The new Ibiza bursts onto the scene full of energy and youthful dynamism, but true to its origins. It’s an innovative proposal whose precision quality, sportiness and new “Arrow Design” concept combine perfectly with high levels of safety and comfort. The car shows how well the new platform developed by the VW Group for this segment adapts to the Spanish maker’s newcomer.
To be produced exclusively in the Martorell facilities, the most modern technologies have been applied on the new generation Ibiza in all the manufacturing stages, resulting in a development time shortened by 14 months compared to the previous Ibiza and featuring the use of virtual models in the initial stage, instead of the traditional physical models.
The most significant result of this has not only been reduced lead times and lower expenses, but the enhancement of one of the values that SEAT applies to all its models, namely quality, which has reached its highest level on the new Ibiza.
Paying special attention to detail, both on the exterior as well as the interior of the car, several elements can be found on the new Ibiza that have been crafted with exquisite care, for example the detailing on the dashboard, the instrument panel, the new ventilation nozzles or the central console, where the newly designed radio includes a Bluetooth connection that can be activated via controls on the steering column.
Externally, the new “Arrow Design” concept makes a bold statement, where the headlights and radiator grille’s lower positioning provide a sportier, more forceful silhouette. These qualities are also present in the modified “Dynamic Line” that makes an impressive sweep across the side of the car. The robust rear shoulders and attractive wheel arches complete the design of the new Ibiza, the first production model created by SEAT’s Design Director Luc Donckerwolke.
New platform
The novel platform used on the new Ibiza lengthens the car’s wheelbase by 7 mm and widens the track, 30 mm more at the front and 33 mm more on the rear. This has led to modifications to the steering gear, front sub-chassis, stabiliser bar, lower transversal arms and the silent-blocks that attach to the body.
The greater distance between the axles and greater diameter wheels have also contributed to the significant evolution of the characteristic “Agile Chassis” concept, which affects the performance of suspension, steering and brakes.
All of these changes provide the new SEAT model with enhanced dynamic qualities, greater driving comfort, more room and more practicality. Besides, an 8% increase in boot space makes it among the leaders in its segment, with a total capacity of 292 litres (25 more than the previous Ibiza.)
Environmental sustainability
The new Ibiza features outstanding environmental friendliness – it can be almost fully recycled and its CO2 emissions have been lowered across the board. All Diesel engine emissions levels are below 120 g/km, while on the petrol versions the figure is below 160 g /km.
A lot of time has also been dedicated to safety, with demanding virtual simulations, real crash tests and more than two million kilometres of gruelling road tests. The addition of a standard head-thorax airbag increases passenger safety on the new Ibiza, and pedestrian safety has been improved with a newly-designed bonnet and front bumper.
Furthermore, the 2008 Ibiza offers standard ESP electronic stability in selected markets such as Spain and Germany, as well as Hill Hold Control, which maintains the vehicle stationary on slopes for two seconds between releasing the brake pedal and accelerating. A static cornering light function on the fog lamps is also available, which improves visibility when turning corners, or at speeds lower than 40 km/h.
Other important new features very well worth mentioning are the powerful Bi-xenon headlamps with AFS (Adaptive Frontlighting System), rear parking sensors, a radio-integrated Bluetooth connection or the pre-installation in the middle of the dashboard of a handy dock to connect a portable satnav system.
Although the initial engine range features three petrol versions (70 hp 1.2; 85 hp 1.4 and 105 hp 1.6) and one Diesel option with the DPF particulate filter (105 hp 1.9 TDI), the range will soon expand to include the 80 hp 1.4 TDI and 90 hp 1.9 TDI. All the engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The new Ibiza will be available with three trim levels – Reference, Stylance and Sport, with an outstanding standard equipment level even from the entry-level model.
VIRTUAL DEVELOPMENT
Higher quality, shorter lead times and reduced expenses
Only 23 months for development
New internal and external work processes
Reduced number of physical models for time savings and lower expenses
The use of virtual models in the design stage of the new Ibiza has made it possible to analyse different options and make better decisions. This has resulted in the need for fewer physical models and a significant reduction in time and expenses, and the physical models used are more for checking than for decision-making.
