Seat Tarraco Review
Caroline drives the new SEAT Tarraco!
In the last few years, SEAT has grown its portfolio of cars with the addition of a new family of SUVs, including the Ateca and last year’s compact Arona. But now it’s the arrival of the Tarraco that looks set to enhance SEAT’s prospects even more. The new SEAT Tarraco is not only the brand’s largest family SUV, available with five or seven seats, but it’s also a new flagship model for the brand.
With pricing starting from €34,700, the SEAT Tarraco enters a significantly crowded market of family SUVs. Yet the Tarraco is certainly one of the most spacious of its ilk so in that way it’s a properly accommodating family car. Five seat models are standard but you can get two extra seats in the rear for an additional €1000, turning your Tarraco into the seven seat family mover of your dreams.
Stylish and practical family SUV
The SEAT Tarraco hides its bulk well in the metal, being creased in all the right places for a classy, discrete presence. However to distinguish the Tarraco, there’s some more elaborate design touches synonymous with the ambitious Spanish brand. There’s drama in the big, upright grille and sharp LED headlights with SEAT’s triangular signature design, as well as a defining light strip along the rear of the car.
SEAT Ireland has launched the Tarraco in two trims, SE and Xcellence, with even SE models getting LED lights and 18” inch alloys. The Xcellence model I had on test (from €39,885) had 20” alloys added as an option but standard kit includes 19” alloys and a special Xcellence styling kit.
Standard equipment is very good across the range with SE models getting 8” touchscreen, cruise control, digital instrument panel, SEAT drive profile, tri zone climate control, keyless start, front assist, city emergency braking, lane keep assist and rear view camera. Xcellence models add electric tailgate, adaptive cruise control, automatic lights and wipers, and park assist.
Inside the SEAT Tarraco
The interior of the SEAT Tarraco has a simple and elegant design with a digital instrument panel as standard and 8” touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Quality is some of the best we’ve seen from SEAT to date. There are also some more distinct elements to this cabin like the stylish brushed chrome trim inserts and the digital instrument panel with unique graphics and three different views to choose from.
The cabin feels large and spacious and there is loads of space for second row occupants. There are two optional seats in row three. There is not a lot of legroom back there, but the split fold rear bench in row 2 can be slid forward and back to create more space. The boot is a huge 760 litres with a wide aperture and a powered tailgate is standard on Xcellence trim.
What are my engine options?
The new SEAT Tarraco is available in Ireland with a 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol (150hp), a 2.0-litre TSI turbo petrol (190hp) and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel. The 2.0-litre TDI is available with a manual gearbox with a power output of 150hp or in automatic DSG 4×4 guise with 190hp.
My test car was a 2.0-litre diesel with 190hp paired with a DSG automatic transmission and four wheel drive. It was a wonderful combination with smooth gearshifts and lots of power, making it an effortless drive whether in town or country. Over a week of driving my fuel consumption averaged at 7.2l/100km, while motor tax is €390 per year for this model.
The SEAT Tarraco is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A long wheelbase architecture but SEAT say that they have tweaked it to make it more like a SEAT, with a bit of sportiness and flair to the driving experience.
On the road in the SEAT Tarraco
The light controls make it easy work in the urban environment, while the diesel was smooth and refined around town. There is only so much that the Tarraco can do to disguise its size and weight in corners, but it handles with enough agility for this class of vehicle. The refinement and comfort of the car is truly special also and the Tarraco moves through the air with incredible ease.
The SEAT Tarraco is a real triumph for SEAT, showcasing some of the best quality, comfort and refinement the brand has to offer. It’s a spacious and practical vehicle with a versatile interior that should serve family well.
The Tarraco is stylish and well equipped with well proven engines on offer so it can truly command its position in the market as a stylish, quality and desirable SUV. This is such a pleasant car to drive every day, with ride quality and refinement that gives a surprisingly premium feel to the Tarraco. In that way SEAT has really delivered on the premise of a flagship model for their brand and the Tarraco is an aspirational vehicle that will turn heads.
