SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) Review

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) At A Glance

3/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The SEAT Ibiza is a fashionable alternative to the Volkswagen Polo. It's cheap to run and represents good value for money to buy.

+Cheap to run. five star Euro NCAP rating, clear and simple dash layout. Facelifted with improved engine range from spring 2012.

-Wind noise at higher speeds, starting to feel dated inside.

Insurance Groups are between 3–23
On average it achieves 82% of the official MPG figure

SEAT’s Ibiza found top form when this generation was launched in 2008 in hatch, SC three-door and estate forms. Straight away, the Spaniard put itself into contention with the very best the supermini class had to offer at the time in the shape of the Ford Fiesta and the Ibiza’s cousin, the Volkswagen Polo. It might not have found quite as many buyers as these two class leaders, but the Ibiza was more than good enough to tempt plenty with its mix of fun driving manners, frugal engines and roomy cabins. All this and it was well equipped too.

SEAT made a great job of the Ibiza launched in 2008 to push itself right into the heart of the supermini eco-system. Using the Volkswagen Polo as a base was always going to be a brilliant place to start and SEAT built on this by divvying up the Ibiza into three distinct lines under the same umbrella.

These three versions consisted of the SC coupe-like three-door hatch, a roomy ST estate and the five-door hatch. It’s the hatch that was the mainstay of the range to take on the might of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa.

While the Ibiza’s sales figures were not quite in the same league as these two giants of the small car market, it was the best-selling model in the SEAT range. It’s easy to see why when you consider you had the underpinnings of a Polo at a keener price. It’s much the same story with this Ibiza in the used market.

The Ibiza is also well equipped and has some of the lowest running costs in its sector, especially if you opt for the Ecomotive model that delivers 92g/km CO2 emissions and 80.7mpg combined economy. Even by today’s standards, this model makes for cost-effective ownership.

As well as its financial appeal, the Ibiza scores with its crisp styling that helps it stand out from the crowd in a busy car park. SEAT is also not shy when it comes to offering diversity in the trim line-up, though the five-door model foregoes the most rapid Cupra edition that took on the Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS and Vauxhall Corsa VXR.

Inside, it’s a good place to spend any journey, though those travelling in the back may find space a little cramped. Even so, the SEAT Ibiza is a handsome and able hatch with a wide choice of engines, trims and well judged pricing that should see it on most buyers’ shortlists.

SEAT launched the revised Ibiza in mid-2012 and it's available with a new Portable Media System with a touchscreen display that includes a navigation system, on-board computer and Bluetooth. It is fully integrated with the Ibiza's electronics and is also removable for using on the move.

On top of all this, the SEAT Ibiza is also one of the better cars in its class to drive. From the start, it always felt a little more taut and livelier that the Polo with which it shared so many of its raw components. The Spanish firm seemed to have the knack of making the Ibiza more fun to drive while also introducing better ride control to give it a small but significant comfort advantage over its German cousin.

This makes the 2008-2017 Ibiza a very sound choice now for anyone looking for a comfortable, affordable and good looking supermini.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) handling and engines

Driving Rating
The SEAT Ibiza impresses with its balance between comfort and handling.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Handling and ride quality

It strikes a very happy middle ground that feels agile in the corners yet to smooch along barbed road surfaces with composure.

On quicker roads, the Ibiza is not upset by crosswinds. Around town, it weaves through traffic easily thanks to its direct steering and tight turning circle.

Some might find the Ibiza is not quite as engaging to drive as a Ford Fiesta, but then SEAT addressed this in the hatch with the sportier FR model. It comes with larger alloy wheels, which do not upset the ride while adding to its cornering ability. In many ways, the FR is a better resolved sporting model than the SC Cupra which has a much harder ride.

As for stopping power, the Ibiza has strong brakes with ABS anti-locking as standard on all models.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Engines

SEAT was nothing if not comprehensive in its engine line-up with this third generation Ibiza. There’s the 70PS 1.2-litre petrol and a 75PS 1.0-litre motor that are both short on puff. A 1.4-litre petrol with 85PS and 1.6-litre with 102PS, are okay but have high emissions.

Most Ibiza drivers are better served by the excellent 105PS 1.2 TSI that arrived in early 2012 with five-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Alternatively, you could have the 1.0 EcoTSI engine in 95- and 110PS outputs.

There is also a 60PS non-turbo 1.2 petrol engine or you could have a 1.4 TSI with turbo and supercharging to give 150PS in the FR model.

