What Car? Car of the Year 2005 - Supermini

Seat Ibiza 1.2 SX 5dr
List Price £9400
Target Price £8798

The Ibiza’s supermini crown faced stiff competition from well priced, spacious newcomers this year. Seat also dropped our favourite model, the entry-level S, in favour of the SX at £500 more.

The Ibiza is better equipped than ever, however, which means the Ibiza still represents excellent value for money. It continues to impress out on the road, where it’s nimble and fun, and stable on the motorways.

The cabin is well built and comfortable. It may not be as spacious as some rivals but there’s enough room for four adults to travel in comfort, plus a decent-sized boot. It has twin front airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard, and its safety is backed up by a four-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating.

Owners will enjoy modest insurance premiums plus excellent average fuel economy of 47.1mpg. It won’t disappoint when you come to sell it on, either. After three years it should hold on to 52% of its value – that’s even better than its cousin, the VW Polo.

The Seat Ibiza is a terrific all-round package.

Broadband users click here to see our video review of the Seat Ibiza

Dial-up users click here to see our video review of the Seat Ibiza

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Honda Jazz 1.2 i-DSi S
List Price £8600
Target Price £8261

Kia Picanto 1.1 LX
List Price £6245
Target Price £5991

Renault Modus 1.2 Expression
List Price £9650
Target Price £8913