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SEAT Ibiza hatchback (2008-2017) - Engines, drive & performance

The SEAT Ibiza slots in behind the brilliant Ford Fiesta as one of the most fun superminis to drive

Carbuyer Rating

4.0 out of 5

Owners Rating
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Engines, drive & performance Rating

3.9 out of 5

The SEAT Ibiza is a very satisfying car to drive – particularly with one of the more powerful engines under the bonnet – but it's still slightly less fun to drive than the class-leading Ford Fiesta.

SEAT Ibiza petrol engines

If performance is a priority, choose the 1.4-litre TSI petrol. It gives you a 0-62mph time of around eight seconds – enough to embarrass some genuine sports cars – but the smaller 1.2-litre TSI or 1.0-litre EcoTSI probably have adequate power for most motorists' needs.

Diesel engines

The 1.4-litre TDI in FR trim provides a good balance of power and economy, dispatching with 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds but also managing 72.4mpg and costing nothing to tax if registered before April 2017. The same engine in SE spec is slower but even more economical: 78.5mpg and also zero tax under the current system.

The standard five-speed manual gearbox feels solid and smooth, but there's also the option of a DSG automatic gearbox. It allows you to shift gears using steering wheel-mounted paddles, or just let the box change gears automatically for you. This set-up won't be to every driver's taste, but do give it a try if you can afford it – more and more cars will be adopting similar systems in the coming years.

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Ride and handling are both strong points for the Ibiza. It manages something not many cars get right – a good balance between reasonably comfortable suspension over potholes and speed bumps and sure-footed handling on twisty country lanes.

Beware the range-topping FR model, though. It's been set up with keen drivers in mind, so while the handling is very impressive, the ride is a bit harsher than on lower-spec Ibizas. It's fun to drive on short trips, but will you be able to live with it in the long term?

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Which Is Best?

Cheapest

  • Name
    1.0 TSI 95 SE 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £19,725

Most Economical

  • Name
    1.0 TSI 95 SE 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £19,725

Fastest

  • Name
    1.0 TSI 115 FR 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £22,520

Richard is a former editor of Carbuyer, as well as sister site DrivingElectric.com, and he's now Deputy Editor at Auto Express. Having spent a decade working in the automotive industry, he understands exactly what makes new car buyers tick.

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