SEAT offered the 80PS 1.4 TDi turbodiesel, but much better is the 105PS 1.6 TDI that pitched up in mid-2009. Even better yet is the three-cylinder 1.4-litre that arrived at the same time. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel was a slow seller.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Safety

The SEAT Ibiza gained a five-star Euro NCAP at its launch. Every Ibiza comes with twin front and side airbags as standard, but additional curtain airbags had to be selected from the options list. However, every model has ESC traction and stability control. Every occupant gets a three-point seat belt and there are Isofix child seat mounts.

In 2015, SEAT added Multi-Collision Brake that helped to slow the car safely after an impact. It also added Tiredness Recognition to spot if the driver was beginning to feel drowsy and flash up a warning to pull in and have a rest.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.0 75 54 mpg 14.3 s 118 g/km
1.0 EcoTSI 110 64 mpg 9.3 s 102 g/km
1.0 EcoTSI 95 67 mpg 10.4 s 94–98 g/km
1.0 EcoTSI DSG 110 64 mpg 9.3 s 102 g/km
1.2 52 mpg 13.9 s 125 g/km
1.2 TDI 72 mpg 13.9 s 102 g/km
1.2 TDI Ecomotive 81 mpg 13.9 s 92 g/km
1.2 TSI 55 mpg 9.8 s 119 g/km
1.2 TSI 105 55 mpg 9.8 s 119 g/km
1.2 TSI 110 54 mpg 9.1 s 119 g/km
1.2 TSI 90 58 mpg 10.7 s 116 g/km
1.2 TSI DSG 53 mpg 9.7 s 124 g/km
1.2 TSI DSG 105 53 mpg 9.7 s 124 g/km
1.4 46–48 mpg 11.8–12.2 s 139–149 g/km
1.4 EcoTSI 59 mpg 7.6 s 110 g/km
1.4 TDI 66–72 mpg 9.9–13.1 s 95–114 g/km
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 72–79 mpg 12.9–13.0 s 88–101 g/km
1.4 TSI ACT 60 mpg 7.8 s 109 g/km
1.4 TSI DSG 48 mpg 7.6 s 139 g/km
1.6 45 mpg 10.5 s 149 g/km
1.6 DSG 49 mpg 10.1 s 139 g/km
1.6 TDI 66 mpg 10.5 s 112 g/km
1.9 TDI 60 mpg 10.4 s 124 g/km
2.0 TDI 60 mpg 8.2 s 123 g/km

Real MPG average for the SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

82%

Real MPG

26–78 mpg

MPGs submitted

472

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) interior

Interior Rating
The driver gets a very good deal in the SEAT Ibiza thanks to a steering wheel that moves for both depth and angle.
Dimensions
Length 4052–4082 mm
Width 1693 mm
Height 1441–1445 mm
Wheelbase 2469 mm

Full specifications

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Practicality

Allied to this is a seat that adjusts for height, so all together it’s very easy to find the right seating position no matter how tall you are.

SEAT also finds a good amount of room for the front occupants’ heads and shoulders, so you don’t feel like you’re stuffed into a small car. The driver gets good vision in every direction, even over the left shoulder to make it easier to place the Ibiza when nipping through town traffic and change lane on the motorway.

Children won’t have a problem with rear seat space and there’s a pair of Isofix child seat mounts attach kiddy chairs rigidly in place. With the rear seats in use, the SEAT Ibiza hatch offers a more than decent 292-litres of luggage space in the boot.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Quality and finish

There may be quite a few different textures and finishes used for the SEAT Ibiza’s plastics, but they are solid and firmly fixed in place, so there are not the squeaks and creaks that can mar some of the Ibiza’s rivals’ cabins.

It’s a shame the same concise and clear design is not applied to the ventilation controls. They are logical enough to use thanks to clear markings, but the identically-sized small buttons arranged around the digital display means you have to take your eyes off the road for that split second longer than in some of the SEAT’s rivals with more intuitive rotary dials.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Infotainment

The Ibiza Toca came with SEAT’s Portable System from 2013 which was a removable and lightweight screen that clipped into a docking station on top of the dash. In this central position, it was easy to see and read, if not the easiest to reach for the driver.

