The Ibiza has been SEAT’s best-loved model for many years, and with the fifth generation all-new Ibiza the best has just got better. On sale from 1 May 2002, the new Ibiza comes in three- and five-door hatchback versions, with four equipment levels (Ibiza 1.2, S, SE and Sport), and five engines to choose from. Prices start at just £7995 on the road for the Ibiza 1.2 rising to £13495 for the top of the range Ibiza TDi 130 bhp Sport.
Totally new from the ground up the Ibiza’s distinctive, modern look, reminiscent of recent SEAT concept cars, disguises the fact that it is longer, wider and higher than its predecessor. It is actually one of the largest cars in its class and all this extra space has been converted into comfort with more front and rear passenger legroom, shoulder room and a bigger boot. The stylish design is complemented by sporty performance and driving pleasure delivered through new engines and gearboxes, SEAT’s “agile chassis” and exceptional specification levels. The new Ibiza features five power plants, three petrol and two diesel, ranging from a new 1.2 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine to the most powerful diesel engine available in any supermini, the 1.9 130 bhp TDi linked to a 6-speed gearbox. Twin airbags, radio-CD player, electric windows, electro-hydraulic power steering, remote central locking, immobiliser, pollen filter and height and reach adjustable steering wheel are just some of the items that are standard across the entire range. In addition, air conditioning is standard in all models except the entry level Ibiza 1.2.
But the new Ibiza has not sacrificed safety for style and performance. This is reflected in its low insurance group ratings, which range from just group 2 to group 7. As well as the new high strength steel passenger safety cell body, a host of safety features has been built into standard specification. For example, twin airbags and pretensioned front seat belts, collapsible steering column and pedal box, two ISOFIX child seat mountings in the rear seat.
Continuing with the child safety theme, the new Ibiza is the only car in its class to boast a key switchable passenger airbag as standard. Front side airbags are standard on Sport models and available as an option on others. The new “agile chassis” is itself an active safety feature, giving more precise roadholding, sharper handling and greater driver feedback which all aid car control. This is all backed up by ABS, traction control and a new feature, emergency brake assist, which automatically applies maximum brake force if it detects emergency braking by the driver.
New engines and specifications
Ibiza and Ibiza S
The new range starts with the Ibiza 1.2 powered by the 1.2 litre 3-cylinder 64 bhp petrol engine coupled to a 5-speed gearbox. Although a smaller capacity, this engine is both more frugal, more powerful and has a higher top speed than the comparable 1.4 litre engine available in its predecessor. It produces 4 bhp more and delivers almost 5 mpg more
(47.1 mpg combined figure) and top speed is 103 mph. As well as all the standard items already mentioned the Ibiza 1.2 has tinted windows, interior adjustable door mirrors, radio-CD with 8 speakers, and runs on 14″ steel wheels with trims. The three-door Ibiza 1.2 is priced at a highly competitive £7995 on the road.
The same 1.2 litre engine is also available in the next model up, the Ibiza S. Specification is exactly the same as Ibiza 1.2, but with the important addition of AutoClima air conditioning. The Ibiza S also has the option of diesel power by the highly acclaimed 1.9 TDi 100 bhp diesel engine, which is also available in SE models.
Ibiza SE
Ibiza SE is for those looking for comfort to match the style. Additional equipment over the
S model includes the more advanced Climatronic air conditioning, on board computer, height adjustable front seats with Access-Plus passenger seat in three-door models, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, ABS and alarm. 15″ alloys, double headlamps, foglamps and body coloured door handles all further enhance the Ibiza SE’s dynamic new look. There is a choice of engines too; a 1.9 litre turbo diesel and a 1.4 litre 16V petrol. The 1.9 TDi engine is an advanced pumpe duse unit with outstanding torque which guarantees flexibility of performance. It achieves 0-62 mph in 10.8 seconds, a top speed of 118 mph and a very economical combined fuel consumption figure of 56 mpg. The petrol option, the 1.4 16V engine delivers 75 bhp, a top speed of 108 mph, 0-62 in 13.2 seconds and 43 mpg on the combined cycle.
Ibiza Sport
Sport versions are where the Ibiza really gets a chance to demonstrate its personality and capabilities. The Sport designation speaks for itself in its driver appeal and has a specification to match. Available only in three-door format to preserve the coupe styling, Sport spec includes ABS, traction control, on board computer, alarm, Access-Plus front passenger seat, double headlamps and foglamps and side airbags. The interior offers true sports styling with sports seats front and rear (2), leather steering wheel, handbrake and gear knob and special white dials on the instrument panel. 16″ alloys with low profile tyres complete the exterior picture. But it’s the engines that set this car apart. A choice of either the 1.4 16V 100 bhp petrol engine, or, the star performer and most powerful diesel engine available in this class, the 1.9 TDi 130 bhp. Linked to a 6-speed gearbox, this exceptional engine has a top speed of 129 mph, reaches 62 mph from a standstill in 9.4 seconds, but still manages to deliver a stunning 55 mpg average fuel consumption. The Ibiza Sport TDi brings a whole new concept to the supermini class, the hot diesel. Even so, this top of the range Ibiza, priced at £13495, still only attracts an insurance group rating of 7.
Warranties and Service
The quality of build and the components and techniques used, including laser welding and the use of fully galvanised steel, mean that the new Ibiza attracts exceptional warranties and extended service intervals.
SEAT Ibizas are covered by a 24 month unlimited mileage warranty and a further third year warranty provided the car has not covered more than 60,000 miles.
The body is guaranteed for 12 years against corrosion perforation. Paint is guaranteed for
3 years against manufacturing defects.
SEAT Ibizas are also covered for 3 years by SEAT Assistance, a comprehensive roadside assistance and recovery service which includes European cover.
Inspection services including oil change are required at 10,000 miles or annually. The major service interval is 20,000 miles.
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