Renault Captur vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

Renault Captur

$15,500 - $23,950

2023 price

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Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Mini Countryman

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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2023 Renault Captur

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.3L

—

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

6.6L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

Appealing design
Premium cabin
Invigorating driving experience

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

Dislikes

Expensive
Fiddly gear selector
Requires 95 RON premium petrol

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

2023 Renault Captur Summary

One of Renault’s most successful models globally with over 1.5 million sales of the original, the Captur has nevertheless struggled in Australia since its 2015 launch.

Last year, it was Europe’s 11th bestseller outright, outselling stalwarts like the Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. Only the Peugeot 2008 and VW T-Roc were more popular amongst SUVs. In contrast, only 533 found homes over here in 2011.

However, with the largely all-new second-generation Captur launched locally last year now gaining market traction with a 200 per cent-plus sales spike, the 123-year-old brand’s VW T-Cross rival may yet finally fly Down Under.

We take a look at the recently-released RS Line range-topper, to see just how well the Captur shapes up in urban Australia.

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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

2023 Renault Captur 2026 Cupra Formentor

Verdict

There’s no denying the Captur RS Line is expensive.

But it’s also sophisticated, cultured, comfy, friendly and fun, possessing a quality and capability normally expected – but rarely delivered as roundly – in more premium-branded small SUVs. Seen in this light, the Renault’s value is relative.

Better still, if the price is just too rich for you, there are three cheaper grades offering equal promise. Which is why the charming Captur deserves to succeed in Australia.

$40,800 before on-road costs

Based on new car retail price

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.

Renault Captur vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Renault Captur vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?