Using the Portable System is easy and it comes with Bluetooth, satellite navigation and audio streaming. There’s also a microSD card slot for music, trip computer and a 5-inch screen. The 

Technology trims improved this with a 6.5-inch touchscreen with nav and better phone integration, though most buyers will find their smartphone is a better bet now.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) value for money

Value for Money Rating
The SEAT Ibiza is a cost-effective choice for young drivers or anyone looking for an affordable small car.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Prices

Early examples of the SEAT Ibiza five-door hatch can be found in good condition and with reasonable miles on the clock from £1800.

An early three-door SC model in SE spec with the 1.4-litre petrol engine and 80,000 miles to its name will cost from £2500. Choose a five-door instead and you’ll pay exactly the same but have greater choice with the much more numerous hatch. Opt for the estate and it will require a further £500 as prices begin about the £3000 mark.

Move forward to a revised Ibiza from 2012 and there’s a wide choice in SE trim from £4000. That’s for a five-door hatch or SC, while the estate version again commands a small premium of around £500.

The better equipped Toca model with the 1.4-litre petrol engine and £4500 will bag you a six-year old car with 50,000 miles on the dials. We’re also fans of the 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, so £4000 seems fair value for a seven-year old model in five-door hatch form. That will get you an SE model.

Or you could choose a later car from towards the end of this Ibiza’s production life. Take this route and there’s a big selection at the £8000 upper budget you’ll need. These cars will come with the Technology pack and be very well equipped whether you opt for a petrol or diesel engine.

SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017): Running Costs

The SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TDI Ecomotive claimed a combined consumption of 80.7mpg, though Real MPG figures show it achieves 62.7mpg in mixed driving.

Best of the petrols is the 1.0 TSI with 95PS that has a claimed economy of 67.3mpg, which comes out at 55.0mpg in Real MPG calculations.

A SEAT Ibiza with the 70PS 1.2 petrol sits in a very low group 3 for insurance. Our preferred 1.2 TSI SE model attracts a group 12 banding.

The most expensive five-door hatch to get cover for is, unsurprisingly, the quickest in the shape of the 1.4 TSI 150 in FR Technology trim. It sits in group 24.

The very last of this generation of SEAT Ibiza registered from 1 April 2017 will pay a flat rate of £150 per year for road tax. Cars registered prior to this vary more, from the free road tax for the 1.0 Eco TSI 95PS petrol and 1.2 TDI Ecomotive turbodiesel thanks to their sub-100g/km carbon dioxide emissions to the high of the 1.6-litre petrol that emits 149g/km to cost you £165 each year.

For the 1.2 TSI 105 that is a popular choice, it produces 119g/km to come in with a yearly Vehicle Excise Duty tariff of £30.

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SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) models and specs

The SEAT Ibiza started with the S that has electric front windows, CD stereo with MP3 connection and aux-in socket.

The SE improved with electrically adjusted and heated door mirrors, electric rear windows, cruise control, air conditioning, and 15-inch alloy wheels. Sport models came with 16-inch alloys, sports suspension, and sports front seats.

There was also the option of a Convenience Pack with rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, Hill Hold Control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Ecomotive models have low rolling-resistance tyres, closed front grille, revised rear spoiler, and a puncture repair kit in place of the spare wheel.

In 2011, SEAT introduced the Copa trim with cruise control, uprated CD stereo and electric windows all round. The FR has climate control and 17-inch alloy wheels, while Toca models gain the Portable System infotainment with5-inch touchscreen, sat-nav, Bluetooth and audio streaming. In mid-2014, SEAT added the I-TECH with 16-inch alloy wheels and dark blue cloth and leather upholstery.

Dimensions
Length 4052–4082 mm
Width 1693 mm
Height 1441–1445 mm
Wheelbase 2469 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1025–1254 kg
Boot Space 270–554 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 10000–18000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Tyre-repair kit
Alternative Space-saving spare wheel
Costs
List Price £11,395–£18,255
Insurance Groups 3–23
Road Tax Bands A–F
Official MPG 44.8–80.7 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult 5
Child 3
Pedestrian 3
Overall -

