Cupra Formentor vs KGM Torres
What's the difference?

Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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KGM Torres

$42,567 - $45,480

2026 price

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Summary

2026 Cupra Formentor

2026 KGM Torres

By Jack Quick

By Tim Nicholson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

Seating

Likes

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

Interior space and storage
Smooth hybrid powertrain
Decent value for money

Dislikes

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

Needs better tyres
Active safety needs more work
No spare wheel

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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2026 KGM Torres Summary

Sales figures show Australian buyers are moving away from pure internal combustion engine power for their family cars. Instead they’re looking for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric models.

While a number of brands - mostly newer manufacturers from China - are going down the plug-in hybrid route, others are focusing on regular or 'plugless' hybrids. Think models like the GWM Haval H6, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, MG HS and Toyota RAV4.

KGM (formerly SsangYong) is also headed down this path and the first hybrid model from the Korean carmaker is the Torres.

The Torres is a mid-sized five-seat SUV with unusual, rugged looks, but it hasn’t had an impact on the sales charts as yet. This hybrid version could change that. It’s affordable, spacious and offers a serious point of difference from its compatriots, as well as rivals from China and Japan.

But is it as good as those popular rivals?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Cupra Formentor 2026 KGM Torres

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

The KGM Torres Hybrid represents yet another choice for buyers in the family SUV segment, as if there aren’t already enough! But the Torres offers a level of value its mainstream competitors can’t match. The hybrid powertrain is a winner, however KGM needs to iron out a few issues, like tyre choice and the advanced driver assist tech. But there is a lot to like about the Torres Hybrid. And it’s definitely the pick over the pure petrol version.

Cupra Formentor vs KGM Torres What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Cupra Formentor vs KGM Torres
What's the difference?