The most successful and best-known SEAT model, the Ibiza, has undergone a profound transformation, both in terms of its exterior styling and its interior design. Although it is not a new generation, it can be considered a new Ibiza since the restyling of its body emphasises its sporty and dynamic characteristics even further. At the same time, its appearance is now more consistent with the rest of the new SEAT range, as it features elements from the Altea, Toledo and León. The new SEAT Ibiza also features major improvements in terms of the look of its interior, which now uses even higher-quality materials. One example is the new trim finish and colours on the dashboard and the door panels. The applies to the upholstery, which is even more up to date and attractive in appearance.
- Significantly restyled exterior, with a higher quality, more attractive interior design that underscores the Ibiza’s dynamic and sporty aspects even further
- A range of 18 versions, including the exclusive, high-performance FR and Cupra, will all be available from launch
- Four distinct suspension settings
Right from launch, the new Ibiza range will comprise five trim levels: Reference, Stylance, Sport, FR and Cupra. The aesthetic transformation of the model is the same for the first three trim levels, except for wheel sizes and minor differences in equipment, while the FR and Cupra feature specific modifications to accentuate their sportier character.
The most significant changes to be seen on the new Ibiza are the new bumpers, new wheels, the colour of the rear light clusters, the twin headlights across the entire range, and visible tailpipe - for versions featuring engines of 100 hp or more. In addition, the “Ibiza” badge is now positioned at the centre of the tailgate beneath the large trademark “S” that doubles as a boot handle, as seen on the latest generation of SEAT models.
Ibiza FR, sportier and more exclusive
The new SEAT Ibiza FR has been given a sportier appearance, both on the outside and on the inside. Thus, the body features a front bumper specific to this model, with a honeycomb grille incorporating enlarged air intakes, while the number plate area is highlighted in black. The design of the rear bumper is also exclusive, and while the name “Ibiza” is now situated on the centre of the hatch as for the other trim levels, the letters “FR” are positioned on the right-hand side. Other particularly distinctive features are the 17″ wheels with a specific design, and double chrome tailpipes.
Adopting elements of style from the Altea FR, the inside of the Ibiza FR boasts a sportier appearance thanks to the seats - which offer excellent lateral support - and the steering wheel, gear stick and upholstery, which are all exclusive to this model. Finally, the stamped metal letters “FR” appear on the lower part of the leather steering wheel, on the gearknob along with the gearshift pattern - also with a metallic finish - and in the centre of the upper part of the front seat backs.
The most potent diesel in its segment and up to 180 hp in petrol engines
The engine range for the new Ibiza line is one of the most complete and wide-ranging on the market, with a choice of 11 engines, including the 75 hp 1.4 16V with manual or automatic gearbox.
It features power units that are well-known and of proven efficiency. The petrol range starts with the 64 hp 1.2, and also includes the 75 hp 1.4 16V, 100 hp 1.4 and the 150 and 180 hp 1.8, which are exclusive to the Ibiza FR and the Ibiza Cupra respectively. All of these engines come with five-speed manual gearboxes.
The outstanding diesel range - which consists of five options, all with direct-injection TDI technology - includes the Cupra’s 1.9 160 hp, the most powerful diesel in the Ibiza’s segment. The other four comprise two economical 1.4 litre and two further high-performing 1.9 litre engines. The 1.4 with 70 and 80hp are the entry-level engines. The mid-range is the 1.9 litre developing 100 hp, while the top end of the range features the 1.9 with 130 hp (for the Ibiza FR) and the Cupra’s 160 hp 1.9. These last two power units come with six-speed manual gearboxes, and the other three engines with five-speed manual gearboxes. All five engines fulfil the Euro IV emissions standard.
A chassis suited to different driving styles
The chassis of the new Ibiza adapts to different needs with four distinct versions according to trim level and driving styles. The Reference and Stylance versions feature a standard chassis that provides comfort and stability; the Sport version goes a step further in effectiveness; the FR version features greater agility and road-handling; and last, but not least, the Cupra version caters to those who seek the high performance of a race car. Although the suspension is essentially the same for all Ibiza models, the spring and shock-absorber settings and the diameter of the anti-roll bars are what distinguishes the various models from each other.