On sale until November 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.0 75ps S Air Con 5dr £12,210 54.3 mpg 14.3 s
1.0 75ps SE 5dr £13,105 54.3 mpg 14.3 s
1.0 75ps SE Technology 5dr £14,035 54.3 mpg 14.3 s
1.0 75ps Sol 5dr £13,120 54.3 mpg 14.3 s
1.0 75ps Vista 5dr £13,445 54.3 mpg 14.3 s
1.0 EcoTSI 110ps FR DSG 5dr £16,140 64.2 mpg 9.3 s
1.0 EcoTSI 110ps FR Technology DSG 5dr £17,080 64.2 mpg 9.3 s
1.0 EcoTSI 95ps SE 5dr £14,055 67.3 mpg 10.4 s
1.0 EcoTSI 95ps SE Technology 5dr £14,945 67.3 mpg 10.4 s
1.2 TSI 110ps FR 5dr £14,935 54.3 mpg 9.1 s
1.2 TSI 110ps FR Red Edition 5dr £15,735 54.3 mpg 9.1 s
1.2 TSI 110ps FR Red Edition Technology 5dr £16,695 54.3 mpg 9.1 s
1.2 TSI 110ps FR Technology 5dr £15,895 54.3 mpg 9.1 s
1.2 TSI 90ps Connect 5dr £14,700 57.6 mpg 10.7 s
1.2 TSI 90ps FR 5dr £14,445 57.6 mpg 10.7 s
1.2 TSI 90ps FR Technology 5dr £15,405 57.6 mpg 10.7 s
1.2 TSI 90ps SE 5dr £13,555 57.6 mpg 10.7 s
1.2 TSI 90ps SE Technology 5dr £14,485 57.6 mpg 10.7 s
1.4 EcoTSI 150ps FR 5dr £16,695 58.9 mpg 7.6 s
1.4 EcoTSI 150ps FR Technology 5dr £17,655 58.9 mpg 7.6 s
1.4 TDI 105ps FR 5dr £17,335 72.4 mpg 9.9 s
1.4 TDI 105ps FR Technology 5dr £18,255 72.4 mpg 9.9 s
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 75 SE Technology 5dr £16,545 78.5 mpg 13.0 s
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 75ps S Air Con 5dr £14,760 72.4 mpg 12.9 s
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 75ps SE 5dr £15,655 78.5 mpg 13.0 s
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 75ps Sol 5dr £15,630 78.5 mpg -

On sale until April 2017

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.4 TDI Ecomotive 75ps Sol 5dr £15,510 78.5 mpg -

On sale until October 2015

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
FR 1.2 TSI 105 5dr £14,740 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
FR 1.2 TSI DSG Auto 105 5dr £15,835 53.3 mpg 9.7 s
FR 1.4 TSI ACT 140 5dr £16,045 60.1 mpg 7.8 s
FR 1.6 TDI CR 105 5dr £16,460 65.7 mpg 10.5 s
FR Black 1.2 TSI 105 5dr £15,540 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
FR Black 1.4 TSI ACT 140 5dr £16,845 60.1 mpg 7.8 s
I-TECH 1.2 TSI 105 5dr £14,340 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
S a/c 1.2 12v 70 5dr £11,960 52.3 mpg 13.9 s
S a/c 1.2 TDI CR 75 5dr £13,855 72.4 mpg 13.9 s
S a/c 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 75 5dr £14,380 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 75 5dr £14,910 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE 1.2 TSI DSG Auto 105 5dr £14,735 53.3 mpg 9.7 s
SE 1.4 16v 85 5dr £13,095 47.9 mpg 11.8 s
SE 1.6 TDI CR 105 5dr £15,460 65.7 mpg 10.5 s
Toca 1.4 16v 85 5dr £13,420 47.9 mpg 11.8 s

On sale until January 2015

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
FR 2.0 TDI CR 143 5dr £17,635 60.1 mpg 8.2 s

On sale until November 2014

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
FR Edition 1.4 TSI ACT 140 5dr £16,660 60.1 mpg 7.8 s

On sale until September 2013

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
FR 1.4 TSI DSG 5dr Auto £16,985 47.9 mpg 7.6 s

On sale until February 2012

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S Copa 1.2 12v 5dr £11,635 52.3 mpg 13.9 s
S Copa 1.2 TDI CR 5dr £13,550 72.4 mpg 13.9 s
S Copa 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 5dr £14,200 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE Copa 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 5dr £14,940 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE Copa 1.2 TSI DSG 5dr Auto £14,345 53.3 mpg 9.7 s
SE Copa 1.4 16v 5dr £12,805 47.9 mpg 11.8 s
Sportrider 1.2 TSI 5dr £14,200 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
Sportrider 1.4 16v 5dr £13,125 47.9 mpg 11.8 s
Sportrider 1.6 TDI CR 5dr £14,790 65.7 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until June 2011

