Seat begins to ‘Leonize’ range with updated Ibiza, coming Autumn
Seat has demonstrated how it intends to ‘Leonize’ its range by unveiling a heavily revised Ibiza at the Barcelona Motor Show.
Available from this Autumn, the VW Polo-based supermini will be available with new engines, while new technology will make it safer and more comfortable.
Offered in the existing three- and five door hatchback and estate bodystyles, the Ibiza’s revised petrol engine line-up will comprise a three-cylinder 1L unit with power outputs of 75PS or 95PS, a 150PS 1.4L with active cylinder technology which can achieve 58.9mpg. There will also be a turbocharged Eco TSI 1L engine with 110PS, delivering up to 160Nm of torque.
Diesel drivers will only be able to choose from a 1.4L TDI with 75PS, 90PS, or 105PS; the former of which can return up to 83.1mpg combined at 88g/km CO2 while the others can achieve at least 74.3mpg.
Inside, the cabin is tied together with a new touchscreen infotainment system, which integrates the driver’s smartphone via Bluetooth. The same system can be found in Skoda’s recently launched fourth gen Fabia and VW Polo too.
Successful formula
The average age of Ibiza owners is 43 and Seat is keen to capitalise on the supermini’s relatively youthful customer, as Dr. Matthias Rabe, Seat’s Vice President for Research and Development, explained.
“We are opening up a new chapter of connectivity; our customers can continue their digital lifestyle, even when on the road,” he said. “However, the key issue for us is always the safest and most intuitive operation of the functions.”
Seat President and CEO Jürgen Stackmann added: “The new Ibiza will further expand Seat’s current success. It is the first example of how we ‘Leonize our Portfolio’, applying the successful formula of Leon into all our model range.
“Alongside efficiency, quality and safety, we have placed particular emphasis on the issue of connectivity. The new Ibiza is now part of the connected world.
More than five million Ibizas have been sold worldwide in the last 30 years, making it the Spanish brand’s most popular model.
Other changes include new 16- and 17-inch alloy wheel designs, two new exterior colours (Moonstone Silver and Chilli Red). Its maximum boot capacity of 430 litres, opening up to 1,164, remains unchanged.
Price and spec will be confirmed closer to the Ibiza’s Autumn launch but expect the minimum asking price to sit at around £12k.