Ibiza Party

What we like:

Affordable driving fun

frugal engine

premium feel

VW quality

nice interior

What we dislike:

No armrest

centre box

just slightly pricy

The tiny 3 cylinder turbocharged 1.0 delivers maximum torque of a very impressive 200Nm and delivers all this sweetness at 2,000rpm, and holds maximum till 3,500rpm. While you might be thinking that I have been comparing the car to the VW Polo, all this time using a 1.0, I certainly would, based on the build quality.

The Ford Fiesta 1.0 Ecoboost is Ford’s entry level hatch here, and the Ibiza provides a very refreshing alternative to the “Blue Oval’s” offering.

Taking off, you’d be surprised that the 3 pot accelerates willingly, and once past 4,000rpm gives off a sporty (or rough, really how you see it) note, which is quite addictive really. With maximum torque tapering off after 3,500rpm, it doesn’t leave the engine in a hurry, but it is gradual enough for you to take the gear changes to near 5,000rpm, if the need arises. The Ibiza is able to hit 100km/h in 9.3 seconds. It isn’t fast, but it will leave most compact cars behind at the lights. The all familiar 7-speed DSG transmission does great work of keeping the revs down, and you are able to cruise at highway speeds at sub 2,000rpm. And oh yes, there is that start-stop thing, which in short, means that you save fuel here and there. SEAT claims that the Ibiza is able to do a very impressive 22.2km/l combined.

This is no performance car, as the suspension is really set for comfort (the FR variant of the Ibiza gets a firmer suspension setup), and the car will display a bit off roll around the bends, with some tyre squeal. Frontal plough is quite minimal, and you will be able to adjust to the car’s protesting by lifting off the throttle a little, but the Ibiza is able to generally keep to its cornering line. Hidden within the supermini, is a very clever Electronic Differential Lock system, which prevents the inner wheel from spinning under more extreme conditions, ensuring that grip is kept at optimum levels. Multiple directional changes will see the Ibiza slightly unsettled, but it would take more to really have the car lose it, all thanks to the standard Electronic Stability Control unit.

Braking is assisted by ABS and EBD, and also features a Multi-Collision Braking System, which is said to reduce the effect of any rear end collisions, by applying the brakes automatically upon impact.

Pretty good for an entry-level car huh?

Why would we want to pay for a car which is priced rather closely to cars which are bigger?

Well, it is really the sum of the parts, which makes the Ibiza not an empty shell, but one loaded with technology, to keep you safe, while allowing you to experience the sheer joy of driving.

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