Used Cupra Formentor 2020-present reliability
Category: Coupe SUV
The Cupra Formentor is a sharp-looking car that handles neatly and is very well-equipped. Reliability is a concern, though
What should I look for in a used Cupra FORMENTOR estate?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
On the whole, the Formentor is a solid car and it tends to be bought by people who look after their cars well. Still, check the interior for signs of wear and tear and alloys for any kerb damage. Make sure all electrics work as they should.
What are the most common problems with a used Cupra FORMENTOR estate?
As of writing, the Formentor has four recalls listed. To check whether any of them have been rectified, you can contact your local Cupra dealer. You will not have to pay for anything involving the recall.
Reason for recall
The Front Assist is not configured correctly.
How the manufacturer will repair: The Front Assist assistants must be activated in all affected vehicles.
Number of affected vehicles: 55
Date of recall: 09/12/2020
Reason for recall
The front seat belts may not be properly anchored due to a manufacturing error.
How the manufacturer will repair: Check the front seat belts in all the affected vehicles and replace if necessary.
Number of affected vehicles: 346
Date of recall: 31/08/2021
Reason for recall
The bolted connection of the pull rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal may come loose resulting in a loss of all service braking ability.
How the manufacturer will repair: Vehicles are not to be driven and the bolted connection of the input rod between the electromechanical brake servo and brake pedal must be checked and if necessary retightened.
Number of affected vehicles: 1
Date of recall: 10/09/2021
Reason for recall
On certain vehicles with electromechanical brake servo and DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) of a limited production period there is a possibility that a heat protection mat was incorrectly fitted. In individual cases the brake fluid reservoir can melt and cause a brake fluid leak into the engine compartment.
How the manufacturer will repair: A check of the installation of the heat protection mat on affected vehicles will be conducted. If necessary the correct heat shield condition will be restored and an additional heat shield installed.
Number of affected vehicles: 2499
Date of recall: 26/01/2024
Click here for more information. Contact your local Cupra dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Cupra FORMENTOR estate reliable?
The Formentor doesn't have a great reputation for reliability. In our most recent Reliability Survey it finished in 25th place out of 33 cars with a score of 89.8% in the family SUV section, which is better than the Range Rover Evoque, but worse than the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 and Jaguar E-Pace.
Cupra as a brand redeemed itself in our 2024 survey, finishing in 17th place out of 31 manufacturers – that's an improvement on 2023, where it finished in last place. In terms of rankings, it scored better than Mercedes and Audi, but worse than Skoda, Volvo and Mini.
It should be noted that we had an issue with a 2024 plug-in hybrid example that we had for a Cupra Formentor long-term test. The car displayed a couple of error messages relating to the gearbox, with it leaving the car undriveable in one instance. This doesn't bode too well for reliability, especially considering the car's poor results in the past – it finished in 33rd place out of 34 cars in the family SUV section of our 2023 survey.
Used Cupra Formentor reliability: the owners' view
In our latest Reliability Survey, Cupra Formentor owners said they had mixed results with reliability and dealer support.
Several owners reported early warning light issues, particularly in plug-in hybrid models, with some experiencing repeated faults linked to the battery or electrical systems. One hybrid driver noted their car spent “several weeks” at the dealership due to an unresolved charging fault.
On the petrol side, a handful of readers flagged problems with engine warning lights and faulty sensors, though these were typically fixed quickly. However, experiences with Cupra dealers were inconsistent. While a few praised their local centres for helpful communication and fast turnarounds, others were frustrated by poor diagnostics and long wait times for parts.
Overall, while some Formentor owners have had fault-free experiences, a number have faced reliability niggles and patchy aftercare.
