Cupra Formentor vs Hyundai Santa Fe
What's the difference?

Cupra Formentor

$51,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Hyundai Santa Fe

$45,990 - $88,777

2025 price

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Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2026 Cupra Formentor

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

By Jack Quick

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

9.3L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

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

Superb storage in cabin
Forgiving to drive for most driver types
Passenger comfort in all three rows

Dislikes

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

Not as efficient as hybrid siblings
Exterior design won't land with everyone
Basic warranty terms on offer

2026 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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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Summary

A big welcome to one of the first turbo-petrol four-cylinder versions of the new-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, a model that launched locally with only its hybrid variants available to our market.

While it might not satisfy the fans of the previous-gen's V6 petrol engine, it might be enough for those who have been on the fence about going the hybrid route.

This is my third time in the new Santa Fe, and each tested variant has managed to offer something different and the base petrol grade, in FWD, is no different – but does it offer enough?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Cupra Formentor 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

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

So I asked at the beginning if the Hyundai Santa Fe FWD petrol offered enough for families looking for a large seven-seat SUV and the answer is: YES!

It's practical, has people-mover space and storage and is downright comfortable to drive. There's so much to like here.

Cupra Formentor vs Hyundai Santa Fe What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Cupra Formentor vs Hyundai Santa Fe
What's the difference?