ABT Unveils 626 HP Cupra Formentor VZ5 635, Outperforming Lamborghini Huracan

German performance specialist ABT has unleashed the most powerful version of the Cupra Formentor VZ5, delivering 626 horsepower—a figure that eclipses the original Lamborghini Huracan. The limited-edition model, codenamed VZ5 635, marks a historic milestone as the first Cupra to outperform the iconic Italian supercar.

The project, capped at just 30 units, celebrates ABT’s 130th anniversary and redefines the crossover’s performance potential. At its core lies a heavily modified 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, a powertrain soon to vanish from Europe in its current non-electrified form.

Engine Upgrades: From 365 HP to 626 HP

The transformation begins with a new turbocharger, a high-performance intercooler, a recalibrated ECU, and ABT’s proprietary water-ethanol injection system (IWI). A dedicated control unit monitors the setup, with fluid levels tracked via the myABT app.

ABT claims the IWI system provides "a very strong internal cooling effect," enabling the engine to sustain peak performance without throttling back. The result is an output of 626 hp (467 kW / 635 PS) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque—an increase of 241 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) over the standard Cupra Formentor VZ5.

While ABT has not published a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time, the VZ5 635 boasts a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

From Concept to Reality: ABT’s Formentor Timeline

The VZ5 635 represents the pinnacle of ABT’s Formentor development roadmap, which began in 2021 with a 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS) tune for the four-cylinder model. In 2022, ABT upgraded the five-cylinder VZ5 to 444 hp (331 kW / 450 PS). The latest iteration even surpasses the ABT-tuned Audi RS3-R, which peaks at 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS) from the same engine architecture.

Chassis and Styling: Performance Meets Refinement

The VZ5 635 isn’t just about raw power—it also features a sport-tuned suspension with adjustable coilovers and separately tunable compression and rebound. ABT developed the chassis with the Nürburgring in mind but ensures it remains practical for daily driving.

Visually, the SUV sports a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, along with a gloss black roof spoiler extension. It rides on 20-inch gloss black alloys, set lower than the standard model thanks to the upgraded suspension.

Inside, the changes are subtle but distinctive: an ABT start-stop button, VZ5 635 embroidery on the floor mats, and "1 on 30" lettering embossed on the climate vent trim—a nod to the limited production run.

Audi’s Five-Cylinder: A Viking Funeral for an Icon

The VZ5 635 serves as a dramatic send-off for Audi’s 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, which is being phased out in Europe in its current non-electrified form. ABT’s treatment—transforming it into a 626 HP powerhouse—ensures the engine goes out with a roar rather than a whimper.