SEAT Ibiza

They’ve learned their lesson at SEAT! Just weeks after our spy photograph­ers caught the all-new Ibiza five-door being put through its paces, here’s the sporty three-door – but this time hidden by masking panels.

We spotted the supermini on the road in Spain. But the one thing the plastic and gaffer tape can’t hide is its compact proportions. Sharing its platform with the next VW Polo, the new Ibiza is bigger than the current car.

On the outside, the supermini will get a more grown-up look, thanks to sculpted flanks with a pronounced waistline. The grille is bigger, and the headlamps are inspired by those on the Tribu SUV concept. At the back, neat multi-lens light clusters will feature a distinctive semi-circular pattern.

Power will come from at least four unleaded units, including VW’s clever turbo and supercharged 1.4-litre TSI. A hot Cupra version is likely to get a new 1.8-litre TSI, as well as uprated suspension and a sporty interior.

An ultra-frugal ECOmotive variant will also be made. Aerodynamic tweaks, revised gearing and an uprated diesel engine will not only ensure this car is the most economical in the range, but also give it low CO2 emissions.

The new Ibiza is due to appear in UK showrooms in 2009. First up will be the more practical five-door, with the three-door arriving shortly after.