In addition, the model features an electro-hydraulic steering system common to all trim levels, although with three different settings, and naturally ABS is standard across the range. ESP is also standard on the Cupra and optionally available on other versions that generate 70 hp or more.
Made in Spain
The new Ibiza will be manufactured exclusively at the Martorell factory, and the first units will be available in the sales network at the beginning of March.
DESIGN: A new style
- New wrap-around front bumper with honeycomb grille
- Higher quality eye-catching interior trim
- “Ibiza” model name beneath the SEAT logo in the centre of the rear hatch
The SEAT design team’s brief was to revamp the styling of the Ibiza in order to emphasise its dynamic sportiness, following in the footsteps of the latest-generation Altea, Toledo and León models.
This consistency has been achieved by, for example, working on the design of the front bumper, which is now similar to its siblings. Its wraparound styling with honeycomb grille also features redesigned fog lights. But the bumpers are not the same on all five versions in the range - although on the FR the shape is the same, an even sportier look is achieved by the grille with larger air intakes, as well as the partially black background to the number plate area. On the other hand, the Cupra version continues as before, preserving its established sporty appeal.
All the new Ibiza models are now equipped with double headlamps. On the FR and Cupra versions, the interior casing can be painted in either red or yellow (at a later date), in order to match the body colour. The rear light backgrounds are now dark red, except on the FR and Cupra, which maintain their metallic grey look.
The new rear bumpers also stand out, and versions equipped with a 100 hp engine or greater now feature a visible tailpipe. The area surrounding the number-plate is also new, and the rear window wiper is streamlined. Both the FR and Cupra versions feature specific rear bumpers that differentiate them from the rest of the range.
Further novelties include the “Ibiza” badge in the centre of the rear hatch beneath the large “S” that doubles as a boot handle. Its position has been changed from the lower left side to become more prominent. The same badge replaces the word “Cupra” on that version, and the sporty denomination moves to the central B pillars. The “FR” letters on that version are located on the lower right of the rear hatch.
Other significant visual differences among the range include the different wheel sizes, hubcap design, and available alloy rims, as well as the door mirrors and handles. On the Stylance and Sport versions the door mirrors come in the same body colour, while on the FR they are silver, and black “mágico” on the Cupra. The door handles are the same colour as the body on all versions except for Reference, which features black handles and door mirrors.
A more attractive, more youthful interior
At first glance the interior of the new Ibiza seems the same as the one currently on the market, but a closer look reveals significant differences in the quality of the materials used that improve the way it looks and feels.
For example, the trim elements are now softer to the touch, and are either stamped or painted according to the version. Different shades of black, grey and silver are used on the dashboard, instrument panel, central console and door panels. The Stylance, FR and Cupra versions feature a slush moulded dash, while the dash on the Reference and Sport versions are both more pleasing to the touch.
The same visual quality extends to the seat upholstery and other fabrics. Each version is now equipped with different designs, shades and surfaces than what was used until now, except the Ibiza Cupra, whose exclusive surface treatments and upholstery remain unchanged.
The new Ibiza also features new steering wheels and gear lever knobs with a more attractive and modern design. While the FR has the same as the Altea FR, wrapped in leather and with the “FR” lettering, the Cupra versions feature a leather steering wheel and gear stick with red stitching.
All the seats in the new Ibiza are comfortable and offer good side support. From the Sport version up they have a sportier design. On the FR, as on the Altea FR, the letters “FR” are stitched into the top of the seat backs; and the Cupra retains the excellent seat features of the current model.
On the whole, the interior of the new Ibiza features new quality materials that lend it more modern and more attractive styling through the use of redesigned colours and upholstery.
CHASSIS: Purpose built
- “Agile Chassis”, fundamental for defining dynamic qualities
- Four different chassis developments depending on trim level
- Electro-hydraulic steering with three different settings
The widely acclaimed general structure of the new SEAT Ibiza remains the same as on the current version, as well as its chassis and several structurally bonded components - electro-hydraulic steering, independent front and semi-rigid rear suspension set-up, ventilated front brake discs and rear discs or drums, and 15 to 17 inch rims.