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 1.2 12v 5dr £11,425 52.3 mpg 13.9 s
S 1.2 TDI CR 5dr £13,340 72.4 mpg 13.9 s
S 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 5dr £13,900 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE 1.2 TDI CR Ecomotive 5dr £14,545 80.7 mpg 13.9 s
SE 1.2 TSI 5dr £13,580 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
SE 1.2 TSI DSG 5dr Auto £14,045 53.3 mpg 9.7 s
SE 1.4 16v 5dr £12,405 47.9 mpg 11.8 s
Sport 1.2 TSI 5dr £13,900 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
Sport 1.4 16v 5dr £12,575 47.9 mpg 11.8 s
Sport 1.6 TDI CR 5dr £14,355 65.7 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until November 2010

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE 1.6 16v DSG Auto 5dr £13,410 48.7 mpg 10.1 s
Sport 1.6 16v 5dr £12,795 44.8 mpg 10.5 s

On sale until June 2010

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Ecomotive 1.4 TDI 5dr £13,200 76.3 mpg 12.9 s
S 1.4 TDI £12,305 65.7 mpg 13.1 s

On sale until July 2009

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Sport Black 1.4 16v 5dr £12,560 45.6 mpg 12.2 s

On sale until May 2009

Hatchback
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 1.4 TDI 5dr £11,395 65.7 mpg 12.9 s
Sport 1.9 TDI 5dr £12,285 60.1 mpg 10.4 s

Model History

April 2008

New Ibiza announced

The new car offers a variety of options such as the availability of a new seven-speed DSG automatic/sequential manual gearbox, Hill Hold Assist, front fog lights with side illumination (cornering) function and combined AUX-IN/USB connectivity for all manner of music devices. Improved rear seat legroom and a significantly larger and more practical boot space at 292 litres.

Sitting on a new version of the renowned Ibiza Agile Chassis, with wider front and rear tracks (30 mm and 33 mm respectively) the new car looks and feels even more planted, and delivers both a composed ride and class-leading, sporty handling.

Three petrol engine options: 1.2-litre chain cam three cylinder 70 PS; flexible 1.4-litre chain cam 85 PS four cylinder or sporty 1.6-litre chain cam four cylinder 102 PS. All with five-speed manual gearbox, and all have undergone engineering modifications to ensure emissions fall comfortably below 160 g/km. Direct-injection TDI Ibiza five-doors arriving later. New head and thorax-focused front side airbags, and the extensive availability of ESP and TCS.

October 2008

Ibiza Ecomotive revealed

The green Ibiza has an official CO2 emissions figure of just 99g/km and qualifies for free VED. Available in both 5dr and SC versions, the Ibiza Ecomotive is equipped with a clean and frugal 80 PS 1.4 TDI engine with DPF diesel particulate filter. Its notably low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are achieved through engine software modifications, as well as enhancements to the gearbox and gear ratios, the fitment of new 175/70 R14 low rolling-resistance tyres and the substitution of the spare wheel for a puncture kit. New closed front grille and revised rear spoiler which combine to reduce air resistance.

February 2009

New Black special edition Ibiza. Based on the Ibiza 5dr 1.4 Sport the Ibiza Black has unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, striking tailgate roof spoiler, arch-filling 17 alloys, dark tinted rear windows and Black Magic metallic paint Priced at £12,345 RRP.

Air conditioning, sports seats, electric windows all round, six-speaker radio/MP3-compatible CD with steering column-mounted remote controls and Aux-in socket, leather steering wheel and gearknob, body-coloured heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, trip computer and integrated front fog lights with cornering function are also part of the Ibiza Blacks standard fit kit. 1.4-litre 85 PS petrol engine mated to a smooth and precise five-speed manual gearbox. A top speed of 108 mph and 0-62 mph time of 12.2 seconds sits alongside combined CO2 emissions of just 149 g/km and impressive combined fuel economy of 45.6 mpg. Low insurance group 3E.

May 2009

New 105PS belt cam 1.6-litre common rail four cylinder TDI arrived Summer 2009. It sits alongside the all-new Ibiza Ecomotive, which is powered by a super-frugal 1.4-litre three cylinder TDI which, like the 1.6-litre TDI CR, boasts a diesel particulate filter (DPF) as standard.

