Have the 228kw Sportstourer 4drive version in Europe. Only three weeks I had this car, but I already love it, probably best price/performance car currently out there - and there really is some performance. Practical as well, especially with the back seats down. So far so good, I must really recommend it. Some say it likes to drink fuel, but it actually is not that bad considering what that engine can do. As for the infotainment - this seems to be the problem with all the reviewers who only drive the car for a few days (and it was for me when I tested it as well to be honest), but, in all honesty, who really fiddles with their cabin temps all day long? I just leave it at whatever is comfortable and put it on auto. If you want to defrost the windows, for example, there is a shortcut button near the steering wheel where the light controls are, no need to go in the infotainment. And - the infotainment for most people will still be on Android Auto or Apple Carplay anyway (which switches on automatically after you've connected it), so no use of extra buttons. Thus, it is irrelevant and does not impact everyday practicality at all. The wireless charger is almost useless though. You will get some 10-15% charge and then the phone will overheat. Not worth clicking that box.
More wagons are needed! So much better than SUVs! More space and better handling. Please let Cupra know to get rid of the stupid non-backlit touch buttons for the aircon! At night you can't see a damn thing when trying to adjust the temp. Tactile buttons are needed for that function to reduce driver distraction. Cupra sales reps here in Aus have said to me it's a very common complaint, so more whinging might bring change. *EDIT: never mind, got to 4:52 and that newer version looks promising!
I'm surprised you didn't come to NZ to drive one Paul, they are sold new here in RHD and we get the 228kw AWD version too. Not a big fan of the matte paint though.
4:31 I have a Cupra Leon. You can literally just touch above where the symbols are to change the temp or the volume. Completely acknowledge the lack of back lighting is annoying, but I won’t cop the silly reporting about “only swipe can change the volume/temp”.
Paul, you are among the very best automotive journalists to present automotive news. Very good language and interesting to see your tests. I myself am from Norway, but I see Swedish car tests, German, UK and those from the USA, actually also some from the Netherlands, i.e. the best in the world, as the case may be. Keep up your good work. Why I also follow you is that you Aussies are good with 4X4.
These estate/wagon models are pretty popular here in the UK and in Europe and the Formentor with the 5 cylinders is only available in some European countries we don't get that in the UK just the overpriced RSQ3
Space at the back ✓, Fancy and looks comfortable at the front seat ✓. Sexy looking Avant, Wagon, sports wagon, whatever wagon ✓. Bring it down here (land of Oz), please.
The swipe bar was a total turn off for me. Remembering this horrible idea from the mac, with a centralized control device for many features... its just absolutely terrible and should never be done again. I was serious looking at this car. But when I saw that I was put off so much. yuck yuck yuck.
Haha, soon, the way the power companies are charging per kWh, it'll be cheaper to run fossil fuels and go to the Bowser other than connect one to a power socket, "how scary is that"?😮 Just a niggle (serious one) at power prices here in Aus.
