Our Mitsubishi Space Star 1.9 diesel was ageing (nine years old) and was starting to cost money, so the time had arrived where we had to think of a replacement. Mitsubishi do not have a car in their range that is suitable for us and another minus is that spare parts are very expensive. Living in Spain, we thought that we would look at the "local" manufacturer but before doing so we hired several cars - Seat Ibiza, Renault Megane, Citroen C3 and C4, Fiat Punto Eco, Ford Focus. All diesel. In May this year, after considerable deliberation, we purchased a Seat Ibiza ST 1.6 diesel. With varied driving conditions - short journeys plus motorway trips of 200kms+, we have used:

40.7 litres diesel over 748 kms; 38.6 litres diesel over 718 kms; 42.1 litres over 789 kms. Travelling a total of 2255 kms on121.4 litres of diesel in comfort!

The major minus point is the lack of any spare wheel (a severe problem with so many new cars nowadays) and had the Seat agent not offered to provide one free of charge, together with a jack, we would not have bought it. After seven weeks ownership, we have found no reason to be unhappy with our purchase. With an additional two years warranty (four years in total,) 3,000 Euros discount and with a one third deposit, the balance over three years with interest free credit, what is there not to like? No other car agent offered anything to compare. The fuel economy is an additional pleasant surprise. Next year we shall be changing my partner's car and we both are convinced that another Seat will join us.