What does it cost?
Seat Ibiza Hatchback full 9 point review
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Performance
The 103bhp 1.2 TSI is responsive and fits the needs of most Ibiza buyers perfectly, but the 85bhp 1.4 is our pick because it provides the best balance of performance and affordability. If you do enough miles to justify the extra cost of diesel models, the 1.2 TDI has the best balance of performance and price – even if the 1.6 and 2.0 units are better performers.
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Ride & Handling
The Ibiza's suspension is quiet and supple, and the body is well controlled. Its handling isn't as sporty as a Ford Fiesta’s, but it’s grippy and predictable, even if the steering is a little short of feel. The car rides well most of the time, too - even on the sporty FR model - but there is some patter over bumps. The FR isn't as exciting as we'd like, either.
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Refinement
The Ibiza shuts out road noise well, but the wind noise will try your patience. The smaller engines can sound strained when you’re doing 70mph, too. Some of the diesels are a bit on the clattery side, but nearly all of them are hushed once you settle at a constant speed.
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Buying & Owning
Ibiza buyers will love the affordable prices - even dearer models such as the FR are decent value - and there are also some decent discounts around. Residuals are decent for the class, too. The engines are quite frugal and fall into low company car tax bandings, especially the green Ecomotive versions. Servicing and insurance costs are also low.
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Quality & Reliability
Many of the plastics in low-end models are hard to the touch, and this gives the cabin a rather utilitarian feel. Things get a bit better as you progress up the range, but no Ibiza can match the classy feel of a VW Polo. Unfortunately, the Ibiza is a regular feature in the bottom half of the JD Power survey.
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Safety & Security
The Ibiza has twin front and side airbags as standard, with the side 'bags extending upwards to cover the same area as a curtain airbag would – in the front at least. On most versions, however, stability control is available only as part of an option pack. Security kit is pretty decent, though.
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Behind The Wheel
Most drivers will find it easy to get comfortable. The driver's seat is supportive, with height adjustment on all models, and the steering wheel moves for both reach and rake. However, the Ibiza’s restricted rear visibility is disappointing.
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Space & Practicality
There's lots of head- and legroom up front, but access to the rear is more difficult in the three-door than with some rivals. The rakish roof line and tight rear legroom mean that, if you want to take a couple of mates along, there'll be plenty of arguing over who sits in the back. There’s plenty of room in the 292-litre boot, thought, but a split-folding rear seat isn't standard across the range.
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Equipment
Entry-level E models come with electric front windows, remote central locking and an MP3/CD player with steering-column controls. S A/C adds air-conditioning and split-folding rear seats, while SE includes alloy wheels and some classier trim. FR models get bigger alloys, stiffer suspension and heavily bolstered seats.
Ibiza used car reviews
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