Overview

It may not quite be up there with GTI, but the Cupra badge is fast building a reputation as a name associated with great to drive, performance hatchbacks. This Cupra is based on the three-door Ibiza SC hatch and adds even more striking features to the distinctive shape including 17-inch alloys, larger bumpers and a centrally mounted squared-off exhaust.

It certainly stands out, but to confuse things slightly, there’s also a Bocanegra model. Translated this means ‘black mouth’ and the name becomes obvious when you see the front with its distinctive black grille and bumper surround. It’s mechanically identical to the Cupra and uses the same 1.4 TSI engine that delivers an impressive 180bhp and a 0-62mph time of 7.2 seconds.

Unusually, there’s no manual gearbox, instead the quickest Ibiza is fitted with a sequential DSG gearbox as standard.