An all-new Ibiza 5-door hatchback was introduced by Seat at the Geneva Motor Show, as the Spanish brand becomes the first Volkswagen Group unit to use the new MQB A0 architecture that will be used on the next general VW Polo. In introducing the new 5-door, Seat also indicated that it is dropping the 3-door and wagon versions of this model.
“The new Seat Ibiza will make a great leap forward for the brand and it is called to set a turning point in the segment,” said Luca de Meo, chairman of the firm’s executive committee. The fifth generation of this subcompact hatchback incorporates not only new underpinnings, but also includes advanced driver assist systems seen in larger cars such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous braking and lane keeping assist. Seat is also touting the availability of advanced infotainment including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, an 8-inch touch screen and a 300-watt Beats audio system with 6 speakers.
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The styling of the new Ibiza features sharply creased and angular character lines with a pinched-in grille configuration that is similar to Lexus’ spindle design. “The new Seat Ibiza embraces Seat’s design DNA and ensures fantastic dynamic performance, said Dr. Matthias Rabe, vice president of research and development for the automaker. “In terms of comfort, it improved markedly its interior roominess and variability.”
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The all-new Ibiza features a choice of two gasoline engines including a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder with either 95 or 115 horsepower. That engine can also be ordered with a CNG option. Later, a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder making 150 horsepower will be introduced. A 1.6-liter turbodiesel putting out three states of tune from 80 to 115 horsepower will also be offered. Seat has no plans for U.S. sales.