There are four different chassis developments depending on trim level - Normal, Sport, FR and Cupra, and all four are inextricably linked to a particular suspension setting. Each trim level builds on the previous one, increasing sportiness and driving efficiency as they progress up the range. The best way to understand what these differences are is to define the Agile Chassis concept.
The Agile Chasis is an innovative concept designed and developed at the Martorell Technical Centre that sets the new Ibiza apart from its market rivals. Its exclusive suspension system combines softer coils and short, stiff shock absorbers, silent blocks that filter shock and vibrations, tyres with a lower slip angle and more responsive steering, which is swift and sensitive to driver demands.
With this definition it is easy to understand how the four chassis developments are achieved by modifying the suspension settings on the new Ibiza - Normal on the Reference and Stylance versions; Sport, FR and Cupra on the same-name versions. Important to be pointed out is that the essential structure of the suspension system is identical on all Ibiza versions.
The front suspension features independent McPherson struts anchored directly onto a three-piece subframe - a sturdy central sheet metal console and two aluminium consoles - that only bears the steering mechanism gear and suspension wishbones. The anti-roll bar (18 mm diameter on the Reference, Stylance and Sport versions; 19 mm on FR and 20 mm on Cupra) is anchored directly onto the shock absorber. By only working during torsion and without any interference from additional reactions caused by variations in downward thrust, it is more efficient at its job, and permits a smaller diameter.
The twist beam rear axle with directional-effect consist of a U-shaped shaft which uses its own torsion resistance to avoid the need for an additional anti-roll bar. The coils and shock absorbers are unclamped, making it possible to use rubber stops of varying stiffness on each element without the need for such broad damper bays, as with concentric elements. This feature provides greater boot space.
The electro-hydraulic steering system resorts to a variable intensity electric pump that modulates power for slow-speed manoeuvres or fast turning, and reduces its effectiveness as speed increases. An electronic sensor located on the pump itself processes the information obtained from the turning speed of the steering wheel, engine running speed and the driving speed.
According to the chassis settings, the programme chooses a specific response pattern according to driving style, and transmits a characteristic steering mode. The three different setting types or patterns correspond to the Reference and Stylance versions (with the greatest assistance), the Sport and FR versions, and a specific programme for the Cupra version.
ENGINES: A wide range of 11 units
- Five petrol engines that deliver from 64 to 180 hp
- Five diesel engines that deliver from 70 to 160 hp
- Three transmissions - two manual with five and six speeds; one four-speed automatic
Few models currently on the market can boast such a wide range of engines as the Ibiza. With five petrol and five diesel engines to choose from, no customer needs will be left unsatisfied - from the most economical to the highest performing models. The engines on the SEAT Ibiza have evolved to match the car’s renewed styling. For this reason it is no wonder that this new, even sportier version is equipped with more dynamic engines.
The complete SEAT Ibiza range includes a choice of 11 different engines, since the petrol engine range additionally features a 75 hp (55 kW) 1.4 litre automatic version. Their level of technical innovation and efficiency is patent through the use of turbo-charged multi-valve technology in the petrol range and variable geometry turbo direct pump-injection diesel engines. All the engines in the new SEAT Ibiza range also fully comply with strict Euro IV emissions regulations.
The entry-level, 64 hp (47 kW) 1.2 litre petrol engine features four valves per cylinder head and consumes an average of 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres. It is followed by two, 16 valve 1.4 litre engines, which both deliver 75 hp (55 kW). One is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox while the other features a four-speed automatic, and offer an excellent compromise between performance and consumption.
The mid-range 1.4 litre 16 valve engine has an output of 100 hp (74 kW). It reaches a top speed of 190 km/h with an average fuel consumption of 6.6 litres. The next two versions deliver higher performance. Both 1.8 litre engines with five valves per cylinder head feature a turbo-charged compressor. The FR version delivers 150 hp (110 kW) and more importantly, its 220 Nm torque peaks at a usefully low 1,950 rpm. Its performance speaks for itself - 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 216 km/h, with an average fuel consumption rating of just 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres.
