Model tested: Seat Ibiza 5dr S 1.2-litre 12V petrol 70PS
Price: £8,995
Date tested: September 2008
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 76%
Now in its fourth incarnation, the Seat Ibiza is the UK's favourite Spanish car but will the love affair continue? Adrian Higgins drove one to bring you his verdict.

1. Looks
The Ibiza's most eye-catching feature is its profile, with three swooping creases, but the front has also been revised with the arrow-design nose more prominent and grille and headlights repositioned.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The instruments are angled towards the driver and the materials feel robust. The design is functional with controls sensibly-placed and intuitive. Everything is well-positioned to make driving easy and fun.
7/10

3. Practicality
The new Ibiza is based on a new platform which is wider and longer to give 25 litres' additional boot space and a total of 292 litres. Split rear seats are included on SE and Sport versions.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
The new platform has brought improvements to the ride and handling while speed-sensitive steering ensures makes low-speed parking manoeuvres easier while requiring a heavier hand for higher speeds.
8/10

5. Performance
We found the three-cylinder 1.2-litre engine a willing city runaround and comfortable, if a little whiney, at higher speeds.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
The 1.2-litre engine falls within tax band C with emissions of 139g/km, meaning an annual bill of £120. Average fuel consumption is 47.8mpg for the 1.2-litre while insurance is group 2. Major services are required every 20,000 miles.
7/10

7. Reliability
Historically the Ibiza scores well in the Reliability Index, with the Spanish manufacturer a part of the wide-ranging Volkswagen group – which has a reputation for well-built cars.
8/10

8. Safety
The new Ibiza was awarded five stars in EuroNCAP crash tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard while ESP is an option.
8/10

9. Equipment
All Ibizas have front electric windows, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, CD player with steering column mounted controls and anti-lock brakes; air-con costs an extra £500. The SE adds 15-inch wheels, split-folding rear seats, electric rear windows and cruise control. The Sport gets 16-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and sports seats. Options include ESP, rear parking sensors and USB connection.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The Seat Ibiza is a stylish supermini which stands comparison with updated rivals.
8/10