SEAT Ibiza 1.4 SE

A vast improvement on its predecessor, the new Ibiza has all the attributes of a great supermini. The sharp styling and roomy, well built and modern cabin will win many fans, but the hatch is good to drive, too. The 1.4-litre engine is smooth and while it has to be worked hard, it’s our pick of the line-up. Standard kit is generous, and there is an extensive range of options. This new SEAT is very appealing small car.

Thinking about Ibiza this summer? SEAT hopes you are, as its new Ibiza supermini arrives in July. It’s one of the most exciting launches in the increasingly cut-throat sector, with good looks and an advanced chassis.

We've already driven the 1.6-litre version, and it has plenty to offer. The small-capacity petrol models will be the big sellers, though. There’s a 69bhp 1.2-litre on offer, but the 84bhp 1.4-litre unit we try here is set to be more popular. It’s a better choice than the 1.6, even if it has to be worked hard to deliver its best.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the SEAT Ibiza

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The 1.4 is smooth at high revs, so refinement is impressive for a supermini. Adding to the appeal is the five-speed gearbox. Fitted as stan­dard to all petrol-powered cars, it’s robust and provides slick shifts. The latest Ibiza is the first model to use the VW Group’s new small car platform, which will underpin the next Polo.

As a result, it’s stiffer, wider and longer than the outgoing car, while on the road the driving experience is well rounded. Indeed, the 1.4-litre version feels as grown-up as the 1.6-litre. The electric-hydraulic power-steering is linear and accurate, and the handling is impressively composed.

Although it isn’t as much fun to drive as the Mazda 2, the Ibiza rides well and has plenty of driver appeal, helped by strong brakes and a great seating position. Interior space is excellent, and the boot is only a fraction smaller than that of Skoda’s class-leading Fabia.

To take on the likes of the forthcoming Ford Fiesta and Renault’s latest Clio, SEAT has put the emphasis firmly on uprating the quality. Even the entry-level models are well put together, while the dashboard design is not only modern, but logical and stylish, too. The upgraded materials are complemented by smarter switchgear. Textured materials, piano black audio controls and an attractive three-spoke steering wheel give the SEAT a much sharper edge than the outgoing car.

And the improvements don’t stop there. The optional dash-top docking station for portable sat-navs is a great idea, while other extras include parking sensors, xenon lamps, power-folding door mirrors, heated front seats and Bluetooth phone connectivity.

Although final specs and prices for the UK have yet to be decided, three variants will be available – likely to be named S, SE and Sport. All have air-con, a multifunction steering wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, side airbags, Isofix child seat mountings and remote central locking as stan­dard. Three-door petrol models join the line-up in November, followed by diesels and the sporty FR in 2009. An ultra-frugal ECOmotive variant, with CO2 emissions of 99g/km, is also due next year. But for now at least, the 1.4 is our pick of the range.

Rival: Renault Clio
As with the new SEAT, the Clio has grown up in size and road manners – it’s roomy, with a composed ride and decent handling. Engine and trim choice is wider, although the Renault can’t match the quality or mechanical robustness of the Ibiza.