It may not look much different but there has been plenty of work done to improve the new SEAT Ibiza writes Hannah Gordon
What is it? The fourth generation Ibiza is being released after just celebrating its 30th birthday this year. The Ibiza is Seat’s most recognisable and popular model, and although the changes aren’t instantly recognisable from the outside plenty of work has been done on the engines, suspension and interior.
First Impressions of the New Seat Ibiza? The Ibiza sits itself in an extremely competitive market with the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Opel Corsa, with the new engines available and the customisation choices it should be a hit with the youngsters. The space available in the ST (Tourer) version lends itself to becoming a spacious family car.
What about the styling?Subtle changes have been made to the exterior, mainly due to customers already giving the Ibiza’s exterior the thumbs up. Seat have gone along with the philosophy “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” so have instead gone down the customisation route that allows buyers to personalise there Ibiza with different colour packs and special models. The Connect range also comes with blue and grey headlights whilst the SE range and above have LED lights. The Seat Ibiza styling is still as sharp as ever and remains an eye catching presence on the road it also offers 3 body styles including the SC (Sport Coupe), 5 door and the ST (Sports Tourer).
What about inside? More noticeable changes have happened in the cabin, ideas have been taken from its big brother the Leon and used in improving the layout of the Ibiza’s interior. There is a new instrument cluster, dash design, steering wheel and the upholstery has been improved. The infotainment system in the Ibiza is one of the best on the market including ‘Full Link’ which enables the driver to connect an Apple or Android device and have greater control over the smart phones functions. There is also DAB and Bluetooth available. Space in the rear for passengers is a bit limited but the boot space is for the SC and 5 door is 292 litres, for extra space the tourer is an ideal choice with 430 litres of space available.
On the Seat Ibiza road? The new Seat Ibiza has come with revised suspension and steering, the steering now has a speed sensitive electric system. The suspension has been re-tuned to give a it dynamic performance and the fourth generation Ibiza has a longer wheelbase and wider track than the previous model for better stability. The ride is settled and comfortable on most terrains and absorbs uneven surfaces well. The steering feels a bit light and doesn’t provide much feedback, especially when taking a faster corner.
How much? Prices for the new Ibiza start at €13,080
How safe? The Ibiza comes with airbags, Automatic Warning Lights and Hill Hold Control all as standard and as with all new cars now there is a Tyre Pressure Monitoring system fitted as standard.
What are my Options? Four trims are available on the Ibiza SC and standard on the entry level S trim is ABS & ESC, Electric & Heater Door mirrors, Media system touch and a Height adjustable drive seat. The SE Trim adds Cornering front Fog lights, Hill hold, 15” Alloy Wheels “Marsala” and Smart Connect Pack (5” colour touch screen radio, Aux-in, Bluetooth). Trade up to the Sport trim and gain Dark tinted windows in rear, Rear LED lights, Air-con, Electronics pack (auto dimming mirror, electrically folding and heated mirrors, DTRL with coming home function, Rain sensor), Leather steering wheel, gear knob, and hand brake, 16” alloy wheels “Cartago” and Door handles in body colour. The top of the range FR Trim adds Twin visible exhausts, Drivers pack (tiredness detection, cruise control), FR specific trims (steering wheel, gear knob, hand brake, FR sports seats, Bumpers) 17” Alloy Wheels “Tagus” and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights
3 words to describe the Seat Ibiza? Smart, Spacious; Snazzy
For more information check out Seat.ie the Seat Facebook page or follow them on twitter here.
Hannah Gordon
1st December, 2015