Model
tested: Tarraco
2.0TDI 190hp DSG 4Drive Xcellence (7 Seat)
Price: €51,460 (Range from €34,700)
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
Power: 190 hp
Torque: 400 Nm
0-100km/h: 8 seconds
Top speed: 209 km/h
Fuel economy: 37.2-38.2mpg
CO2 emissions: 147g/km
Motor tax: €390 per year
Seat Arona Review
Caroline reviews the SEAT Arona.
The SEAT Arona is SEAT’s new compact crossover based on the excellent SEAT Ibiza supermini. Sporting a raised ride height and gruffer off-road looks, the SEAT Arona range starts from €17,995 in Ireland and is sure to attract a lot of fans.
For buyers looking for a larger SUV, SEAT already offers the Ateca. But the new SEAT Arona slots neatly into the burgeoning B-SUV segment. The Arona uses the Volkswagen Group’s new small car platform and has been honed and tweaked to make it a formidable competitor in its segment where the Renault Captur currently reigns supreme.
Though compact in size, SEAT has really made great use of the space available. The Arona is one of the roomiest of its ilk and the footwells in the rear are generously sized so it feels anything but cramped back there. The Arona can house a good 400 litres in its boot and the flat loading sill makes it practical for every day use. The rear doors also open wide.
Inside the dashboard design is similar to the SEAT Ibiza supermini so there is a clear, logical layout and a nice mix of materials to add interest to the harder plastics. Infotainment is provided via a 5” or 8” touchscreen depending on model, with Apple Car Play and Android Auto available on all but the base model.
In Ireland the Arona is offered in four trims: S, SE, Xcellence and FR. Standard equipment includes electric windows, air con, Bluetooth and Front Assist. SE (from €20,715) adds more including 16” alloys, LED taillights, front fog lights, leather steering wheel and cruise control.
Buyers looking for more equipment and individuality can select an Xcellence or FR model. Both are similarly priced from €22,815, with the Xcellence being pitched as the more upmarket one and the FR pitched as the sporty one with the SEAT Drive Profile Selection to spice things up behind the wheel and sportier styling.
What's the SEAT Arona like on the road?
My Xcellence test car was very well equipped with keyless entry, some updates to styling including special alloys, chrome trim and chrome roof rails, parking sensors and camera, park assist and a special interior finish. Equipped with SEAT’s excellent 1.0TSI petrol 115hp, this model has a competitive list price of €22,815. This model is cheap to run with motor tax costing €200 per year. My fuel economy was 6.5l/100km over a week of driving.
Other engine options include the 1.0TSI petrol with 95hp, 1.5TSI petrol with 150hp and a 1.6TDI diesel with 95hp. But the 1.0TSI really is a star performer in the Arona: it’s nippy and refined with a perfect spread of power whether driving on motorway, town or country roads. Add on top of this the Arona’s agility, quick steering and supple suspension and you have one of the best compact crossovers to drive.
It’s fair to say the compact crossover market in Ireland is loaded with competitors but if you go to check out the SEAT Arona you will find a fantastic all-rounder. The Arona offers great space and practicality on board for this class of vehicle. It’s compact, agile and fun to drive making it a great small family car. The Arona is competitively priced with lots of equipment and technology available so deserves to do very well in its segment.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: SEAT Arona Xcellence 1.0TSI 115hp
Price: €22,815 (Range from €17,995)
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo petrol
Power: 115hp
Torque: 200Nm
0-100km/h: 10 seconds
Top speed: 182km/h
Economy: 4.9l/100km
CO2 emissions: 113g/km
Motor tax: €200 per year
SEAT Ibiza Review
SEAT is currently a brand on a big mission. In the last 18 months, they’ve launched their first SUV, the Qashqai rivalling SEAT Ateca, and there’s the soon-to-arrive, all-new compact Arona SUV. On top of that, the much-acclaimed SEAT Leon hatchback had a facelift in 2017 and this summer also saw the arrival of a new SEAT Ibiza supermini.
The new SEAT Ibiza has the privilege of being the first car in the Volkswagen Group to use the all-new MQB A0 platform for small cars. That’s a big boon for the Spanish brand, and with trademark sporty SEAT styling and affordable pricing, the new Ibiza could be on to something big.