Compared to the development of the former Ibiza, which was based on prototype and checking stages, the new model uses hi-tech virtual development for each of the car’s most significant parts, using computer-assisted tools with the help of virtual simulations.
There has been a significant cut in development time of 14 months between the former model and the new Ibiza, from project approval to the start of mass production, or down from 37 to 23 months, thanks to the use of virtual tools, an optimised experimentation stage and the implementation of new internal and supplier work processes.
The virtual tools helped assure meeting the car’s technical objectives in the initial development phase and predict its behaviour in several different situations – crash test, streamlining, rigidity, comfort, etc. Based on the results, improvements were designed, introduced into the project, and confirmed with experimental results in real tests.
These tools meant that 65% of the problems during development were detected before building the first prototype, thereby delivering a guarantee of higher quality in the early stages of the project. As a result, fewer problems arose in the pre-production stage.
At the same time, during the project development of the new Ibiza a new work process was implemented with technological suppliers for the car’s most important parts (door panels, instrument panel, headlights, taillights, etc.). It works like this: Each element was assigned to two pre-development suppliers through public offer, who worked with SEAT during the concept development phase. When the next phase was ready to begin, one of the two candidates was chosen as development and production supplier.
PRODUCTION
Quality and competitiveness are the main objectives
New production system based on staff qualification
The Prototype Development Centre, key element in the improvements achieved
Manufacturing time reduced by six hours
Quality is an essential characteristic of the new Ibiza and clearly sets it apart from its rivals.
Thanks to the implementation of the SEAT Production System (SPS), quality objectives and competitiveness are guaranteed through staff motivation and performance and the application of continuous improvements throughout every process. The efficiency of the new Ibiza’s manufacturing processes has increased by 30%, meaning a six hour reduction to manufacture SEAT’s newest model.
The entire staff team involved in the production of the new Ibiza has been given theoretical and practical training outside the assembly line in purpose-built facilities on all aspects relating to quality standards and key production points. Ideal conditions were reproduced at each work station for special production process preparation areas – tools, parts supply and layout, sequencing, etc.
Inaugurated in July 2005, the Prototype Development Centre, which houses the know-how, staff and resources of the Martorell Technical Centre and the Martorell Engineering Processes Pilot Workshop under the same roof, has decidedly contributed to the success of the development and industrialisation stages of the new Ibiza. By optimising the Simultaneous Engineering processes, it has actively collaborated in reducing the time needed from design definition to manufacturing to a mere 23 months.
For the first time, the activities related to the development of prototypes in their virtual and physical stages have been concentrated at the Prototype Development Centre. Around 300 engineers work in the facilities which total 16,850 square metres.
New logistics concept
A new logistics concept has been introduced into the manufacturing process of the new Ibiza for the supply of components to the assembly lines via small parts warehouses. This way the arrival of small quantities of parts is synchronised with need. Stocks are reduced, space is optimised at the assembly line, supply conditions are adapted to the ergonomics of each work station, parts flow is rationalised and greater quality is guaranteed by avoiding assembly mistakes.
Technological metal pressing innovations have been introduced on the new Ibiza in order to optimise investments and reduce operating costs. The number of exterior part stamping has been lowered to five, while the necessary sets of moulds have also been reduced, so now all four doors of the new Ibiza can be stamped simultaneously.
SEAT is one of the pioneer Volkswagen Group brands in introducing standardised, flexible sheet metal facilities, a plant which has increased its area by 12,600 square metres to accommodate the new Ibiza. These facilities make it possible to produce up to three different car bodies at the same time, changing from one to the other within manufacturing time.
