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 new Kuga is safer and roomier than before. Less fun, but a better family car
Pros Safer, more affordable, more spacious and more convenient than before
Cons Not as fun as it used to be. It's grown up and got some proper trousers...
The Ford Kuga has recently been facelifted to keep it competitive, but its dashboard still lags behind some rivals.With attractive styling, decent practicality and an impressive safety record, the Kuga is a convincing family SUV. It can't quite match the extremely high all-round standards of some of its latest rivals – the SEAT Ateca in particular – but for the right deal it's worth considering.
PROS Good value and well equipped Economical diesel engines Spacious interior
CONS Too many buttons inside Outshone by several rivals Inferior automatic gearboxes
Amongst other family SUVs, the previous Ford Kuga was a good looking car. Now, though, it’s even more distinctive to look at and its engine choices are bang up to date.
Pros Good fun to drive for an SUV Keen price and generous equipment Plug-in hybrid has a decent electric range
Cons Alternatives have plusher interiors Smaller boot than alternatives Poor tow rating for plug-in hybrid
