enhance the overall driving experience. The trunk capacity is a generous 530 L, making the Q3 a practical choice for families or anyone requiring extra cargo space.

The CUPRA Formentor, while slightly more compact with a trunk capacity of around 450 L, doesn’t fall short in the technology department. It features a modern infotainment system along with digital cockpit elements. The sporty design aesthetic that CUPRA is known for is evident here, making the cabin feel more dynamic and versatile without compromising comfort.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Safety and Efficiency Ratings

Safety is a critical consideration in this segment, and both vehicles are equipped with a host of safety features. The Audi Q3 has received strong ratings in crash tests, bolstered by its advanced driver assistance systems. It falls into CO2 efficiency classes E through G, depending on the configuration.

The CUPRA Formentor shines in this regard, boasting an efficiency class ranging from B to G, reflecting its range of engine options and especially the hybrid variant. This not only helps in reduced emissions but also appeals to eco-conscious drivers looking for performance without compromising the environment.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

In the rivalry between the Audi Q3 and CUPRA Formentor, the ultimate choice boils down to the buyer’s preferences and priorities. The Q3 is a perfect blend of luxury and practicality, ideal for those who prioritize comfort and a refined driving experience. In contrast, the Formentor embodies sportiness and innovation, catering to enthusiasts who seek thrilling performance alongside modern versatility.

Whichever SUV you choose, both the Audi Q3 and CUPRA Formentor stand out as excellent options in the compact SUV market, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Q3 @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

CUPRA Formentor has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35200 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 2987 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: CUPRA Formentor manages with 0.40 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Audi Q3 with 1.70 L. The difference is about 1.30 L per 100 km.

As for range, the CUPRA Formentor performs slight better – achieving up to 126 km, about 7 km more than the Audi Q3.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the CUPRA Formentor has a to a small extent edge – offering 333 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 61 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Formentor is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 4.80 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.70 s. That’s about 0.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the CUPRA Formentor performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Audi Q3 tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: CUPRA Formentor pulls barely noticeable stronger with 420 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 20 Nm difference.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, CUPRA Formentor is a bit lighter – 1434 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 201 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Audi Q3 offers slight more room – 488 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 38 L.

In maximum load capacity, the CUPRA Formentor performs barely noticeable better – up to 1505 L, which is about 119 L more than the Audi Q3.

When it comes to payload, Audi Q3 minimal takes the win – 535 kg compared to 526 kg. That’s a difference of about 9 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the CUPRA Formentor shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £35,200
Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

CUPRA Formentor

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 333 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.4 - 8.8 L
  • Electric Range : 117 - 126 km
details

Audi Q3

5 (1)
rate

The Audi Q3 feels like a grown-up compact SUV with premium polish and city-friendly agility, the sort of car that makes weekend escapes and daily commutes equally satisfying. Inside, you get quality materials and smart packaging that keep things practical without skimping on style, so it’s an easy pick for buyers who want luxury without the drama.

details
A188605_overfull @ Audi AG
A188610_overfull @ Audi AG
A188613_overfull @ Audi AG
A1814467_overfull @ Audi AG
A188626_overfull @ Audi AG

CUPRA Formentor

With coupe-like lines and a muscular stance the Cupra Formentor blends sporty drama with everyday sense, so it looks like it’s in motion even at a standstill. Inside and out it’s tuned for drivers who want engaging handling and a grown-up cabin — practical enough for daily life, playful enough to make the commute feel like a short track session.

details
CUPRA-Formentor-VZ5_12_HQ @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
CUPRA-Formentor-VZ5_04_HQ @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
CUPRA-Formentor-VZ5_09_HQ @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
CUPRA-Formentor-VZ5_17_HQ @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
CUPRA-Formentor-VZ5_18_HQ @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

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Costs and Consumption
Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
35200 - 55000 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 8.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
117 - 126 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
8 - 199 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1434 - 1742 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
345 - 450 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4451 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1839 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1511 - 1537 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
1415 - 1505 L
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
458 - 526 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
150 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 9 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
250 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
110 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G, E, D, F
Brand
Audi
Brand
CUPRA

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Is the Audi Q3 offered with different drivetrains?

The Audi Q3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.