Cupra has unveiled closely up to date variations of its Leon small hatch and Formentor compact SUV.
The brand new Formentor debuts a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system that may journey on electrical energy alone for as much as 100km.
The corporate has additionally confirmed a brand new wagon model of the performance-focused Leon as a non secular successor to the once-loved Golf R wagon from mum or dad firm Volkswagen.
Nonetheless, the brand new fashions received’t arrive in time to make the most of the federal government’s fringe advantages tax (FBT) exemption for individuals who lease PHEVs by firm wage sacrifice applications.
The beneficiant FBT exemptions for PHEVs are presently deliberate to finish on April 1, 2025. EVs have till no less than 2027 for a similar advantages.
Cupra says curiosity in its Formentor VZe has surged, prompting it to order extra inventory and a restricted version mannequin of the outgoing model.
Nonetheless, Cupra concedes its most compelling PHEV but – the brand new Formentor that can be capable to DC quick cost at as much as 50kW for a full cost in about half an hour — will simply miss out on the FBT advantages.
“We’re taking the very highest specification efficiency engines … they arrive on stream slightly bit later,” says Cupra Australia model director Ben Wilks.
Cupra Australia product and advertising and marketing chief Jeff Shafer says the corporate nonetheless expects eager curiosity within the automotive.
“Not everyone seems to be ready the place a BEV is true for them right this moment and I feel plug-in hybrids are an answer for some folks.”
The corporate additionally confirmed off the brand new Leon vary, which features a Sportstourer wagon that’s on the want checklist for Australia.
Whereas the wagon isn’t anticipated to do huge gross sales volumes, Cupra believes it’s going to fulfill fanatics who beforehand gravitated to the Volkswagen Golf R wagon.
“It’s a distinct segment … nevertheless it’s a distinct segment that’s attention-grabbing to us,” says Shafer.
The Sportstourer shall be obtainable with the brand new plug-in hybrid system within the Formentor, in addition to a brand new 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine making 245kW, probably the most ever for the fledgling model.
Talking on the world reveal of the 2 recent fashions within the model’s dwelling nation of Spain, chief government Wayne Griffiths stated the corporate was nonetheless targeted on design and efficiency, reinforcing that it was “not a premium or status model” however “an alternate for the following technology of automotive lovers on the lookout for one thing completely different”.
The brand new Formentor can have a recent nostril, lights and bumpers in addition to an LED gentle strip throughout the rear that includes an illuminated Cupra brand.
Its raised bonnet and slim higher grille give it a extra distinctive face.
The Leon takes a unique strategy with a decrease bonnet designed to strengthen its sporty intentions.
It additionally will get new lights and bumpers, together with 3D-look tail lamps that incorporate Cupra’s trademark triangular look.
And the brand can also be illuminated in crimson throughout the rear.
