This month the Spanish automaker introduces a new pricing strategy for their best selling hot hatch, the new SEAT Ibiza. Both the Ibiza FR and Cupra models see a saving of just over a grand each against the outgoing models, while the 1.2 12V 3-door entry-level model has its list price frozen at £7,550.
The 2006 Ibiza, available from mid April, offers a restyled front end, bigger wheels and an upgraded exhaust that SEAT says, "shouts hot hatch" but we think it is more of a whisper. Although both the Cupra and the FR models can stand up and be counted in the hot hatch market with powerful engines (178bhp and 148bhp respectively), the subtly styled 2006 range offers more of a cost save than anything else. If SEAT could have transferred more of what was seen on its ubercool Ibiza Vaillante concept (
2006 Geneva Motor Show) then the result would have been much more attractive. The Vaillante's gaping front bumper, flared arches and huge wheels were obviously too aggressive for the mass European market, but we can only dream of what could have been as the Vaillante will sadly not hit the production line.
Waiting for the new SEAT Ibiza will be worthwhile due to the savings offered but you won't get a great deal different from the outgoing models. It smacks of the development team in Spain being given the brief of giving the Ibiza a makeover and only have enough cash for some lippy and mascara.
Paul Wilkinson - 7 Mar 2006