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BMW 1 Series vs CUPRA Formentor comparison

Compare performance (300 HP vs 390 HP), boot space and price (29,400 £ vs 35,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW 1 Series or CUPRA Formentor?

BMW 1 Series vs CUPRA Formentor: Key differences

BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly cheaper
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CUPRA Formentor

4.8 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • substantially more efficient
  • somewhat quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
  • a bit more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

1 Series

BMW 1 Series VS CUPRA Formentor — the compact hatchback meets the edgy crossover

BMW 1 Series and CUPRA Formentor sit on different sides of the same shopping list, so this comparison is about personality as much as parcels. If you’re searching for a sharp comparison between a tidy, premium hatchback and a bolder, sportier compact crossover, you’ve landed in the right place. We’ll cut through the brochure-speak to show how the everyday feel, cabin tone and practicality diverge in real life. Expect to read which car leans into driver engagement and which leans into presence and versatility. This is about choosing a car that suits your daily rhythm, not picking a trophy for a spec sheet.

Formentor

Different attitudes: composed precision versus loud intent

BMW 1 Series projects a composed, buttoned-down persona that favours precision and a discreet premium feel, while the CUPRA Formentor broadcasts sportiness and emotion at first glance. Inside, the BMW 1 Series tends to feel more restrained and driver-focused, whereas the CUPRA Formentor pushes design cues and a more theatrical cabin atmosphere. The contrast isn’t just styling — it’s a clash of intent: measured control versus expressive flair. Choose the mood you want to live with every day, because that emotional fit is what you’ll notice first and last.

1 Series

How they behave in real life: city tightness and weekend practicality

BMW 1 Series is the urban specialist that slips into tight parking, makes short commutes feel tidy and keeps motorway work relaxed; the CUPRA Formentor translates that capability into more usable cargo room and a higher driving position that’s friendlier for family loading. In town the BMW 1 Series rewards nimble steering and compact footprints, while the CUPRA Formentor wins when you need more everyday versatility for bikes, bags or weekend gear. On longer runs the BMW 1 Series feels composed and controlled, but the CUPRA Formentor offers a more planted, assured presence for mile-munching with luggage. Real-world buyers will feel that trade-off each morning — agility versus load-and-go freedom.

Formentor

Buying for self-image: understatement versus statement

BMW 1 Series suits the buyer who wants a premium badge without shouting — it’s for people who value subtlety, clean lines and a tidy driving experience, whereas the CUPRA Formentor appeals to someone who wants a car that grabs attention and looks sporty in the driveway. If your purchase is part practical transport and part personal signature, the CUPRA Formentor does more of the expressive heavy lifting. If you prefer to let performance and engineering speak softly, the BMW 1 Series keeps things elegant and self-assured. Either pick sends a clear signal about how you want to be seen on the road.

1 Series

Who should seriously consider the BMW 1 Series?

BMW 1 Series is ideal for the commuter who values a compact footprint, a premium cabin vibe and a car that feels tidy at the end of a long week, while the CUPRA Formentor might feel too outspoken for that same buyer. If you prioritise efficient daily use, parking convenience and understated brand prestige, the BMW 1 Series is tailored to that mindset. It’s also a strong pick for someone who wants a driver-centric feel without oversized dimensions. In short, pick the BMW 1 Series if you value neatness, composure and discreet style above theatrical presence.

Formentor

Who should seriously consider the CUPRA Formentor (and how it compares to the 1 Series)?

CUPRA Formentor is the one for buyers who want sporty looks, flexible practicality and a car that makes an impression, while the BMW 1 Series will feel too reserved for those same buyers. If you need extra cargo space, a taller driving position and a style that reads as more youthful and expressive, the CUPRA Formentor answers that brief and doubles as a weekend companion. It’s the better match for those who want to combine practical utility with a bit of theatrical flair on the road. Read the detailed specs and figures below to see how these personality-driven differences play out on paper before you make your own call.

Frequently compared as well

CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Terramar
VS
Choosing between the Cupra Formentor and the Cupra Terramar means deciding whether you want a sporting, head-turning compact crossover or a more conventional compact SUV that leans toward comfort and space. The Formentor emphasizes sharper handling, bold styling and a driver-focused feel, while the …
CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Raval
VS
The Formentor and Raval are two different CUPRA models—one built around sporty performance and versatile packaging, the other aimed at compact urban efficiency—so this comparison will help you pick the best fit for your needs. I’ll compare performance, interior space, tech and running costs to make …

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

1 Series

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

BMW 1 Series is visibly cheaper – starting at 29,400 £ , while the CUPRA Formentor costs 35,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 6,394 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the CUPRA Formentor uses 1.4 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the BMW 1 Series with 4.3 L/100km. The difference is about 2.9 L/100km.

Formentor

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the CUPRA Formentor offers clearly more power – delivering 390 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 90 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Formentor is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 4.2 s, while the BMW 1 Series takes 4.9 s. That’s about 0.7 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the CUPRA Formentor delivers moderately more torque with 480 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm more.