April 2011

SEAT introduces new Ibiza Copa. The new trim level is launched in all three Ibiza bodystyles – sporty 3dr SC, practical 5dr and capacious ST estate – in one designation, SE Copa, and with a simple choice between two of the most popular engines, 1.4 16V petrol or 1.2 TDI CR turbodiesel.

These features come in addition to the standard Ibiza SE’s medley of equipment which features the likes of cruise control, six-speaker MP3 compatible radio/CD with AUX-in and steering column-mounted controls, alarm, immobiliser and electric windows all round.

Ibiza SE Copa prices start at a highly competitive £11,995 RRP for the SC version.

January 2012

Announcement of improvements from Spring 2012

The t rapezoidal grille has flatter proportions and the horizontal honeycomb structure of the grille and the lower air intake emphasise the car's width. The bumpers front and rear have been redesigned, with a look that is particularly accentuated on the sporty Ibiza FR version. Standard equipment on the FR, and available as an option on other models, are large fog lamps with integrated cornering light.

Headlamps are available in two halogen versions or with optional bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. The DRLs trace the form of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, as do the optional LED rear lights.

Interior detail changes include new design of Climatronic climate control system, new paint surfaces, new instrument binnacle with improved display, significantly larger glove compartment, another now 1-.7 litres.

Range of petrol units extends from economical 1.2-litre 60 PS to1.4 TSI with supercharger and turbocharger. A peak power figure of 150PS and standard-fit DSG transmission give 7.5 second 0-60 and top speed of 132mph. In the new Ibiza, this power unit is now also available in the ST creating an Ibiza ST FR.

Particular efficiency is delivered by the Ibiza 1.2 TSI Ecomotive - a state-of-the-art turbocharged power unit with 105PS it offers a refined drive with its maximum torque of 175 Nm at just 1,550 rpm, yet an EC 55mpg combined with to start/stop.

Ibiza 1.2 TDI E Ecomotive, also with a start/stop system offers EC combined 83mpg, equating to 89g/kmin all bodyshell variants. Yet the compact hi-tech TDI delivers strong performance with its 75 PS and very respectable peak torque of 180 Nm. The sporty Ibiza diesel is the 2.0 TDI with a beefy 143 PS. No competitor in this segment offers such a powerful diesel; no other masters the combination of performance and efficiency so successfully - a top speed of 130 mph comes with an EC combined fuel consumption of 61.4mpg.

As well as five- and six-speed manual gearboxes, a number of engines are offered with DSG transmissions either as standard equipment or as an option. This dual-clutch transmission offers not only the comfort of an automatic but also the extra benefit of better efficiency than a tyorque converter auto.

Precise steering and ESP stability control, as well as the XDS electronic differential lock (on models of 100 PS or more) deliver safety even in difficult driving conditions. A powerful brake system with ABS is a case in point. The new Ibiza runs on wheels ranging in size from 15- to 17-inches and sporting several new designs.

The Ibiza's generous line-up of equipment has also been revised, independent of bodyshell form. The base modelin European markets is Reference. Above it is the Style version, which comes with air conditioning as standard. The Ibiza FR sets particularly sporty characteristics with accentuated design elements front and rear, alloy wheels and a leather-clad steering wheel. And every SEAT can be adapted to suit personal style and individual preferences with an extensive range of colours, options and accessories.

January 2013

SEAT Ibiza Toca editions announced with SEAT Portable touch-screen System .Toca is the Spanish word for ‘touch'. In the Ibiza Toca, buyers get a set of 16-inch ‘Stratos' alloy wheels (up from 15 inches) along with the SEAT Portable System, for a £425 premium over the SE car on which it's based.

The Toca editions are available to order now, with first cars expected to hit the road during early February - and customers buying the Ibiza Toca before April will enjoy huge discounts. The Ibiza Toca editions all receive a £2,705 cut, leaving the three-door (SC) model with an outstanding £9,995 price.

Every Toca edition is loaded with equipment, including air conditioning, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, electric front windows, electronic stability control (ESC), remote central locking, and front fog lights with cornering function (Ibiza Toca only).

The SEAT Portable System packs a deluge of digital driver aids into a lightweight package not much bigger than a cassette box. It includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming, a MicroSD card slot for music storage, and trip computer functions, all controlled via a fool-proof interface on a five-inch touchscreen.

