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The SEAT Ibiza supermini has been refreshed, and its looks tweaked to keep it current. The grille has been re-profiled to accentuate the width of the car and give it a more sporting stance, and the Ibiza also wears newly designed bumpers front and rear.

Inside, fit and finish has been improved, and the dials have been redesigned for enhanced clarity.

Making its debut on the Ibiza is the SEAT Portable Media System. Featuring a touchscreen monitor, it acts as the car's on-board computer, sat-nav, audio system and telephone hands-free device. It can be removed from the car for use on the move.

The Ibiza will be available in three body styles: three-and five-door and an estate - and with a range of petrol and diesel engines. The most economical is the 1.2-litre TDI E Ecomotive, which not only emits CO2 at a tax-free 89g/km, but should also manage 69mpg.

At the other end of the scale is the performance-oriented 1.4 TSI twincharged engine. Developing 148bhp - enough for a 0-62mph sprint of 7.8 seconds, it will be available as standard with DSG dual-clutch transmission. All engines are now fitted with fuel saving stop and start as standard.

Drivers keen for more performance will have to wait for the hot Cupra edition, details for which will not be announced until mid-2012.

Three trim levels will be available. Whilst the entry level Reference model may be lacking in kit, SEAT hasn't removed any key safety features, so it will come with ESP and an XDS electronic differential lock on more powerful versions.

'Style' models will come with air-con as standard, and the range topping FR trim adds sporty styling details including a leather steering wheel and a unique alloy wheel design.

Prices and full specifications for the new Ibiza have yet to be announced, but are expected to stay close to the current model. More details will follow closer to the model's launch in the spring.

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