The arrival of the new Ibiza also coincides with four essential advantages in the rail transportation process of the finished cars from the Martorell factory to the port of Barcelona – it reduces truck traffic congestion, improves efficiency and safety, reduces CO2 emissions, and contributes to road safety.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
New “Arrow Design” concept
Distinctly innovative geometric lines that ooze sportiness
New headlight and grille position lends a more aggressive look to the front end
New “Dynamic Line” has evolved into a more forceful statement
The modern, ground-breaking design of the new Ibiza stems from a new design language. The car’s imposing sportiness is highlighted by its “Arrow Design”, which resorts to simpler, more defined geometric lines that create both balance and aesthetic continuity.
The front end looks much more aggressive due to the positioning of the captivating eye-shaped headlights and the radiator grille. Both elements have been lowered, conferring an arrowhead design which is characteristic of the new car.
In the design concept of the new Ibiza, SEAT Design Director Luc Donckerwolke underlines that “there is greater tension on the car’s body surface treatment, with incisive concavities that create reduced colour shades.” He recognises that on the new body “there are more surface nuances and more obvious lettering.”
There is a highly important new element in the design of the Ibiza that emphasises the car’s sporty nature – the distinct shoulder line that rises over the rear wheel arch to convey more strength to the rear of the vehicle. The robust shoulders stand out visually over the striking wheel arches.
The “Dynamic Line” that personalises the silhouette of SEAT’s current model range lends special significance to the new Ibiza. Compared to the others, this one is a distinct line that begins at the hatch on the side of the body and the rear lights, creating a perfect visual continuity with the line of the boot, and contrasts with the line that runs lengthwise from the front end over the doors and downward to finish in the centre of the rear wheel arch.
According to Luc Donckerwolke, “this Dynamic Line is different and lends greater balance to the car’s volumes.”
Furthermore, the sporty looks and clearly youthful image surrounding the new Ibiza are emphasised by the door mirrors located beneath the base of the windows and the efficient air intake underneath the bumper.
INTERIOR CONCEPT
Design and functionality
Sportier driving position
Driver-oriented dashboard
Greater quality materials and precision fit elements
The philosophy applied to the design of the interior is based on facing all the instruments toward the driver to create a sporty atmosphere to match the car’s exterior. At the same time, the shape of the surfaces lets in enough light to set the interior mood, creating a perfect balance in the passenger compartment between functionality and design.
The interior dimensions are uncluttered, resulting in greater roominess and practicality. The first thing that draws your attention is the sporty driving position, which has been lowered by 22 mm compared to the previous model. Now there is a distance of 986 mm (20 mm more) to the ceiling for both the driver and passenger, and 60 mm (16 mm more) from the head to the area where the ceiling and the doors meet.
Since the vehicle is 99 mm longer, the boot capacity is 292 litres (25 litres greater than on the previous Ibiza. On selected versions, the side lining includes a storage net for small objects, and a recess with a strap to hold the light bulb case. Surrounding the lock there is also a recess and restraints for the emergency triangles, and there are four further optional anchoring rings to attach a restraining net.
The newly designed, sporty dashboard features a driver-oriented instrument panel with two large circular dials for easy visual access.
Some areas on the dashboard are soft to the touch. They are located away from the windscreen and feature a broader colour range, including light shades. There are also a lot more painted components compared to the previous model, including metallic tones. The new circular air nozzles guarantee an ideal air flow direction for greater passenger compartment comfort.
Wide offer of colours and interior design
The new generation Ibiza comes with a great variety of interior design concepts and colours. The entry level Reference version uses Conemara Grey and Azabache Black on the softpad to match the door panels, Carbon Black on the visor, Grafito Grey on the dashboard body and Nano Grey on the ventilation nozzles.
The Stylance trim focuses on Black and Dublin Grey for the passenger softpad, Nano Grey on the visor and the nozzles, and Grafito Grey on the dashboard body.
The range’s sportiest Sport version also features Black and Dublin Grey for the softpad and the area surrounding the ventilation nozzle between the steering wheel and the door, Nano Grey for the visor and air nozzles and Carbon Black for the dashboard body.
