Test Seat Ibiza 1.0 TSI 110 CV

The Seat Ibiza has been the flagship model of the Martorell-based brand for the last four decades. While it's true that the Arona now surpasses it in annual sales volume, the Ibiza remains by far the best-selling car in the brand's history, with over 6 million units sold. Yes, even more than the legendary Seat 600.

This city car, manufactured in Barcelona, ​​debuted its fifth generation in 2017, meaning it's been around for a few years. Therefore, in the second half of 2021, the model was updated with a facelift, introducing equipment upgrades and subtle aesthetic changes. In this case, we tested the Seat Ibiza 1.0 TSI with 110 hp and a manual transmission , one of the most appealing options.

Is it really a restyling? changes are minimal

It's not easy to spot significant differences between the updated Ibiza and the pre-facelift versions. Keep in mind that this particular model is equipped with the Xcellence trim level , the most elegant, which Seat discontinued just a few days ago in this model in an effort to reduce CO2 emissions.

The truth is that you have to be very observant to distinguish between the previous and updated versions , looking at specific details such as the design of some new rims, the handwritten inscription of the model name on the tailgate or the new SEAT brand logo, with a matte finish in the central area and a glossy finish on the edges.

Naturally, the exterior dimensions remain unchanged , at 4,06 meters long, 1,78 meters wide, and 1,44 meters high, with a wheelbase of 2,56 meters. If there was any remaining doubt, the Seat Ibiza is clearly a B-segment model, where it competes with the Renault Clio , Peugeot 208 , VW Polo , Hyundai i20 , Skoda Fabia , Opel Corsa , and Ford Fiesta, among others.

Inside, the improvements are noticeable, especially in technology

The interior updates are far more extensive, featuring a much more technological style. The first thing to mention is the new 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster , which is customizable and offers various display options. It's optional on the mid-range trims and standard on the higher-end ones.

Similarly, the integrated touchscreen on the dashboard that we've seen until now has been replaced by a floating-style screen, which reaches up to 9,2 inches in the higher trim levels . This higher position reduces distractions and improves visibility. Incidentally, it comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Despite the larger size and prominence of this new main screen, the Seat Ibiza retains separate climate controls. A very smart move, unlike in the Leon , for example. Just below it, there's a wireless charging pad for your phone and a couple of USB-C ports.

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Some other new details that are incorporated in the restyling of the Seat Ibiza are, for example, the illuminated main air vents for the higher versions. It is not something really important, but they are one of those details that look good inside any car, especially at night.

To sum it up, the feel and appearance of the materials are generally acceptable. Obviously, it falls a step short of cars like the Volkswagen Polo, with some rattles when pressing on certain plastics and areas of the dashboard, but ultimately, this is a run-of-the-mill, everyday car from a mainstream brand . Furthermore, there are some soft-touch materials in the upper areas; you can't really expect much more in that regard.

In habitability and trunk the Ibiza is still one of the best

As you might have guessed, since it's just a facelift and the main body dimensions remain the same, there are no changes to interior space . In that respect, the Seat Ibiza performs satisfactorily, making good use of its dimensions. The front seats are spacious enough for average-sized passengers, and there are ample storage compartments.

There's also plenty of space in the second row . With the driver's seat adjusted to my height of 1,76 meters, sitting in the back I have ample leg and knee room, and I can even tuck my feet under the seat. Headroom is also quite comfortable. I think people who are 1,80 meters tall or even slightly taller could travel in the back with relative ease.

Of course, three adults will not be comfortable in the rear seats. Firstly because width is not the strong point of any of these utilities and secondly because the transmission tunnel is large and intrusive for the central occupant to place their feet.

And if we take a look at the trunk, it still offers 355 liters of space, which is plenty and easily usable thanks to its shape. It's not the largest in its class, but it's certainly one of the most spacious and practical. Keep in mind that its bigger brother, the Leon, has a capacity of 380 liters.

The engines available in the Seat Ibiza: neither diesel nor electrified

The mechanical offer of the Seat Ibiza is not too wide, since it is missing that, for example, there is a diesel option available for those customers who do many kilometers throughout the year. A pity that most brands are completely removing these options.

The most affordable engine is the 1.0 MPI three-cylinder naturally aspirated unit with 80 hp. The next step up is the 1.0 TSI with 110 hp, which is undoubtedly the preferred choice for the vast majority of Ibiza customers, available with either a manual or DSG transmission. Finally, we come to the highest-performing engine, the 1.5 TSI with 150 hp, which is only available with the 7-speed DSG.

On the other hand, the Seat Ibiza continues to offer the 1.0 TGI 90 variant , which, as you know, uses CNG as its fuel. It also has a gasoline tank, but it's small (only 9 liters), as this version is designed to get the most out of the Compressed Natural Gas system.

It's a shame that none of the petrol versions have any kind of mild hybrid system , because this means we can't have a petrol Ibiza with the DGT's Eco sticker, which is so highly valued in big cities. Only the natural gas variant receives it; the rest have the C label.

At the wheel of the Seat Ibiza

The Seat Ibiza has been characterized in the last two generations as a very complete and versatile car ; that is, it feels very agile for city driving, but at the same time conveys comfort and stability both on the highway and when facing a winding road.

The 1.0 TSI engine is the ideal, without a doubt

This mechanical version is the most recommended, the most balanced. The 1.0 TSI engine delivers its 110 hp at 5.500 rpm , although the most interesting aspect is its 200 Nm of torque between 2.000 and 3.000 rpm. Below 1.800 rpm it feels sluggish, but right at that point the turbo kicks in and it pulls quite eagerly.

In fact, to carry out a relatively happy driving, it is not necessary to take it very high in revolutions, but to prevent it from falling below 2.000. Obviously, if we want maximum performance to overtake, for example, we already have to raise it to the top, although the difference in delivery is not huge.

