Cupra Sportstourer VZ 333 PS

The widened body, sloping front end and pronounced air intakes leave no doubt about the sporty orientation of this estate car. The design includes triangular daytime running lights at the front, with matrix function on our test model. The bright red brand logo is located in the rear strip. The 19-inch ‘Polar Cupra Machined Sport Black & Silver’ wheels with 235/35 tyres have been specially designed for this model.

The interior is just as sporty. The standard “Dinamica” sports seats are very comfortable, but ‘Cup’ bucket seats are also available as an option. However, it is recommended that you try them out beforehand, as the integrated side bolsters can make it difficult to get in and out of the vehicle on a daily basis. The updated infotainment system with a 12.9-inch touchscreen is slightly tilted towards the driver, but it takes some time to get used to. The steering wheel controls are a plus.

But let’s focus on the essentials, namely driving: the firm chassis setting ensures precise front axle guidance in sport mode. Thanks to adaptive DCC damping control, comfort in normal driving mode is significantly more pleasant on a daily basis. Thanks to its all-wheel drive (4Drive), the Cupra offers maximum traction when exiting corners. The rear axle is equipped with two electro-hydraulically controlled clutches, known as a ‘torque vectoring system’. This results in independent torque control. This means that during fast cornering, power is optimally distributed between the left and right rear wheels. An Akebono braking system is available as an option. The pedal pressure point offers sufficient resistance to allow you, as the driver, to achieve the best possible braking control.

Power is provided by a newly developed 333 hp 2.0-litre petrol engine, which will make you smile every time you accelerate. The engine’s characteristics are very well suited to this type of vehicle. The maximum torque of 420 Nm is already reached at 2100 rpm and provides sufficient thrust at low and medium revs, then the Cupra reaches its maximum power at 5600 rpm without interruption. Unfortunately, the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox shifts a little timidly via the paddles on the steering wheel. Fuel consumption is between 8 l/100 km and 12 l/100 km, depending on driving style.

The entry-level price for the Cupra Sportstourer VZ starts at £45,515, while our test model, equipped with all safety systems, will set you back £49,690. In return, you’ll enjoy an exceptional driving experience and the practicality already mentioned. In a way, it’s a hot hatch with a boot!