April 2014

Ibiza FR Edition launched

It's powered by a new 140 PS ACT petrol engine that replaces the 150PS 1.4 TSI non-ACT engine in the Ibiza range, offering performance as close as makes no difference (it takes 0.2 seconds longer to hit 62mph) but delivering a 12.2 mpg average efficiency improvement, and 30g/km less CO2 – down to 109g/km.

The result is a car that will hit the 62 mph benchmark in under eight seconds, but is rated at 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle. ACT works by deactivating a two cylinders when not needed, such as braking or coasting, thus saving fuel.

Available with a manual transmission only, the standard 1.4 TSI ACT FR 140 PS is also £1,015 cheaper than the 150PS car it replaces, which came with a DSG automatic gearbox as standard.

The FR Edition, in addition to the usual FR specification, adds red seatbelts, red brake callipers, titanium-coloured 17-inch alloy wheels, matching coloured door mirrors, climate control and dark tinted rear windows. The FR Edition costs £15,870.

August 2014

SEAT Ibiza I-TECH 5-door introduced fitting in the range between the Toca and the '30 Years Special' and based on the SE. Has the 1.2 TSI 105 engine, manual 5-speed, 16-inch 'Cartago' alloy wheels with titanium finish and B-pillar I-TECH badges. Inside, has unique dark blue cloth and simil leather upholstery with embossed I-TECH logo plus a set of I-TECH floor mats, key cover and door sill plates.

What to watch out for

20-10-2012:

1 year old, 6,800 mile 1.4 TSI Twincharger engine in FR DSG replaced by SEAT dealer due to excessive oil consumption.

15-12-2012:

Report of total failure of engine in a leased 20,000 mile 60 reg Bocanegra. £4,200 initially demanded of lessee for engine replacement, though SEAT may have later taken responsibility.

11-01-2013:

Warranty on DSG 7 speed dry clutch DQ200 gearbox extended to 5 years or 150,000 kilometres in Russia and China.

30-03-2013:

Another complaint about juddering and vibration from 1.2 TSI DSG, coupled woth poor fuel economy in town of only high 20s to low 30s mpg.

26-05-2013:

Warped discs on 11k mile 2 year old Ibiza 1.2 TSI reqired replacing at cost of £245, not covered by warranty.

03-11-2013:

12,600 mile 2010 Ibiza ST 1.2 TSI DSG reported as starting to use oil after second service at 10k miles. By 12k miles oil light came, dipstick did not register and 2 litres were needed. SEAT said that 0.5 litres per 1,000 miles is normal, but the engine had used twice that.

19-12-2013:

Dealer fitted accessory parking sensors bleep but do not visually show the proximity of the car to objects on the screen of the factory fitted SEAT Garmin Portable Sytem, as promised in the Garmin instruction manual.

22-01-2014:

Report of failure of reverse on 2009 Ibiza DSG, bought at 50,000 miles 5 months previously.

28-01-2014:

Report of EGR failure on 21k mile three year old Ibiza 1.2 TDI Ecomotive.

10-02-2014:

Clogged DPF on used Ibiza 1.6 TDI 3 months after purchase from large independent dealer.

17-02-2014:

Seems that the EGR of the 1.2 litre 3 cylinder TDI EcoMotive engine is choking with carbon after around 3 years and around 20,000 miles. Appears to be an expensive design flaw in this engine because the EGR is not a separate component. It shares its casing with a heat exchanger and so is expensive to change. (Around £1,000 in parts and labour.)

23-02-2014:

SEAT dealers now up to speed to change the synthetic oil in 2012 and 2013 DQ200 7-speed DSGs to mineral oil.

20-10-2014:

Repeated battery failures in a 2009 SEAT Ibiza. New battery fitted, failed after 2 months, replacement battery fitted under battery warranty but car continued to suffer a drain od 0.25 - 0.5 amps. Not the radio or the lightswitch because these were turned off. Eventually cured by an ECU software update.

02-01-2015:

27k mile 2011 SEAT Ibiza 1.6 TDI DSG suffering juddering and sticking in 7th gear after DSG ECU software upgrade and change of transmission fluid.

15-03-2015:

DSG of 2009 SEAT Ibiza 1.4 refusing to revert to auto after paddles have been used and starting to suffer a shudder from start.

27-04-2015:

Timing chain failure reported on 27,500 SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TSI with full dealer service history. SEAT dealer charged £120 to diagnose and now wants £960 to investigate before considering goodwill claim.