Probably the only drawback to this engine is that it vibrates a little at idle , and these vibrations, especially when the engine is cold, can be felt in the seat and steering wheel. Similarly, it also tends to jerk occasionally when starting from a standstill on an incline, but this is quite common with these turbocharged three-cylinder engines.

Then, on highways, it offers decent acceleration and isn't noisy or gives the impression of being "strained ." In fact, it seems very comfortable at relatively high speeds. And speaking of driving at high speeds, on the motorway, not too much wind noise reaches the cabin, always bearing in mind that it's a B-segment car.

The chassis and its balance

But a good engine isn't enough; you also need a good chassis. In this respect, the Seat Ibiza uses the Volkswagen Group's MQB A0 platform , which it shares with the Polo and Fabia, among others.

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It might not be as fun to drive as a Ford Fiesta, but in return it strikes a perfect balance between agility at high speeds and composure on the road. It handles surprisingly well in both situations. It's comfortable, stable, and agile all at once.

The only real drawback is that the steering feel doesn't quite live up to what you'd expect from a Seat, which typically offers excellent feedback. And make no mistake, compared to many of its rivals, it's not the least communicative. Of course, this increased steering assistance can always be adjusted using the driving modes available in the higher trim levels.

In the city, of course, it handles traffic very well with this engine, and the suspension works effectively to absorb the potholes , manhole covers, and speed bumps common in Spanish towns. Maneuvering is also no problem because visibility is good, and even better if, as in our case, you have parking sensors and a rearview camera.

How much does the 110 hp Seat Ibiza TSI spend

We're wrapping up this section on driving by talking about fuel consumption. During our week-long test, we averaged 6,5 liters per 100 kilometers , driving in a completely normal manner on most routes and combining city driving, highway driving, and two-lane roads.

On highway journeys at the legal speed limit (120 km/h), the trip computer will typically show an average of 6 liters per 100 km. In the city, consumption always depends on the terrain and how fast you're driving, but it's common to see figures between 7 and 7,5 liters per 100 km. Naturally, the lowest consumption will be on flat roads or ring roads, where it will barely exceed 5 liters per 100 km.

Conclusions after testing the Seat Ibiza "restyling"

We're wrapping up our test of the facelifted Seat Ibiza, tested with this popular and well-balanced engine for the Spanish supermini. Is the Ibiza a good buy? In my opinion, it's one of the cars with the best value for money in its class, the B segment.

It has good driving dynamics , is comfortable, well insulated, has good interior space, and one of the most generous trunks in its class. Furthermore, it's already a legend on Spanish roads after nearly 40 years on the market.

However, there are some details I don't quite like . For example, the fact that its exterior styling hasn't changed much in this restyling, although it's true that it still looks fresh.

The biggest drawback I see is the lack of mild hybrid gasoline engines , which would grant it the DGT's Eco label. This is a significant omission that could cost Seat some sales. The absence of a diesel option is also unwelcome, although the brand has already made it clear that demand for these engines has been minimal for the Ibiza in recent times.

Equipment Seat Ibiza 2022

References

• Eco LED Headlights
• Unintentional Lane Change Assist
• automatic city braking
• Fatigue detector
• Speed ​​limiter
• 4 airbags
• Third generation Seat Connect
• 8,25 inch touch screen with bluetooth
• automatic high beams
• Power folding mirrors
• Air Conditioning
• 15-inch steel wheels
• Multifunction steering wheel
• Three rear head restraints

Reference Plus (adds)

• cruise control
• rear parking sensors
• Fog lights
• Electric rear windows
• 40:60 split folding rear seats

Style (add to Reference)

• Full LED headlights and LED taillights
• cruise control
• Fog lights with cornering function
• Wireless Full Link
• 15-inch alloy wheels
• Leather steering wheel and gear lever
• 40:60 split rear seats

Style Plus (adds)

• Dual zone automatic climate control
• Heated mirrors
• Rain and light sensor
• Rear electric windows
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Reversing camera

FR (add to Style)

• Driving modes
• Specific suspension FR
• Dual zone automatic climate control
• Anti-glare interior mirror
• Rain and light sensor
• Rear windows
• rear parking sensors
• front armrest
• 16-inch alloy wheels (17 with TGI engine and 1.5 TSI 150)
• FR specific bumpers
• Mirrors and window frames in black
• Interior vents in burgundy color
• Indoor ambient lighting
• FR multifunction steering wheel
• headlining in black
• front armrest
• Double trunk bottom and net

FR Plus (adds)

• 9,2-inch screen with browser
• Wireless Full Link
• Front, rear and rear camera sensors
• illuminated aerators
• 10,25 inch digital box
• darkened glasses
• Adaptive cruise control
• lane keeping system
• jam assistant
• Recognition of traffic signs
• Keyless entry and start
• Wireless charger

Prices Seat Ibiza 2022

Editor's opinion

• Editor's rating
• 4.5 star rating
• Exceptional

^€16.620 a ^€27.462

• 80 %

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• Seat Ibiza
• Review of: Diego Avila
• Posted on:
• Last modification:

• Exterior design

  Publisher: 75%
• interior design

  Publisher: 75%
• front seats

  Publisher: 80%
• rear seats

  Publisher: 85%
• Trunk

  Publisher: 90%
• Spring Suspension

  Publisher: 85%
• Consumption

  Publisher: 75%
• Comfort

  Publisher: 85%
• Price

  Publisher: 70%

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Seat Ibiza Gallery

Seat Ibiza

• Plazas 5
• Power 80 - 150 hp
• Power: 80 - 150 hp
• Consumption: 5 - 5,7 kWh/100km