At the top of the petrol engine line is the Ibiza Cupra equipped with another 1.8 litre engine. To reach 180 hp (132 kW), its electronic management has been modified, and its intake and exhaust systems have been redesigned to improve breathing. With large air intakes, its front intercooler enhances output by taking greater advantage of the fuel by cooling incoming air and making it denser. The resized exhaust system further enhances performance by diminishing exhaust gas pressure.
The Cupra engine delivers its maximum torque (245 Nm) at 1,950 rpm. It takes 7.3 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, in-gear acceleration from 60 to 120 km/h takes 7.3 in fourth, and its top speed is 230 km/h. It is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox like the other petrol engines.
The most powerful diesel in its segment
An equally wide-range of diesel engines also provides spans from economical to high-performance solutions, with three options that exceed 100 hp. This is further proof of the sporty character traits that SEAT wants all of its Ibizas to possess, even if they are equipped with a diesel engine.
At the top of the SEAT diesel range is the 1.9 litre direct-injection turbo-diesel engine, featuring a variable geometry turbo charger and intercooler, that delivers no less than 160 hp (118 kW), making it the most potent diesel engine in its segment. It generates 330 Nm of torque at 1,900 rpm and features a modern six-speed gearbox with shorter ratios than usual in a diesel engine. In fact, it reaches top speed in sixth gear and at just 800 rpm at injection cut-off. This exceptional performance of the Ibiza Cupra diesel almost mirrors the 1.8 litre petrol Cupra, but only consumes an average of 5.5 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres compared with the petrol version’s 7.1 litres.
The next two 1.9-litre engines feature the same variable turbo geometry direct pump-injection technology, but generate an output of 100 and 130 hp respectively. On the more potent engine the fuel feed system has been adapted to provide greater turbo compression and fuel flow, and the turbocompressor is fitted with wider blades and a larger diameter outlet. The result is 130 hp (96 kW) and 310 Nm torque at 1,900 rpm. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with short speeds, it offers high performance with an average consumption of only five litres. The other 1.9-litre engine develops 100 hp (74 kW) and 240 Nm torque between 1,800 and 2,400 rpm. It is unmistakeably the most balanced choice, with an appealing performance level and a fuel consumption rating that rivals the smaller engines in the range.
The two smallest, 1.4-litre engines have two valves per cylinder head and injection pump direct turbo injection. Their output is 70 hp (51 kW) and 80 hp (59 kW) respectively, and they are the most frugal in terms of consumption, with ratings that barely exceed four litres on the extra-urban cycle and less than six in city driving. But their performance makes up for their size, as even the smallest engine exceeds 166 km/h. Both are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, the same as the 100 hp (74 kW) 1.9 version.
SAFETY: Up to six airbags
- Optional curtain airbags increase the offer to a total of six
- Seatbelts with three-point anchoring devices and all-round head restraints
- TCS and ESP available on versions equipped with 70 hp or higher engines
The wide range of safety elements available on the new SEAT Ibiza shows that passenger safety is first and foremost at SEAT - twin front airbags, side airbags, ABS anti-locking brake system, TCS traction control, ESP electronic stability programme, EBA emergency braking aid system, collapsible steering column and frangible brake pedal in the event of a collision, among others. Furthermore, the highly rigid body frame is a fundamental key to passenger safety.
The entire Ibiza range features driver and front passenger airbags as standard. The passenger airbag can be deactivated, with a useful warning light appearing on the central console. All models are equipped as standard with large-volume front side airbags to protect the chest and mid-section, except the Reference, on which it is an option. When the passenger airbag is disconnected, the passenger side airbag function is also switched off. Front and outside rear curtain airbags are also optional, so the entire Ibiza range features a total of six airbag protection options.
New Ibiza models are also equipped with three-point anchoring seatbelts for all five seats, each with a head restraint. The front seatbelts have pyrotechnic pre-tensioners. Child safety includes switchable airbags and two standard Isofix connectors for child seats.
In the event of a collision, a signal is sent from the airbag control unit through a CAN-Bus line to unlock the doors and automatically turns on the interior lights and hazard warning lights.