And big it is. The new SEAT Ibiza has really grown up. The styling has matured and while all the curves and angles we’ve come to associate with the SEAT Ibiza are there, this wider, lower Ibiza looks better than ever. Inside, a longer wheelbase means there is more passenger space, and this is now one of the roomiest small cars out there. A 355 litre boot tops it off.
In terms of trim, buyers can choose from the more standard S (from €14,995) and SE (from €17,335), but for more uniqueness there is an XCELLENCE model (from €18,745) with more kit, and the sporty FR (from €19,465).
Standard equipment includes Front Assist, remote central locking and touchscreen but SE cars add 15“ alloys, front fog lights, LED DRLs, rear LED lights, air con and Bluetooth.
Xcellence adds a leather pack, cruise control, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, and folding electric mirrors. FR features 17“ alloys, dark tinted rear windows, SEAT Drive Profile, and sportier styling features.
My FR trim car was finished in Desire Red with optional 18” alloy wheels added and it looked very ‘desirable’ indeed.
The interior of the new SEAT Ibiza has had a thorough makeover and the previous car’s drab slab of grey plastic has been broken up with a new interior panel that is finished in gloss black in FR trim cars. A large touchscreen with glossy black surround is the focal point in the centre of the dash. The cheap looking circular air vents have been replaced by rectangular vents that look of better quality. While hard plastics still dominate and the cloth seat material looks a little cheap, overall the quality and design has stepped up in new Ibiza.
The new SEAT Ibiza is still offered with the old 1.0-litre MPI petrol with 75hp. For perkier performance buyers can choose from the new three cylinder turbo 1.0-litre TSI petrol with 95 or 115hp. Joining later will be a new 1.5-litre TSI 150hp four cylinder turbo petrol and 1.6-litre diesels (80 and 95hp). A DSG automatic gearbox is available paired with the new 1.0-litre 115hp engine.
My test car had the new 1.0-litre TSI with 115hp and first off for a three cylinder unit it’s remarkably smooth and refined with little vibration coming through the pedals. The turbo petrol gives faultless performance with lots of in-gear punch and 0-100kmh achieved in 9.3 seconds. This unit is naturally cheap to run as well with an average consumption of 4.7l/100km and CO2 emissions of 108g/km. The Ibiza 1.0 TSI is available from €18,065 in SE trim.
On the road, the new SEAT Ibiza is smooth and agile with nicely sharp steering and well contained body roll. The car is lacking the steering feel of the Ford Fiesta that makes it the handling star of the class, but this car is pure and sharp to drive. The FR model has a number of driving modes including a Sport mode, but these do little to alter the driving experience. The firmer suspension of FR models makes these cars noticeably firmer over changeable Irish roads than other models in the Ibiza range.
The small car from SEAT first launched in 1984 has come a long way and while 2017 has felt like the year of the small car with numerous new models arriving here, the Ibiza is one of the best all rounders. The new SEAT Ibiza’s class leading ability boils down to the new platform, which makes this car more practical and spacious, but the drive is nigh on faultless too for a small, affordable car. The new 1.0-litre TSI is up with the best of the small turbo petrols in the segment. The SEAT Ibiza has a strong image and this new sharp suit its wearing should appeal to a variety of buyers but crucially I think we can say that the SEAT Ibiza is cool!
Model tested: SEAT Ibiza FR 1.0TSI 115hp
Price: €20,185 (Range starts €14,995)
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo petrol
Power: 115hp
Torque: 200Nm
0-100km/h: 9.3 seconds
Top speed: 195km/h
Claimed Economy: 4.7l/100km
CO2 emissions: 108g/km
Motor tax: €190 per year
Caroline Kidd
SEAT Ibiza Review (2017)
The SEAT Ibiza is a stalwart of the SEAT brand and has been around since 1984. This summer, the fifth generation of the Ibiza supermini will arrive in Ireland. This all-new model sits on a new small car platform from the Volkswagen Group and debuts with new styling, more tech and improved driving dynamics and comfort. I travelled to Barcelona with SEAT Ireland to drive the new car.
Styling
The design of the new SEAT Ibiza is more evolutionary than revolutionary, but the Ibiza has matured with more lines and contours for an edgier and sportier look. The car has not grown in length (it’s actually 2mm shorter and 1mm lower) but it looks more elongated and elegant in the metal when compared to the previous model. There is a choice of seven body colours including Desire Red, Mystery Blue and Mystic Magenta.
