Car of the Year 2004 - Supermini

Winner
Seat Ibiza 1.2 S 12v 5dr
£8900

Our 2003 Car of the Year is still sitting at the top of the supermini class.

Youthful looks inside and out give the Ibiza instant showroom appeal, but its talents are more than just skin deep. A lively drive backs up the looks. Although the ride is firmer than some around town, it’s not uncomfortable and the trade-off is good high-speed stability. The taut set-up also provides responsive handling while engaging steering adds to the fun.

Our favourite engine is still the 64bhp 1.2-litre petrol. The zesty unit provides enough zip for dashing into gaps in town traffic or cruising at motorway speeds. It’s a little noisy when revved hard but the distinctive thrum has a certain appeal, and it’s quiet at multi-lane pace.

Inside, the Seat’s cabin is as cheerful as its exterior, and the top-notch materials and excellent build quality are a cut above most of its rivals. A fine driving position and simple layout make everything easy to use, and there’s reasonable space for four adults plus a decent-sized boot.

At £8900, the Ibiza offers top value, especially when you consider its generous levels of standard equipment and safety features.

Low ownership costs complete an outstanding all-round package. A group 3 insurance rating and average fuel economy of 47.9mpg make it cheap to run, while its residual values are as strong as those of the closely related VW Polo.

Highly recommended
Mini One 1.6 16v
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Nissan Micra 1.2 S 5dr
£8495