Volkswagen Passat vs Cupra Formentor

What's the difference?

VS
Volkswagen Passat
Volkswagen Passat

$17,950 - $52,990

2023 price

Cupra Formentor
Cupra Formentor

$51,990 - $94,990

2026 price

Summary

2023 Volkswagen Passat
2026 Cupra Formentor
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency
8.1L/100km (combined)

-
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Classic Euro seats ... aka hard on the backside
  • Missing some charging ports in rear
  • Expensive servicing costs

  • Small boot in PHEV
  • Formentor S runs out of puff
  • Lots of tyre roar
2023 Volkswagen Passat Summary

I'm calling it - the Volkswagen Passat is the forgotten hero of station wagons.

It's surprisingly large while retaining the creature comforts and understated styling of old-world glamour.

Then enters the R-Line. A badge that diehard Volkswagen enthusiasts know is synonymous with sporty performance and handling.

However, it can be overlooked for its more affordable rivals, the Mazda6 and Skoda Octavia wagons.

But does affordability take it out of the running for the family market? Or is this the answer for the drivers who don't want to compromise on performance but still have a kid (or three) to throw in the back?

I've been hauling my little family of three around town this week to see what the big blue wagon could do.

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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 Volkswagen Passat 2026 Cupra Formentor

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