1 Series

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, CUPRA Formentor is very slightly lighter – 1,434 kg compared to 1,465 kg. The difference is around 31 kg.

Looking at boot space, the CUPRA Formentor offers a bit more boot space – 450 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 70 L.

When it comes to payload, the CUPRA Formentor carries only slightly more – 526 kg compared to 510 kg. That’s a difference of about 16 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The CUPRA Formentor holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £35,800
Formentor

CUPRA Formentor

  • Engine Type Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 150 - 390 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.4 - 10.1 L/100km
  • Electric Range 117 - 126 km
details
BMW 1 Series
CUPRA Formentor

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series is a compact premium hatchback that injects a proper sense of driving fun into everyday life, with sharp handling and a cabin that punches above its class. It’s a great pick for buyers who want sporty manners without losing practicality, and yes, you’ll still get that unmistakable BMW grin behind the wheel.

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Reviews BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

CUPRA Formentor

The CUPRA Formentor blends sporty driving dynamics with crossover practicality, delivering sharp handling and an engaging character that makes it fun on twisty roads as well as in daily driving. Inside, it pairs a driver-focused cabin and premium materials with clever practicality, offering a confident, distinctive alternative to conventional SUVs.

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Reviews CUPRA Formentor

4.8 (3 Reviews)
rate
Imro
3 Aug 2026, 12:27:50

I drive a Formentor myself and I'm very satisfied with it. Although it's a relatively heavy car, it feels surprisingly light on its feet and can be steered confidently through corners. At the same time it's also perfectly suited for relaxed drives. But as soon as you start driving a bit more sportily, it responds instantly and shows what it's capable of.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Waldemar
7 Feb 2026, 09:46:20

For me, a mature man, the "civilian" version was enough — an automatic, very well-equipped, with the 150‑hp engine in Magnetic Tech.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Frequently compared as well

CUPRA Formentor
Ford Kuga
VS
The Cupra Formentor and the Ford Kuga are two popular compact SUVs that take very different approaches: the Formentor prioritises sporty driving dynamics and striking design, while the Kuga focuses on comfort, practicality and efficient powertrains. This comparison will cover performance, interior …
CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Leon
VS
Choose the CUPRA Formentor if you want SUV presence, extra boot space and a comfy ride that still hides a spicy engine under the hood; pick the CUPRA Leon if you crave a lower, sharper hot-hatch feel with crisper handling and more driver-focused thrills. In short: the Formentor impresses with …
CUPRA Formentor
Kia Sportage
VS
Cupra Formentor vs Kia Sportage — two compact crossovers that take very different approaches: the Formentor leans toward sporty performance and sharp handling, while the Sportage focuses on comfort, space and everyday practicality. I’ll compare performance, interior quality, tech, running costs and …
CUPRA Formentor
VW T-Roc
VS
The Cupra Formentor and the VW T‑Roc are compact crossovers that balance everyday practicality with distinct personalities—one leaning sporty and style‑focused, the other aiming for broad appeal and comfort. This quick comparison highlights how the Formentor’s sharper driving character and design …
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
VS
The BMW 1 Series is a compact, driver-focused hatchback that emphasises sharper handling and a sportier feel, while the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a practical compact MPV designed around interior space, accessibility and family-friendly versatility. Choose the 1 Series if you prioritise engaging …
CUPRA Formentor
Peugeot 2008
VS
CUPRA Formentor and Peugeot 2008 go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the CUPRA Formentor or …
BMW 1 Series
BMW X1
VS
The BMW 1 Series and BMW X1 share BMW’s driving focus but target different needs: the 1 Series is a compact, sporty hatch that prioritises handling and driver engagement, while the X1 is a compact SUV offering higher seating, more interior space and everyday practicality. Pick the 1 Series if you …
CUPRA Formentor
CUPRA Tavascan
VS
The CUPRA Formentor and Tavascan take different approaches to sporty, premium compact SUVs: the Formentor mixes sharp handling with combustion and hybrid powertrains, while the Tavascan is CUPRA’s fully electric, design‑forward coupe‑SUV. This quick comparison will help you choose between the …
BMW 1 Series
CUPRA Formentor

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,400 - 51,900 £
Price
35,800 - 62,500 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 10.1 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
117 - 126 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
112 - 173 g/km
co2
32 - 229 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,465 - 1,625 kg
Curb weight
1,434 - 1,742 kg
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
345 - 450 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,800 mm
Width
1,839 - 1,852 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
475 - 510 kg
Payload
439 - 526 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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
122 - 300 HP
Power HP
150 - 390 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.2 - 9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
Torque
250 - 480 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
Power kW
110 - 287 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
Engine capacity
1,498 - 2,480 cm3

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, E, D, F, B
Brand
BMW
Brand
CUPRA
What drive types are available for the BMW 1 Series?

The BMW 1 Series is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.