Volkswagen Group is once again putting Audi’s legendary turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine to work, but not in the model fans were hoping for. While many enthusiasts have long dreamed of a Golf R powered by this thrilling unit, the honor instead goes back to Cupra, which is reviving the Formentor VZ5 with a fresh update and a new level of exclusivity. Originally launched in 2021 as a limited edition of 7,000 units, the Formentor VZ5 is now returning in a facelifted form — and this time, production will be capped at just 4,000 examples worldwide, making it even more desirable for collectors and performance fans alike.
This new Formentor VZ5 is built upon the updated version of Cupra’s sporty crossover, but it doesn’t get the full force of Audi’s 2.5 TFSI engine. Instead of the 394 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque found in the RS3, Cupra’s iteration delivers a slightly detuned 385 horsepower and 480 Nm of torque. Even so, those figures ensure serious performance that’s only marginally below its Audi counterpart. As before, power is sent through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and while the system is related to Audi’s, Cupra confirms it uses its own all-wheel-drive setup rather than a direct Quattro adaptation. This includes a torque-splitting rear differential, likely derived from the RS Torque Splitter first seen on the RS3, helping the car maintain sharp handling and dynamic cornering control.
Although Cupra hasn’t shared the official acceleration times for the facelifted model, expectations are that they’ll mirror the outgoing version’s figures — 0 to 100 km/h in around 4.2 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Externally, the new VZ5 retains its signature visual cues, including stacked exhaust pipes reminiscent of the Lexus RC F, finished in Cupra’s trademark copper color to match the 20-inch alloy wheels and front badge accents.
One notable improvement over the original edition is the availability of right-hand drive, opening the door for sales in the UK and other markets where the first-generation VZ5 wasn’t offered. While official pricing hasn’t been announced yet, it’s expected to be positioned above the Formentor VZ, which starts at roughly €60,000 in Spain, but below Audi’s RS3, which costs around €85,000 in Cupra’s home market. Production of the new VZ5 is slated to commence at Cupra’s Barcelona factory in early 2026.
Meanwhile, Volkswagen enthusiasts continue to wait for confirmation of a Golf R equipped with this famous five-cylinder engine. Time may be running out, however, as Audi has announced that the 2.5 TFSI will not be updated to comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, set to take effect in November 2026. With limited sales of the RS3 and increasing pressure to electrify, the financial case for redeveloping the engine appears slim.
As things stand, the RS3 remains the only Audi still featuring this iconic powerplant, following the discontinuation of the TT RS and the absence of a new RS Q3. Outside Audi, only Cupra and niche automakers like Donkervoort continue to celebrate the 2.5 TFSI’s unmistakable sound and character. Fans still hold out hope that before it disappears for good, Volkswagen will finally deliver the ultimate five-cylinder Golf R, a dream that began with the never-realized Mk7 R400/R420 concept.