Cupra Formentor vs BYD Sealion 8
What's the difference?

Cupra Formentor

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2027 price

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BYD Sealion 8

$56,990 - $70,990

2026 price

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Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2027 Cupra Formentor

2026 BYD Sealion 8

By Jack Quick

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

1.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Well-equipped
Massive range boost for PHEV
Fun and engaging to drive

Value
Efficiency
Performance

Dislikes

Small boot in PHEV
Formentor S runs out of puff
Lots of tyre roar

No physical spare tyre
Underwhelming drive experience
Clunky media system

2027 Cupra Formentor Summary

We’ve waited more than two years and it’s finally here.

Cupra has introduced the updated version of its most popular car in Australia, the Formentor.

A spicy small SUV rival to the likes of the Mini Countryman, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, among others, this design-led small SUV is now offered in more flavours than ever before.

It’s our first time testing out this updated Formentor on local soil, so read on to see how it stacks up.

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2026 BYD Sealion 8 Summary

As the flagship variant, the BYD Sealion 8 Premium all-wheel drive makes a big first impression as it arrives with seven seats, a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a features list that reads like a wish list.

It’s also stepping into a competitive space, lining up against the Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid, Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV and Mazda CX-80 P50e Azami - all promising similar blends of efficiency, space and value for Australian families.

The Sealion 8 Premium looks like a strong contender on paper … but does that translate to the real world?

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Deep dive comparison

2027 Cupra Formentor 2026 BYD Sealion 8

Verdict

It’s clear that Cupra has listened to feedback as this updated Formentor addresses many key criticisms of the pre-update car. Overall it makes it easier to live with and to recommend than before.

Although the VZe's updated PHEV powertrain offers double the amount of electric range, the V forms as a sweet spot of the line-up as it offers all the power and equipment you'd ever need. It's hard to look past the top-spec VZx though as power is a drug.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

There’s no denying the value the BYD Sealion 8 Premium offers as it packs a lot in for the price. Its efficiency and inoffensive looks add up to a good package and reflect what it does well. That said, the underwhelming driving experience and clunky media system are noticeable. Whether they're deal breakers is up to you.

Cupra Formentor vs BYD Sealion 8 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Cupra Formentor vs BYD Sealion 8
What's the difference?