Lexus UX vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

Lexus UX

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2026 price

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Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Summary

2026 Lexus UX

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Emily Agar

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 2.0L

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Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

4.2L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

Solid on-road handling
Great fuel economy
Long time between fills

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

Dislikes

Reminds you too often its a base grade
Drive modes largely indistinguishable
Cosy back seat

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

2026 Lexus UX Summary

Replacing the long-standing UX250h, the more powerful Lexus UX300h hybrid sits at the luxury end of the compact SUV segment, and the latest update brings a refined line-up along with tweaks to both design and technology. In this review, I’m looking at the base Luxury grade to see what it's like to live with this hybrid day-today and how it stacks up against its nearest rivals.

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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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Deep dive comparison

2026 Lexus UX 2026 Cupra Formentor

Verdict

The updated Lexus UX300h Luxury is a solid entry in the premium compact SUV segment. It doesn’t break new ground, and there are areas that could be improved, but it handles well, offers a thoughtful selection of amenities for a base-grade luxury model, and its compact size makes it easy to park almost anywhere. For buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and practical hybrid with a luxury badge, it’s a dependable choice.

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.

Lexus UX vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Lexus UX vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?