Interior
Inside there is a new cabin design that is a big improvement over the outgoing model. The material quality has improved and the large expanse of grey dashboard has been broken up with a new decorative moulding that stretches the width of the cabin. A large touchscreen with glossy black surround is the focal point in the centre of the dash.
Practicality
The SEAT Ibiza is sold now as five door only. The new Ibiza is a significant 87mm wider than the car it replaces and that is immediately apparent when you sit into the driver’s seat because there is more shoulder room between you and your passenger. The rear seating space in the previous generation always felt a little on the small side but there is now 35mm more leg room for rear seat passengers and 17mm more headroom. Boot space has increased by 63 litres to 355 litres, which is excellent for this class of vehicle.
Engines
In Ireland, the new SEAT Ibiza will be available at launch with a non-turbo 1.0-litre (75hp) petrol engine and a new 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol with 95 or 115hp. Joining later will be a new 1.5-litre TSI 150hp four cylinder turbo petrol and 1.6-litre diesels (80 and 95hp). A DSG automatic gearbox is available paired with the new 1.0-litre 115hp engine. At the launch, I drove the new 1.0-litre 115hp turbo petrol engine with both a 6-speed manual and a DSG automatic gearbox. This engine is fast and nippy with 0-100kmh achieved in 9.3 seconds, and robust enough to be taken out of the city. This unit has an average consumption of 4.7l/100km and CO2 emissions are 108g/km.
On the road
The new SEAT Ibiza is the first car from the Volkswagen Group to use the new MQB A0 platform. There is now a better balance between handling and comfort, and the steering has also been improved. On the tight, twisty mountain roads of our test route around Barcelona, the new Ibiza was brilliant to drive with excellent grip and precise steering that tightens perfectly going into turns for good feel and easy positioning on the road. At motorway speeds, the Ibiza is stable, quiet and refined.
Equipment
The all-new SEAT Ibiza is available in four trim levels in Ireland: S, SE, Xcellence and FR. Entry level equipment includes Front Assist, remote central locking and touchscreen. SE cars add 15“ alloys, front fog lights, LED DRLs, rear LED lights, air con and Bluetooth. Xcellence adds a leather pack, cruise control, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, and folding electric mirrors. FR is the sporty one and features 17“ alloys, dark tinted rear windows, SEAT Drive Profile, and updated styling.
Pricing
Pricing for the new SEAT Ibiza starts at €14,995 for the S range, €17,335 for the SE range, €18,745 for XCELLENCE and €19,465 for the FR range. The new 1.0-litre TSI is available from €18,065. Diesel pricing is yet to be confirmed. SEAT has announced a special 3-2-1 offer on new Ibiza which provides customers with a 3 years‘ free service plan, 2% PCP and one years‘ free road tax.
Rivals
The SEAT Ibiza will be up against it this year with plenty of new competition coming from new or refreshed models like the Toyota Yaris, Renault Clio, Nissan Micra, Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio.
Verdict
The SEAT Ibiza has grown-up. The new Ibiza’s confident stance and style on the outside is matched to a new found maturity on the road. There have been welcome improvements in space, comfort and refinement, and the new interior and infotainment means the Ibiza is well equipped to take the fight to the competition. While the new 1.0-litre turbo petrol tested at launch is excellent, the higher list price means it likely won’t be the default option for Irish buyers. It’s a shame, but new Ibiza looks to have the basics covered.
The new SEAT Ibiza will be in Irish dealers from late June.
Caroline Kidd
SEAT Ateca Pricing And Specs For Ireland
The SEAT Ateca will reach Ireland in August, with pricing starting at €24,750. The Ateca will be SEAT’s first ever SUV, and in keeping with SEAT tradition, the Ateca gets its name from a Spanish village.
The new car promises a spacious, practical and versatile interior with seating for five and a large 510 litre boot in front wheel drive models (485 litres in all-wheel drive versions).