30-08-2015:

2011 SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TSI DSG in same ownership from new needed a timing chain replacement and replacement DSG Mechatronics in 2014. Now the clatter on start up and the issue with the DSG Mechatronics have re-occurred at a mileage of 50,000.

02-10-2015:

Front coil spring failed at the top of the coil on a 2010 SEAT Ibiza.

26-11-2015:

Mechatronics of 2010 SEAT Ibiza SC DSG completely failed on an Ibiza in the Lebanon. This is a Worldwide (but frequently denied) problem with the VAG dry-clutch 7-speed DSG/s-tronic transmission. In an effort to make them maintenance-free they were filled with synthetic fluid on the production line. The problem is that over time and especially in a hot climate, this fluid becomes conductive and fuses the Mechatronics leaving the car with no means of changing gear and thereby no drive. If the car has been fully maintained by a SEAT dealer you may have the basis for a claim against the dealer or against SEAT. There is little point in opening the box and trying to replace the Mechatronics alone. Better a replacement transmission, already filled with mineral rather than synthetic fluid. Google <replacement VAG 7-speed DSGs>.

22-12-2015:

Timing chain of 2011 1.2 litre EA211 TSI engine in SEAT Ibiza replaced under warranty a year ago. Now at 50,000 miles engine is losing compression through the piston rings which are badly worn and the short engine block will need to be replaced at a cost of £4,000 including labour. Same rings problems as EA888 1.8 and 2.0TFSIs.

13-01-2016:

Engine failure of 2011 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TSI 106 DSG at 50,000 miles diagnosed due to piston wear and found by a WarrantyWise engineer to be due to the oil control rings to Pistons 3 and 4 to have been sticking slightly and displaying carbon build up, which he believe to have happened over a period of time, eventually leading to sticking of the oil control rings causing a loss of compression and misfire to the engine. WarrantyWise believes this fault to be progressive and deterioration related and not a sudden failure and as a result is not prepared to cover the repair cost. Though the car has been serviced by a SEAT dealer, if this was LongLife servicing rather than 10,000 mile oil and filter changes it is possible that this and using ordinary 95Ron petrol in a turbo stratified injection engine led to the problem. Reader now hopes that SEAT will make a goodwill contribution.

06-02-2016:

Window winding cables snapped inside the doors of a 2010 SEAT Ibiza, within days of the same thing happening to another reader in a similar age VW Polo.

25-02-2016:

Failure of 7-speed dry clutch DSG after 4 years may not be due solely to synthetic oil causing and internal short leading to fusing of the hydraulic pump motor.

08-07-2016:

Auxiliaries belt of 2011/61 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TDI came off and wrapped itself between the timing belt and lower pulley, knocking out the timing between pistons and valves and wrecking the engine.

18-10-2016:

Report of SEAT Ibiza 1.2TDI Ecomotive losing "a huge amount of power" after the VAG EA198 defeat software upgrade.

15-01-2017:

Report of battery draindown of 2009 SEAT Ibiza 1.4 after 4-5 days. Independent confirmed it had a 3 - 4 amp discharge and told owner "This is a very common problem which requires a software update which can only be undertaken by SEAT."

21-03-2017:

SEAT Ibiza 1.2 had NOx emissions fix in December 2016 but by March 2017 the glow plug system and engine fault have lit up on the dashboard which shows its an emissions problem.

14-04-2017:

Oil pump failure in 2010 SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive 1.4TDI wrote off engine and dealer prive for replacing it economically wrote off the car.

27-10-2017:

Report of cracked cylinder bores in 2010/60 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TSI SE.

31-10-2017:

Report of Mechatronics failing in 2011 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TSI Copa at 52,000 miles. Since service 2 weeks previously had been leaking what is apparently gearbox fluid from the breather cap. Owner thinks transmission fluid had never neen changed from synthetic to mineral. Dealer quoted £1,000 - £2,000 to fix it. Car not now drivable. Eventual price to replaced Mechatronics £1,750.

13-04-2018:

Report of failure of turbo actuator of 2014 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TSI at 50,000 miles. Neither SEAT dealewr not independent specialist can get a delivery date for the replacement part.

14-08-2018:

Report of rattling timing chain in 2015/65 SEAT Ibiza 1.2TSI FR, still under warranty. Dealer reluctant to fix. Engine also starts up with high idle speed and takes a few minutes to settle down and become drivable.

What does the SEAT Ibiza (2008 – 2017) cost?