Cupra’s first standalone model is a handsome crossover with decent road manners and plenty of space
Pros Sharp looks, handles well for a crossover, plenty of space and equipment
Cons Fiddly touch-sensitive heater almost as annoying as having to explain the badge to your mates
Pros Strong range of engine options Great interior style and quality Genuinely good fun to drive for an SUV
Cons Fairly limited personalisation options There are more practical options Some infotainment frustrations
The Cupra Formentor doesn't feel as playful as the closely related Volkswagen T-Roc R, but it’s every bit as fast in its similarly priced, range-topping form, plus it handles with composure and has a much nicer interior. In addition, cheaper, less powerful versions of the Formentor offer the same sporty looks as the flagship model – something that isn’t the case with lesser T-Rocs. Just bear in mind that you can have our 2021 Sports SUV of the Year, the Ford Puma ST, for not much more than the cheapest Formentor.
Pros Well equipped Surefooted and grippy handling Smart interior
Cons TSI 310 isn’t as much fun as the very best sports SUVs Slightly hesitant automatic gearbox Fiddly controls
The Peugeot 3008 is a fun-looking SUV with a big boot, stylish interior and decent levels of equipment, but it takes a while to get used to the quirky small steering wheel and high-up instrument cluster
Pros Stylish inside and out Big boot Efficient engines
Cons No four-wheel-drive option Entry-level diesel is slow Oddly positioned instruments
The 3008 would have to be the best Peugeot I’ve driven apart from the 308 and I was rather forlorn to hand back the keys.
Pros Bold, attractive styling HUD instrument panel/advanced graphics Comfortable, luxury interior Tech features Dynamic handling Large panoramic roof Powered tailgate
Cons Flat topped steering wheel No powered seats
