SEAT Ibiza

Styling/Image

The Ibiza was styled by the former design boss of Lamborghini, so its distinctive looks should come as no surprise. Its heavily creased bodywork and slanted headlamps set the Spanish supermini apart from the competition. Don’t be fooled by the SportCoupe name attached to the three-door model – the even more stylish SC is still a hatchback. Both versions are available in three trim levels – S, SE and Sport.

Interior/Practicality

The cabin feels spacious up front and the driving position is spot on but tall adults will want more headroom in the back and rear legroom is merely average. A big 292-litre boot helps to compensate in five-door guise, and the sporty SC still provides 284-litres. The dashboard is neatly styled but the quality of some plastics is below par – and the contrasting beige colour scheme looks cheap compared to the classy black alternative. Entry-level S models are sparsely equipped, but SE and Sport versions add air-conditioning and alloy wheels.

Engine/Performance

SEAT doesn’t currently offer a diesel engine in the Ibiza, although VW’s tried and tested 1.9TDI will join the range during 2009. For the time being that leaves a choice of 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol units. The smallest unit struggles out of town. Pick the mid-range 1.4-litre powerplant and you’ll get a smooth and refined unit, although performance, fuel economy and emissions are only average compared to its more expensive rivals.

Driving experience

With its precise steering and slick gearshift the Ibiza is perfect for crowded city streets. It’s less adept on twisty backroads, where the light controls don’t really engage with the driver, but the suspension delivers smooth ride comfort and decent composure in the bends. Sport trim features stiffer suspension, which reduces ride comfort without delivering a more involving experience. Keen drivers will just have to wait for the hot FR and Cupra versions, which should serve up an extra dose of involvement

Ownership Costs

Look at the price lists and the SEAT is an appealing package. In like-for-like comparisons with its rivals the Ibiza is typically much cheaper to buy. Five door models command a small premium over their sporty SC stablemates. Fuel economy from its petrol engines is nothing to write home about, although an ECOmotive model should return around 70mpg and CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km when it arrives next year.

Safety/Environment

The Ibiza put in a strong performance during Euro NCAP crash tests and was awarded five stars for occupant protection. Its overall score of 91 is also impressive compared to its supermini peers. However, ESP is only available as an option on all models. The 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engine produce CO2 emissions of 129 and 149g/km respectively, while the more powerful 1.6-litre petrol emits 157g/km.

Our Choice: 1.4 SE five-door