SEAT has carefully chosen the materials that make up the dashboard and improved the development of the textures, which are now more scratch resistant and easier to clean. In general, the visual impact is much greater than on the previous Ibiza.
Portable navigator pre-installation
A new feature on the Ibiza is the possibility of connecting a portable satnav system thanks to the pre-installation ‘dock’ which is located in the centre of the dash above the ventilation nozzles. This eliminates the need for cables and suction cups to keep it in place on the windscreen.
The handy location of the integrated satnav dock gives easy access for both the driver and passenger. Currently there is an adaptor available for the Tom Tom One V3, while in future customers will be able to dock other satnav systems.
There is also the possibility of installing a combined USB/Aux-in connection on the dashboard, which is compatible with an iPod®, audio MP3 or similar, and data storage devices.
The iPod® can be controlled from the new radio controls located on the steering column, which include volume adjustment, channel finder, audio CD-MP3 and external device control, and direct access to the Menu (Mode), which processes all the information contained in the external devices, created files, telephone, radio, CD, MP3, etc.
For greater comfort, the steering column controls feature a small wheel in the centre that activates options intuitively. There is also a slot on the console for an iPod®, and a 12 volt socket.
Practical central console
The buttons on the centre console include air conditioning functions, hazard lights, door locking/unlocking, ESP disconnection, tyre pressure, seat heater and a warning to indicate if the passenger airbag is disconnected.
There are also three object holders, and each one is suitable for housing an ashtray, as well as a lower side recess for a mobile phone. On the driver side there is a compartment beneath the light switch, and an integrated drawer can be optionally installed beneath the glove compartment to hold an umbrella and emergency high visibility vest. In the lining of the lower A pillar, which is a single piece along with the sill (on the previous Ibiza there were two pieces) there is also a storage bag.
The shape of the front seats follows a modern design. With optimised hardness the sides give much greater support, the covers contain no PVC, the seats feature side stitching and there are two compartments on the rear backrest (optional on Reference) and two optional storage drawers beneath.
A further novelty on the new Ibiza is the front central armrest, which is optional on all versions. It has a fabric cover and contains a handy storage compartment in the interior. Its position and height have been studied to optimise comfort and the lid folds open 90 degrees.
BODY
A more lightweight, more rigid structure
Body parts use 60% high resistance or very high resistance steel
Weight is reduced by 5% or 47 kg on average
95% of the vehicle can be recycled
The right balance between rigidity and weight reduction (47 kg down, on average) has been achieved in the development of the sheet metal body parts of the new Ibiza thanks to the 60% use of high and very high resistance steel (5% more than on the previous Ibiza) on the highest load-bearing areas. At the same time, this delivers greater energy efficiency and material savings during both production and the car’s useful life.
The use of heat-stamped pieces on the B pillar has made it possible to reduce weight and complexity, while the introduction of laminated profiles in the development of the A pillar and sill has increased the quality and dimensional stability of the parts.
Laser welding has also been applied on the body of the new Ibiza to join the roof with the flanks, like on the former model, but extended all the way to the seam that joins the A pillar and the windscreen. The use of adhesives has been increased by 50%, maintaining the same number of welding points.
Optimised manufacturing processes
The commitment to achieve increasingly demanding and complex design concepts has directly influenced the optimisation of technological applications during manufacturing processes, specifically the area of the front mudguard attached to the front end, the area of the taillights and the water duct, where parts that are difficult to stamp have been created, and the boot, where the floor and the stamping depth of the rear wall have led to greater volume.
Thanks to the rust protection measures applied to the body of the new Ibiza, SEAT can offer a three-year corrosion guarantee against surface rust and a twelve-year guarantee against perforation rust. Such protection is the result of applying surface treatments, sealants to protect the body and the undercarriage, and waxing cavities.
Unlike the previous Ibiza, the surface coatings applied are water-based, which reduces the emissions of volatile organic compounds and eliminates paint toxicity during the painting process. The paint composition has been modified and is now a dual compound that increases weather protection and enhances gloss.