The Ateca will be available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, all of them turbocharged, including a 1.6-litre TDI diesel (115hp), 2.0-litre TDI diesel (150hp or 190hp), three cylinder 1.0-litre TSI petrol (115hp) and a 1.4-litre TSI petrol (150hp) with cylinder deactivation under partial load to save fuel. There will be manual or DSG automatic transmissions available, and front wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants.
There will be three equipment lines for the Irish market at launch: S, SE and XCELLENCE.
The entry-level S trim (from €24,750) includes 16” alloy wheels, air conditioning, Media System touch with a 5-inch screen, electric parking brake, as well as safety systems like seven airbags, drowsiness detection, tyre pressure monitoring and Front Assist.
The SE trim (from €27,290) adds 17” alloy wheels, LED rear lights, climate control and rear parking sensors.
The top of the range XCELLENCE model (from €31,120) has leather upholstery, multi-colour ambient lighting, roof rails and window frames in chrome, a high-gloss black grille, dark tinted windows, 18” alloy wheels, full LED headlamps with welcome light, SEAT Drive Profile, rear parking sensors with rear view camera, and keyless entry and start.
The new SEAT Ateca will be in Irish SEAT dealers this August.
Caroline Kidd
Seat Ibiza Cupra Review
I hope you enjoy our review of the 2016 SEAT Ibiza Cupra, a little cracker of a hot hatchback. In 2017, SEAT introduced an all new generation of the SEAT Ibiza supermini, but sadly there was no Cupra version in 2018, 2019, 2020...so we can only presume they are not making one. But we did get a chance to drive the top spec SEAT Ibiza FR in 2017.
The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is back with a new engine and more power, but with the same budget-friendly pricing that makes this car super appealing. The list price is just €22,625, significantly less than rivals such as the Ford Fiesta ST, Peugeot 208 GTi and Opel Corsa OPC.
Scroll down to read the rest of the review or watch my video review:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdkKXedyAlU]
But the SEAT Ibiza Cupra is a bona fide hot hatch – just look at the performance figures. A new 1.8-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine replaces the old twin charged 1.4-litre petrol and power has been upped from 180 to 192hp. Torque is up from 250 to 320Nm. The Ibiza Cupra will hit 100kmh from a standstill in 6.7 seconds and go on to a top speed of 235 km/h.
Driving the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra
It feels every bit as fast as that on the road. Like a good old-fashioned hot hatch, the Ibiza Cupra is deliciously light, agile and uncomplicated. The steering is sharp and precise. An XDS electronic differential lock reduces understeer as you turn in for the corner at speed. A prod of that accelerator pedal and you’ve got a lovely linear boost of power to exit those corners quickly. SEAT has dropped the automatic gearbox in favour of a new 6-speed manual gearbox. That makes the new Ibiza Cupra even more involving and exciting to drive.
You can toggle between Sport and Normal modes to adjust the ride and handling characteristics. In Normal mode, the ride is still on the firmer side of the spectrum. But it’s still comfortable enough for it to be an easy car to live with on a daily basis. Predictably Sport mode firms things up a bit more so the body feels a bit stiffer through bends, the throttle feels a bit more sensitive and it also makes the exhaust a bit nosier (in a good way!).
The economy is not bad either. The Ibiza Cupra will return up to 46mpg, which is similar to the claimed economy figures from rivals. However, emissions of 145g CO2 put the Ibiza in tax band C so motor tax will be €390 per year.
What does it look like?
The interior and exterior styling has been smartened up in line with the rest of the recently facelifted Ibiza range but the Cupra gets a few extras . There are 17” 5 spoke alloy wheels, red brake callipers, centrally mounted twin exhaust pipes, spoiler, Cupra badges and new bumpers and grille.
The cabin is really the only place that reflects the Cupra’s budget price. It’s not quite as plush or daring when compared to more expensive rivals. Quality has been improved but it’s only differentiated from lesser Ibizas with a few Cupra badges. Still it’s a small gripe and this car is on its game where it matters. As a top of the range Ibiza, the Cupra has a good list of standard equipment including cruise control, climate control, sports seats, aluminium pedals, Cupra leather steering wheel and gearstick, trip computer, touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, and electric windows and mirrors.
Like rivals, the Ibiza Cupra is sold as three door only. Interior space is good up front but a bit more snug in the back. The boot is a good size at 292 litres, and that’s the same capacity as the standard five door Ibiza.
