Audi's RS3-powered Cupra Formentor VZ5 is scheduled to enter the Australian market for the first time during its second global production run.

Cupra Australia has confirmed the local introduction of the Formentor VZ5, which will be produced in a limited number of units worldwide in 2026.

The number of units allocated to Australian showrooms has not yet been specified, as the country did not receive any vehicles during the first production run three years ago due to the absence of right-hand-drive models.

The Formentor VZ5 is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine sourced from the Audi range, producing 287 kW and 480 Nm. This output is slightly lower than the 294 kW/480 Nm configuration used in the RS Q3 SUV and the 294 kW/500 Nm of the RS3 hatch and sedan.

The initial batch of VZ5s was reported to achieve 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, 0.3 seconds faster than the RS Q3.

Official performance figures for the updated model have not yet been released.

The previous Formentor performance flagship, the VZx, was equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 228 kW and 400 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h in a claimed 4.9 seconds.

Like the VZx, the VZ5 distributes power to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and includes lateral torque vectoring and a rear differential capable of distributing torque between the rear wheels, also sourced from Audi components.

Styling updates for the Formentor VZ5 include a variant-specific front splitter with the VZ5 logo, wider wheel arches, and revised rear bumper and diffuser designs. The model also features diagonally stacked copper-coloured quad exhaust tips and VZ5-specific 20-inch alloy wheels.

On the inside it includes the four-cylinder Formentor's Cup Bucket power-adjustable sports seats, which are expected to be offered as an option on the Australian Formentor VZ5.

Full Australian specifications and pricing have not been confirmed, with further information expected closer to the model's on-sale date.

The Australian launch date has also not been announced, but production of the limited-run model is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 (January to March), with Australian allocations likely to follow shortly thereafter.

Mainstream models of the facelifted Formentor range are expected to be introduced in Australia in early 2026.