Search: more on the Seat Ibiza Cupra
Seat models are known for their sporting appeal, but the £15,995 Ibiza Cupra is also the first model in the Volkswagen group and this sector to be fitted with the high-tech 178bhp, twin-charged 1.4-litre engine and seven-speed DSG transmission. Is it hot enough to thrill, we hit the track to find out.
Styling too subtle to be sporty?
The Ibiza Cupra gets off to a good start with its distinctive exterior looks. Styled by Director Luc Donckerwolke, (who has the Lamborghini Gallardo design on his CV) the Cupra is perhaps more subtle than models from the past. From the front, styling changes include a larger front bumper with dramatic intake design and honeycomb grilles, special Cupra badging and neat double headlamps. The sporty styling is carried on at the back with the stronger rear bumper, centre exit exhaust and rear diffuser. There's also a rear spoiler and special Cupra badging. For those who want sportier looks there's the mechanically identical £16,695 Cupra Bocanegra with its unique styling package.
My favourite part of the Ibiza's Cupra's design is still the defining slashes that run from the front and back and meet in the middle of the car. It's an original design and looks pleasingly different to other Volkswagen group cars and rivals. The Ibiza Cupra suits bolder colours better than other models in the Ibiza range and I thought the Ibiza in Chrono Yellow was particularly striking.
The inside story
Inside, there's a more bespoke feel than other Seat products. Build quality seems to be getting better and better with each new Seat model and the dashboard is attractive. I really like the supportive sports seats with their distinctive quilted trim. To add to the sporty feel, there’s also a flat-bottomed steering wheel and aluminium pedals. Shame then, that the stereo is overcomplicated and difficult to use, proof that less buttons don't always make for easier operation.
A practical hatch
The Ibiza is reasonably practical for a hot hatch. There's room for four, but taller rear passengers will find headroom at a premium. Boot space is also impressive at 292 litres, which is expandable by releasing the split/folding rear seat.
What's it like then?
There's just one engine choice for the Cupra, the 178bhp 1.4-litre TSI petrol. Previously engine of the year, performance from the supercharged and turbocharged engine is best described as energetic. The autobox at first looks out of place in a hot hatch, but flick the silky smooth seven-speed DSG gearbox into sport mode and things get more urgent with the steering wheel-mounted paddles. Although the Cupra is fitted with trick XDS traction control system, the Ibiza Cupra's handling differed according to road conditions. In the wet, there's a noticable lack of front end grip that pushes the nose wide but in the dry the turn in is pin-sharp.