Did you like it?
The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is so tempting because it offers hot hatch performance figures at such a great price. It's a great option if you’re a power hungry petrolhead on a budget or just a small car buyer willing to stretch for something a bit more fun and exciting. The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is excellent value considering the power and poise that this car has.
Model tested: SEAT Ibiza Cupra
Price: €22,625
Engine: 1.8-litre, four cylinder turbo petrol
Power: 192hp
0-100km/h: 6.7 seconds
Economy: 46mpg (6.2l/100km)
CO2 emissions: 145g/km
Tax band: C (€390 per year)
Caroline Kidd
Seat Ibiza Review (2015)
The SEAT Ibiza has good small car provenance sharing much of its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Polo and Skoda Fabia. But the Ibiza could be the perfect antidote to its more reserved stablemates. We loved the sporty SEAT Ibiza Cupra when we drove it. But what about the more basic Ibiza 1.0-litre petrol?
SEAT has revamped the Ibiza range. Changes are based around styling and equipment to keep the car a competitive small hatchback.
This is a very busy segment. There are lots of really good small cars out there. But are they as good looking as the Ibiza? We think the Ibiza holds the stance of a larger hatchback on the road. It’s all curves in the right places and even as a sensible, practical five door, it has a lot of character. New customisation options have been added to further enhance the Ibiza’s appeal. My test car looked great in dramatic Alor Blue with contrasting white covers on the door mirrors and a white strip around the grille.
The interior of the 2015 SEAT Ibiza
Inside the main focus has been on upgrading the materials and infotainment. The cabin has more of a modern, youthful vibe when compared to its VW Group sister cars, with a driver-focused centre console, big, circular air vents, and simple dials with sporty italicised numbers. Connectivity is now bang up to date with the addition of a touchscreen infotainment system to the centre of the dash on all models and the option of adding a Mirror Link, Apple Car Play and Android Auto package for easy integration with smartphones and access to apps.
Cabin space is about average for a car of this size but rear legroom is not the most generous in the class and some rivals do it better. There is choice in terms of body styles so a 3-door Sport Coupé kicks off the range at €13,595, the 5-door hatchback tested here starts at €14,295 and an Ibiza ST (estate) starts at €15,235. The boot space is the same in the 3 and 5-door models (292 litres), but go for the estate and that’s boosted to 430 litres!
There’s a new steering system for the Ibiza and SEAT has also reworked the suspension to improve comfort. The steering is well-weighted and the Ibiza feels quick and willing to change direction, with good body control through the corners should you want to take things a little swifter.
Driving the 2015 SEAT Ibiza
The suspension does a good job of cossetting you from the worst of the bumps and imperfections in the road surface; the Ibiza is less successful at disguising quite a bit of wind and road noise at high speeds. It doesn’t have quite the same level of big car comfort and refinement as the Volkswagen Polo. The Polo is truly exceptional in this regard. The Ibiza is cheaper and still a genuinely sweet car to drive.
SEAT has overhauled the engine line-up for the Ibiza with the addition of some new, cleaner engines. My test car had a 1.0-litre 75bhp petrol engine that’s new to the range and borrowed from the SEAT Mii city car and some other VW Group products. It does the job and it’s smooth to drive, but out of town it feels a bit flat in the higher gears. In terms of economy, it will return up to 54mpg, while motor tax costs €200 per year.
If it’s performance you’re after you’ll be wanting one of the 1.2 turbo petrols (90 or 110bhp), but availability is limited to the top level FR trim. For the best economy, there’s a new 1.4 diesel with 75bhp, returning up to 78mpg. A higher powered diesel (90bhp) is available on FR trim.
What are my options?
There are four trim levels: S, SE, Sport and FR. The five door range in S trim starts at €14,295 and standard equipment includes front electric windows and mirrors, Bluetooth and a 5” touchscreen. The SE five door range starts at €15,420 and adds additional 15” alloy wheels, trip computer and front fog lights. Five door Sport models start at €16,960 and have 16” alloys, air con, LED DRLs and leather trimmed steering wheel, and this trim also opens up the option of adding custom packs to the interior and exterior. Top spec FR trim starts at €18,910 for a five door and introduces more powerful engines, along with sporty updates to the interior and interior.
