@ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.
@ Volvo Cars
VS

CUPRA Formentor vs Volvo XC40 – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether CUPRA Formentor or Volvo XC40 fits your lifestyle better.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Introduction to the Urban SUV Showdown

The automotive market has seen a surge in the demand for compact SUVs that blend performance, practicality, and innovative technologies. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison between two standout models: the CUPRA Formentor and the Volvo XC40. These vehicles not only embody the essence of modern driving but also cater to diverse consumer preferences and needs.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Design and Dimensions

Both the CUPRA Formentor and Volvo XC40 exude a striking presence on the road, yet they do so with distinct design philosophies. The Formentor is characterized by its aggressive stance and sporty lines, reflecting CUPRA's performance-oriented brand identity. With a length of 4451 mm, a width of 1839 mm, and a height of 1520 mm, it projects a bold yet streamlined silhouette.

In contrast, the Volvo XC40 embraces a more Scandinavian aesthetic with clean lines and a refined silhouette. Measuring 4425 mm in length, 1863 mm in width, and 1652 mm in height, it offers a taller, more grounded appearance while maintaining a compact footprint ideal for urban driving.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Performance and Powertrains

Under the hood, the CUPRA Formentor offers a wider range of engine choices than the XC40, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid options. The Formentor's line-up features power outputs ranging from 150 HP to a staggering 333 HP, paired with various transmission options such as a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic system. The performance variants can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.8 seconds, providing an exhilarating driving experience for enthusiasts.

On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 is offered with a petrol MHEV (mild-hybrid electric vehicle) engine that produces between 163 and 197 HP. With a focus on efficiency and comfort, the XC40 accomplishes the 0-100 km/h sprint in a respectable time of 7.6 to 8.6 seconds. Both vehicles cater to modern drivers' needs, but with inherently different approaches: CUPRA aims for performance and sportiness, while Volvo emphasizes a balance of power and eco-friendliness.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Fuel Efficiency and Sustainability

Fuel consumption is an essential factor for many car buyers. The CUPRA Formentor features impressive efficiency across its range, with the petrol variant consuming around 6.1 to 8.8 L/100 km, while its plug-in hybrid can achieve an astonishing electric range of up to 125 km with a battery capacity of 19.7 kWh.

In comparison, the Volvo XC40 excels in the hybrid domain as well, with a fuel consumption rate of approximately 6.5 L/100 km. Though it lacks the fully-electric capabilities of some of its competitors, it still stands tall in emissions performance, with CO2 emissions resting between 147 and 148 g/km.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Interior Space and Technology

Both the Formentor and XC40 comfortably accommodate up to five passengers, but their interior setups reflect their brands' distinct values. The CUPRA Formentor highlights a sport-oriented cabin with premium materials and a focus on driver engagement. Its trunk capacity stands at 450 L, making it suitable for weekend getaways or everyday errands.

The Volvo XC40, renowned for its practicality, boasts a slightly larger trunk capacity of 452 L. Its interior design speaks to Scandinavian minimalism, characterized by a user-friendly infotainment system and high-quality finishes. Innovations such as a state-of-the-art driver assistance system and a robust safety suite showcase Volvo’s commitment to passenger safety and comfort.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

In concluding this comparison, the choice between the CUPRA Formentor and Volvo XC40 ultimately hinges on the buyer's priorities. If performance, aggressive styling, and a variety of engine options are paramount, the CUPRA Formentor is the clear front-runner. However, for those valuing practicality, comfort, and eco-conscious engineering, the Volvo XC40 stands out as a well-rounded choice.

Both SUVs have their unique strengths, making them worthy contenders in the competitive compact SUV market. Potential buyers are encouraged to test drive both vehicles to discover which model aligns best with their lifestyle and driving preferences.

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

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

CUPRA Formentor has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35200 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 1521 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: CUPRA Formentor manages with 1.40 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.50 L. The difference is about 5.10 L per 100 km.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

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 significantly edge – offering 333 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 136 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the CUPRA Formentor is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.80 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 2.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the CUPRA Formentor performs distinct better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Volvo XC40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: CUPRA Formentor pulls noticeable stronger with 420 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 120 Nm difference.

Formentor @ CUPRA / SEAT S.A.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, CUPRA Formentor is slightly lighter – 1434 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 254 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Volvo XC40 offers slight more room – 452 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 2 L.

In maximum load capacity, the CUPRA Formentor performs somewhat better – up to 1505 L, which is about 177 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC40 barely noticeable takes the win – 532 kg compared to 526 kg. That’s a difference of about 6 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the CUPRA Formentor shows itself to be is largely superior 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 : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 333 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.4 - 8.8 L
  • Electric Range : 117 - 126 km
details

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.

Volvo XC40

5 (2)
rate

The Volvo XC40 wraps Scandinavian minimalism into a compact, city-ready SUV with a premium cabin that feels both practical and grown-up. It will suit buyers who prize safety, clever storage and a composed ride, proving that small dimensions don't mean small personality.

details
223202_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ Volvo Cars
223206_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ Volvo Cars
223200_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ Volvo Cars
265601_XC40_Recharge_Plug-In_Hybrid_R-Design_Leather_Charcoal_in_Charcoal @ Volvo Cars
265600_XC40_AWD_R-Design_expression_in_Crystal_White_Pearl @ Volvo Cars

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Costs and Consumption
Price
35200 - 55000 £
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 8.8 L
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
117 - 126 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
32 - 199 g/km
co2
147 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
54 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1434 - 1742 kg
Curb weight
1688 kg
Trunk capacity
345 - 450 L
Trunk capacity
452 L
Length
4451 mm
Length
4425 mm
Width
1839 mm
Width
1863 mm
Height
1511 - 1537 mm
Height
1652 mm
Max trunk capacity
1415 - 1505 L
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Payload
458 - 526 kg
Payload
532 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 333 HP
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
250 - 420 Nm
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 245 kW
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1969 cm3

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

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What drive types are available for the CUPRA Formentor?

Available configurations include All-Wheel Drive or Front-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.