Cupra Formentor vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?

Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

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Summary

2026 Cupra Formentor

2026 Mazda CX-5

By Jack Quick

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

—

Inline 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

—

7.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

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

Comfortable, dynamic drive
Practical family interior
Strong safety package

Dislikes

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

No hybrid option
Engine can feel sluggish
No rear charging ports

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 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

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Interested in a Mazda CX-5?

Deep dive comparison

2026 Cupra Formentor 2026 Mazda CX-5

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 Mazda CX-5 Evolve kicks some goals and with its comfortable on-road handling, robust safety equipment and practical interior, it’s still a solid choice for families looking for a mid-sized SUV. The only thing it’s missing is a hybrid powertrain, which would make this already well-rounded package even more compelling.

Cupra Formentor vs Mazda CX-5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Cupra Formentor vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?