The Ibiza has the stoicness and robust feel to it of its VW Group sister cars, yet rather than just feeling like a slightly cheaper imitation, there is enough Latin soul flowing through the Ibiza for it to be a car that can stand tall in the segment on its own terms.
Did you like it?
Depending on needs and budget, the engine line-up covers all bases and on the road the Ibiza is a sweet car to drive with nicely weighted steering and good body control through the bends. The interior is not the last word in luxury or refinement but it’s well-made, easy to navigate and the addition of the touchscreen infotainment on all models brings it up to date.
The SEAT Ibiza gets the thumbs up because it’s just so effortlessly cool. The Ibiza is the small car you desire for its edgy styling and fun, sporty image. It’s not without its faults but just like the cool kid at school, you want to hang out with it and hope that some of its glow will rub off on you just by association. It’s a well-built small car that can hold its own out on the road and this recent round of updates means that the Ibiza demands a whirl if you’re looking for a trendy and good value small car.
Read what an owner thinks of the SEAT Ibiza.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Seat Ibiza Sport 5-door
Price: €16,960 (Range starts at €13,595)
Engine: 1.0-litre, three cylinder petrol
Power: 75bhp
0-100km/h: 14.3 seconds
Economy: 54.3mpg
Motor Tax: €200 per year
SEAT Mii by Mango Review
Caroline reviews the 2015 SEAT Mii by Mango!
It’s quite fashionable these days for a car manufacturer to collaborate with a designer or fashion label on a special edition car. They tend to be either supercars for the rich and famous or small cars aimed at women.
Now SEAT, the Spanish manufacturer owned by the VW Group, has teamed up with Spanish fashion retailer Mango to produce a special edition of the SEAT Mii city car. A match made in heaven you would think.
And it is. The makeover turns the little Mii into a car that you might desire beyond its attractive pricing. You won’t just go out to buy the Mii because it’s a good, cheap small car. No now you might actually buy it because you desire it for its Glam Beige body paint, grey alloy wheels and Mii by Mango badges.
Interior of the new SEAT Mii by Mango
Inside predictably it’s a bit like sitting into a handbag with an interesting mix of surfaces and a classy palette of grey, black and beige. The material quality looks very good but a special mention needs to go to the exclusive Mii by Mango branded Alcantara trimmed seats. They look so classy and even a bit luxurious. And I haven’t even told you the price yet.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ls5uF0DaHvg]
There’s air con and front electric windows for convenience, but you will probably want to upgrade to add the SEAT Touch system, which adds Bluetooth, infotainment and navigation, all controlled from a dash mounted touchscreen.
The cabin space is good considering how small the car is on the outside and at 251 litres, the boot is one of the biggest in the class.
The Seat Mii is built on the same platform as the Volkswagen up! and Skoda Citigo. I’ve reviewed the Volkswagen up! previously on this blog and it’s safe to say it’s a good car that goes above and beyond the demands of city life so the omens were always good for the Mii. The Mii shares the same 1.0-litre 75bhp petrol engine as its sister cars so that means on the road, it’s fun, it’s lively, and economical, returning up to 60mpg.
The Mii is a really good size and shape for parking and driving around town, and if you must take it out on the motorway, you’ll find it very stable, and comfortable by small car standards. If you’re belting along the motorway you will still know you’re driving a small car so you will have to put up with a bit of road noise.
The Mango makeover is purely cosmetic, and there’s nothing new or different under the skin of the Mii by Mango. So while the Mii range starts at just over €10,000 for a 3 door in entry level S trim (exceedingly good value), the Mii by Mango is at the top of the range and the most expensive with a list price of €13,595. Of course this is not going to break the bank but really the Mii by Mango is the small car you buy because you love the way it looks!
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: SEAT Mii by Mango 5-door
Price: €13,595 (Mii range starts at €10,145)
Engine: 1.0-litre, three cylinder petrol
Power: 75bhp
0-100km/h: 13.2 seconds
Economy: 60.1mpg
CO2 emissions: 108g/km
Tax band: A3 (€190 per year)