SEAT Ibiza Cupra Review and Prices

The biggest improvement over the old model is the engine – it’s now a 1.8-litre with a  broad spread of pulling power and impressive fuel economy that make it a  much better engine than the old 1.4-litre it replaces. The only downside is the muted exhaust note – this is supposed to be a sporty-sounding hot hatch, after all

If the sound disappoints, the drive will not. The Cupra now comes as standard with adjustable dampers that can flick from comfy to stiff at the press of a button – making it one of the easiest cars in the class to live with day in, day out. Also new for this model is a traction control system that operates like a differential – sending power to the front wheel with the most grip for excellent grip when powering out of corners.

The Ibiza’s big selling point it that it blends the performance with a practical, hatchback body shape – it has space for four adults, though the back seat is a little cramped, and a decent-sized boot. Being a car from the VW Group, the dashboard also has a clear layout and solid switchgear.

A standout feature is the increased connectivity of the infotainment system – it can mirror most smartphone apps and display them on the car’s screen. Other than that the Ibiza Cupra has the same supportive front sport seats and cramped rear ones as the pre-facelift model.

Sitting at the top of the Ibiza range, the Cupra is well-equipped from the factory with bi-xenon headlamps, tinted windows, 17-inch alloy wheels plus climate and cruise control.

It might not scamper through corners quite like a Fiesta ST, but the new Ibiza ST is the easier car to live with

It’s a strong looker in a sea of relatively mundane hatchbacks but, as a hot hatch, the Ibiza Cupra has some shortcomings. The lack of an automatic gearbox may put some buyers off for a start, though the manual is much more involving and adds another layer to the driving experience.

It’s really how it drives that will prove the deal-breaker because it’s just not that much fun to thread down a good driving road. Still, if you’re doing lots of motorway miles it’s far less harsh than rival offerings. The slightly larger VW Polo GTI addresses the Cupra’s shortage of rear seat space, while for ultimate driving fun the Ford Fiesta ST is still unbeatable.