The new Ibiza range is equipped with ABS as a basic element of active safety. TCS traction control is standard on the FR and Cupra versions, and optional on the remaining three trim levels. ESP electronic stability programme, which includes EBA emergency braking assistance, is also optional except on the Cupra, where it is standard. Only new Ibizas equipped with engines over 70 hp (51 kW) can carry both TCS and ESP.
The new brake system includes 256 mm front ventilated discs, with 288 mm discs on the FR and 312 mm on the Cupra, which is also available with optional SEAT Racing brakes with four-pot callipers. At the rear, the discs are solid 232 mm. All models which produce less than 100 hp (74 kW) feature 200 mm rear brake drums.
RANGE: Something for everyone
- Five available versions: Reference, Stylance, Sport, FR and Cupra
- ABS, twin airbags and standard 15″ rims across the entire range
- ESP, curtain airbag, navigation system, MP3 and xenon lights among available options
The entire Ibiza range boasts a comprehensive equipment package, even at the entry-level Reference. More importantly, of the five versions, three offer added sports equipment - Sport, FR and Cupra. Each version features different upholstery and surface treatments.
The following list includes the standard equipment available on each version:
Reference
- Tinted windows
- Rear spoiler in body colour
- Black door mirrors, adjustable from the interior
- Roof-mounted anti-theft aerial
- Front power anti-trap one-touch windows
- Remote control central locking
- Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
- CD system with six speakers
- Passenger seat with Access Plus folding system for rear seat passengers (only available on 3-door versions)
- Height adjustable front seats
- Split rear seat with three height adjustable headrests
- Electro-hydraulic power steering
- Adjustable headlamp beams
- ABS
- Driver and passenger airbags
- Electric, pyrotechnic front seatbelts
- Rear seatbelts with three-point anchoring
- Isofix points for child seats
- Driver and passenger sunshades with vanity mirror
- Boot light
- Pollen filter
- Anti-theft immobiliser
- 195/55 tyres on 6Jx15 inch steel wheels
- Full size spare tyre
Stylance
Reference equipment plus:
- Foglamps
- Rear power windows (5-door version)
- Electrically adjusting door mirrors in body colour
- Climate control
- Front side airbags
- Desactivation switch for passenger airgbag
- Volumetric alarm
- Cruise control
- Trip computer
- Glove compartment light
- 195/55 tyres on 6Jx15 inch alloy rims
- Rear hinged windows (3-door)
Sport
Reference equipment plus:
- Foglamps
- Climate control
- Cruise control
- Sports suspension
- Electrically adjusting door mirrors in body colour
- Leather wrapped steering wheel, gear lever knob and hand brake grip
- Sport seats
- Trip computer
- Glove compartment with light
- 205/45 tyres on 6.5Jx16 inch alloy rims
FR
Sport equipment plus:
- 225/40 tyres on exclusive 7Jx17 inch alloy wheels
- TCS traction control
- Rear power windows (5-door version)
- Electrical door mirrors painted in silver
- Rear hinged windows (3-door)
- Chromed twin tailpipes of the exhaust, visible
Cupra
FR equipment plus:
- 225/40 tyres on exclusive 7Jx17 inch alloy wheels
- ESP electronic stability programme
- Electrical door mirrors painted in black
- Chromed, oval tailpipe of the exhaust, visible
Optional equipment
The new SEAT Ibiza offers customers several possibilities. The following list details the main options:
- TCS traction control for 70 hp and higher engines
- ESP electronic stability programme for 70 hp and higher engines
- SEAT Racing brakes (only Cupra)
- Air conditioning
- Climate control
- CD Radio with MP3 + FEHLT NOCH
- 6 CD loader
- Volumetric alarm
- 15″ alloy wheels
- 16″ alloy wheels
- Front side airbags
- Curtain airbags
- Cruise control
- Electrically-adjustable door mirrors
- Electric park position door mirrors
- Rain-sensing wipers and anti-dazzle rear-view mirror
- Front fog lights
- Xenon lights
- Leather upholstery
- Navigation system
- Winter package
- Electric sunroof
[source: seat.com]
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