Other SEAT Ibiza (2008 - 2017) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    A small-car user who is interested ins ometh ing a little more edgy than the VW-box norm.

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

    They think it is far more expensive a car than it really is. Lots of presence for such a small, and affordable, car.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Perhaps. There is a lot of character in this little car and it's easy to fall for it. It is difficult to find a competitor car that has such style outside and feels so sporty or unusual inside.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Seat Leon SC, Nissan Pulsar or Audi A1.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £7,500

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Much of the negotiations for the car were done via email or over the telephone. My needs were considered carefully by the dealer and no pressure was applied. The eventual price was reasonable and the part exchange price offered for old car was in line with the Parker's price guide.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Exterior styling and th driver-focused interior. Excellent customer service.

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The Ibiza is a really engaging little car to drive. The steering is precise and eggs you on to take tight bends a little quicker than you expect possible. The chassis always puts a smile on my face. This model is one of the lower-powered engines. The chassis can take far more power (like in the Cupra or FR models) so it isn't breaking a sweat here. The engine still feels responsive and revs freely. Urban drives and motorway cruises are perfectly do-able although there is a little more engine noise at higher speed. This isn't too intrusive, though. The ride is sporty but not particularly firm. It's comfortable on all but the most rutted roads.

    What's it like to park?

    Quite easy. There are no parking sensors, unlike rival cars, but the large mirrors and decent all-round visibility allow most manoeuvres to be completed relatively easily.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No faults.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Large doors make entering and leaving the Ibiza really easy.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Cruise control is a standard feature across the range but is invaluable for the motorway commute.