SEAT has updated its small city car, the Ibiza, refreshing the exterior and undertaking a revolution to the interior, which includes new connected technology and driver assistance systems.
The SEAT Ibiza has been a key pillar of the brand’s success since it was first introduced in 1984 and, after 37 years, five generations and nearly six million sales, it’s SEAT’s most successful vehicle to ever roll off the production line. The updated, fifth-generation model is aiming to maintain that winning performance as a key model in its segment in Europe.
Designed, developed and produced in Barcelona, at SEAT’s headquarters in Martorell, the new SEAT Ibiza will enter production in the third quarter of the year.
The SEAT Ibiza is well known for its iconic and youthful design, defined by its perfect proportions. The new model is defined by subtle additions to the vehicle’s exterior aesthetic that enhance the already characterful visual.
Lighting technology is a central part of any vehicle’s ‘face’ and the SEAT Ibiza now integrates full LED technology as standard. Eco LEDs are standard on SE and SE Technology models, while FR models upwards get full LED technology, offering better visibility with lower energy consumption.
The Ibiza’s side profile maintains its short overhangs, with wheels pushed out to the four corners of the vehicle, providing stability and highlighting its dynamic ability. The visual proportion of the vehicle is further accentuated with the introduction of three new alloy wheel designs – two 17” (FR, Xcellence and Xcellence Lux trims) and one 18” option (FR Sport). There is a 15” alloy and 16” machined alloy wheel also available (SE and SE Technology respectively).
Another indication of the Ibiza’s update is the inclusion of model’s name in embossed handwritten lettering. Additionally, the SEAT logo is finished in two-tone chrome – matte on the front fascia and gloss finish on the borders.
SEAT Ibiza is now available in a range of nine colours, including two new finishes: Sapphire Blue and Asphalt Blue.
The SEAT Ibiza’s interior represents a design and technology revolution. New materials and technology systems improves its dynamic character with a greater level of perceived quality.
The new floating central infotainment system display is the heartbeat of the digital core. The screen has increased in size by more than 20 per cent compared to its predecessor – the standard screen is now 8.25” (SE trim only) – with the larger 9.2” screen on SE Technology models and above. In addition, its higher position in the cabin – at the driver’s eye line – improves its ergonomics and ensures it’s safer to operate.
Additionally, a high-resolution 10.25” Digital Cockpit (driver binnacle) on FR Sport and Xcellence Lux models lift the Ibiza’s interior into the digital age.
Improvements have been made throughout; one highlight is the completely new soft dashboard, as well as the new ergonomic multifunction Nappa leather steering wheel, which deliver a greater level of refinement.
The use of lighting technology adds to the Ibiza’s personality. The driver and passenger air vents have been redesigned and the surrounds now illuminate (LED technology) – Honey (SE trim), Daring Red (FR) and Burgundy (Xcellence).
The boot space’s total capacity remains at 355 litres, making it one of the best in class, and accessing the space is easy with a low loading height.
Under the bonnet, the new SEAT Ibiza will offer a trio of three-cylinder petrol powertrains; an 80PS, 95PS and 110PS model.
The entry three-cylinder 1.0 litre MPI petrol engine is matched to a five-speed manual transmission. The unit’s multi-point injection system helps the engine deliver excellent response at low-to-mid engine speeds, while the 80PS power output and 93Nm of torque mean that it offers enough to handle the demands of modern-day driving.
Direct-injection technology is used throughout the rest of the engine line-up, with two 1.0 EcoTSI options available.
The 1.0 EcoTSI 95PS (70kW) unit, linked to a five-speed manual transmission, provides 175Nm of torque. The final unit delivers 110PS / 200Nm and is linked to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission.
