It may look similar, but it’s what’s under the skin that makes the real difference to the facelifted SEAT Ibiza

While SEAT is caught up with preparing a heap of new SUVs, the Spanish auto firm hasn’t disregarded its most designed model. Straight from commending its 30th commemoration and indenting up more than five million worldwide deals, the present fourth-era Ibiza has been dealt with to a midlife revive.

• Best superminis to purchase now

Indeed, even after the landing of new confronted opponents, for example, the Mazda 2 and new Vauxhall Corsa, the present model has never been deficient in showroom offer – subsequently outside tinkering has been left to a base. SE spec models or more now get new LED daytime running lights, while the developing pattern for evermore customisation alternatives has incited SEAT into including an entire host of personalisation elements over the ext.

What’s more, that is pretty much too, on the grounds that the Ibiza remains a superbly wonderful auto to drive. The Ibiza has dependably sat at the sportier end of the supermini market, not exactly treading on the toes of the chuckable Fiesta however much more amusing than a Corsa and even the Polo. This redesigned adaptation has seen changes to the electric controlling to make it more keen, while re-tuned spring and dampers have taken the edge off the somewhat firm ride.

It makes progress with more balance than the past model yet can’t exactly coordinate the Polo regarding a more develop driving background, squirming ever so marginally over broken city boulevards. The controlling still does not have the certainty of the Fiestas, yet it has a strong weight with enough feel through your fingertips to tell you what’s going ahead underneath you.

The more cleaned character is being pushed along by another force source, as well. A shiny new scope of motors made up of punchy 1.0-liter three-barrel normally suctioned and turbo engines and also new three-chamber diesels promising in abundance of 80mpg have been added to the extent. We attempted the eco-based 94bhp 1.0-liter turbo adaptation combined with a five-rate manual gearbox – the same powertrain utilized as a part of the Polo Bluemotion – and found that economy of 68.9mpg doesn’t have a go at to the detriment of satisfaction.

The new three-barrel inhales another lease of life into Ibiza regarding execution, with its innately nippy and exuberant character. It can turn out to be a bit reluctant at the lower end of the rev reach and it pulls eagerly, with the smart five-pace gearbox gaining ground far smoother than some time recently. Even better, this is the main petrol-fueled Ibiza to plunge underneath the 100g/km hindrance with CO2 emanations of 94g/km, and over the mechanically indistinguishable VW Polo comes it accompanies an extensive £1,600 spa.

Key specs

Model: SEAT Ibiza 1.0 SE
Price: £13,875
Engine: 1.0-litre 3 cyl turbo, 94bhp

Transmission: Five-speed manual, front wheel drive
0-62mph/top speed: 10.4 seconds/119mph
Economy/CO2: 68.9mpg/94g/km