SEAT Ibiza FR (2009 - 2017) 1.6 TDI CR FR Sport Coupe 3d (2012/62) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

With its cheap road tax and frugal running costs it's easy to be smug about cheap motoring with this car. Also it really doesn't have much road presence - which these days is probably a good thing! It's modern and reasonably stylish for the outside so hopefully people think that about me too!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Apart from the restricted headroom in the back (and getting into the back seats - after all this is a 3-door) most people like it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

If the deal was right I might buy another but would go for a bigger engine and more doors - even though the styling on the 3-door is far nicer.

What are you likely to buy next?

That depends on what sort of deal I get! I am not particularly brand-loyal but like to get trouble-free motoring which is why I Contract Hire my cars.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

December 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got a great deal on Contract Hire.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was a classy-looking car for little money on a contract hire deal.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly and helpful.

What's it like to drive?

Rock-hard suspension and 'sporty' seats with grippy side bolsters promise performance which the 1.6 diesel fails to deliver, easily running out of puff. The upside however is the slot-car handling which means once on the twisty stuff it's reasonably rewarding to drive, providing you're happy to keep stirring the gearbox to keep the revs in the narrow torque band. But poodling along or giving it some beans you're always aware that it's a diesel. Engine noise as well as road noise can be intrusive. The seating position is good and easy to get right with lots of adjustment on the seat and wheel.

What's it like to park?

It's small size and well-weighted steering make it easy to park in tight spots, even though park sensors are not included in the standard spec (another penny-pinching omission I feel.) The low-profile wheels could get kerb-damaged easily, which is worth bearing in mind.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing.

What's most practical about your car?

The mpg figures are (amazingly) as advertised - even with spirited driving the fuel consumption is excellent.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Considering this is a higher trim spec, there are few gadgets fitted (with no Bluetooth as standard which is quite an omission) but the cornering lights and cruise control give you at least a feel of big-car accessories.