Seat Ibiza FR 1.4 TSI ACT, road test (Equipment, price, opinion)

We put the final full stop to the analysis of the Seat Ibiza that this week has been the star of the road test section at Highmotor. In a first article we discussed everything related to the dynamics of this small Spanish car, and after a second article analysing its interior and exterior design, it is time to close the test with a review of its equipment, price and personal opinion.

Let us recall that the Ibiza we tested has a rather “unconventional” engine. It is a 1.4 TSI with 140 CV with built-in cylinder deactivation technology.

Equipment

Our test unit, equipped with the FR trim, has quite an extensive specification. Thus, the standard equipment common to the whole Ibiza range includes items such as ESP+ASR+ABS, front and side airbags, central locking with remote control, air conditioning, CD radio with AUX input and four speakers, electric windows or steering wheel satellite controls for operating the radio.

In the case of our FR unit, the equipment is much more comprehensive. Thus, the FR trim adds to the Reference (the most basic) items such as 16-inch alloy wheels, 6 speakers, cruise control, adjustable and electrically heated and folding door mirrors, on-board computer, more advanced headlights with double reflector, fog lights, rear disc brakes, single-zone electronic climate control, rear side and rear windows with privacy glass, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.

If we review the list of optional equipment fitted to our unit, we find mixed leather-Alcantara upholstery (390€), Azul Alor custom paint (630€), 17-inch “Tagus” alloy wheels in anthracite colour, third rear head restraint (50€), Technical Package: rain sensor + anti-dazzle interior mirror + coming & leaving home lighting function + automatic light switch-on (250€), front and rear parking sensors + OPS (schematic view of the car and obstacles) (350€), interior lighting (30€), SEAT Portable System (490€), volumetric alarm + spare remote key fob (240€), bi-xenon headlights + AFS + LED front and rear lights (690€), red brake calipers (170€) and electric glass panoramic sunroof (790€).

As can be seen, this is a unit loaded with equipment. Some of the features are interesting in my opinion, but others are dispensable and will save you a bit of money; that depends on each person and their tastes.

Prices

The Seat Ibiza is currently one of the most affordable city cars on the market, as its age is beginning to show, and the brand offers generous discounts that bring the final price down. If we focus on the SC (3-door) bodywork, prices start at 12,720€ for the 1.2 60 CV Reference. The highest price, without extras or discounts, is 22,800€, corresponding to the Cupra 1.4 TSI DSG 180 CV version. Within the rest of the range, we find very balanced alternatives such as the Style 1.6 TDI 90 CV, which at 17,780€ becomes one of the most attractive versions.

If we prefer petrol, our recommendation goes to the Style 1.2 TSI 105, which starts at 17,090€. All prices should be reduced by 5,000€ thanks to the brand’s official discounts. Subsequently, at the dealership, we may find some additional discount.

Personal opinion

To close the analysis of the Ibiza, let the personal opinion of the humble writer of these lines serve as a summary. In my view, this is one of the most attractive vehicles in the city car segment. Although the years do not pass in vain and we can find more modern alternatives, the Ibiza has remained one of those “safe bets”. Its design still looks relatively fresh today, thanks to the gradual light updates that have suited it wonderfully.

Moreover, it still has a very extensive range of engines, capable of meeting the needs of the vast majority of buyers, who will find in the Ibiza a versatile, safe, easy-to-drive vehicle with complete equipment.

Photography | Daniel Valdivielso

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSEAT Ibiza14 versions · from 18,520 €