Undercarriage protection has been improved with the introduction of streamlining that has reduced the use of PVC by 2.6 kg while increasing the possibility of recycling (95% of the new SEAT Ibiza can be recycled). Furthermore, structural cavities have been additionally insulated, resulting in water tightness and better acoustics.
New panoramic sunroof
The new Ibiza can be equipped with a panoramic sunroof that covers the entire width of the roof, from the windscreen to beyond the B pillar. It is 130% larger than on the previous Ibiza, with a solid frame around the glass. Its dimensions let in 78% more light than on the former model. The sunroof has is controlled by a switch on the dashboard and also has a manual window blind to regulate the amount of light entering the passenger compartment.
The newly designed front has been structurally optimised, and thanks to demanding manufacturing processes, it has undergone a 10% weight reduction while considerably improving pedestrian safety.
The door concept is the same as on the Altea and León models. Its main characteristic focuses on the Door Module, which integrates all functions – window mechanism in the internal lining, lock, speakers, electrical wiring and water tightness systems in a single part. This concept has been optimised to achieve the perfect balance between the doors’ functional aspects and weight.
The door mirrors are cleverly placed to offer clear, vibration-free vision using high resistance steel on the elements that attach them to the interior protection bar.
SAFETY
Protected inside and outside
New passenger protection airbag setup
Demanding virtual simulations and real crash tests
Defined bonnet and bumpers enhance pedestrian protection
Safety aspects on the new Ibiza have been carefully studied since the beginning of the project. Its uniform structure of links and profiles meets the established objectives, after simulations and real tests, of achieving a balanced deformation of its structure. This prevents passenger contact with structural elements that could cause injuries in the event of a rollover.
Fully equipped
The new Ibiza features two airbag setups – one standard, which includes side head-thorax airbags and two front airbags; and alternative equipment which includes side thorax-pelvis airbags and head airbags.
The safety concept has been considerably enhanced on the new generation Ibiza. One key area is the development of a new driver airbag module, focusing efforts on improving the airbag’s performance under extreme temperature conditions. Results are a weight reduction and less complexity than on the previous model.
Since the deployment area on the lining is seamless and invisible to the eye, also the looks of the dashboard has improved in case of the passenger airbag.
The new Ibiza also features a fasten seatbelt warning system for the front seats, and Isofix anchoring points for the rear seats, enabling two child seats to be securely fastened. A complementary accessory is the possibility of installing a third anchoring point called Top Tether, which prevents the child seat from rotating in the event of a crash.
Active safety elements on the new Ibiza include ABS, TCS and ESP with EBA and tyre pressure warning.
Demanding crash tests
Crash tests were used in the development programme of the new Ibiza at an impact speed of 64 km/h, instead of the usual 56 km/h. Another area of active and passive safety examined was the restraining systems.
Rear crash tests were even more gruelling, with a speed of impact of 50 km/h instead of 38 km/h, while the mass of the impact beam was also increased.
High resistance steel was used on the side protection bars of the doors and at waist height, which contributes to protecting passengers in the event of a side impact.
The wholly new steering column is more ergonomic, weighs less, performs better in case of impact and is more rigid, increasing the sensation of comfort and quality. The total weight is one kg less than on the former model. This has been achieved through design improvements and the addition of greater support on the transversal beam.
The steering column ergonomics have been generally improved by placing the plastic lever that adjusts its position on the side, rather than underneath, providing an important 9 mm more space for the driver’s knees in the event of a crash.
Increased pedestrian safety
Pedestrian protection is one area of safety that has been particularly closely studied on the new Ibiza. The two zones on the car that are more prone to cause injuries to a pedestrian’s head and lower legs are the bonnet and the bumper.
The bonnet features two areas of maximum energy absorption where the risk of causing head injuries is the greatest. On the whole, the great distance between the bumper and its crossbeam but no distance between the bumper and its rear support both contribute to protecting the legs in the event of collision. The former guarantees that the knee avoids impact and at the same time advances forward and reduces its acceleration. The latter implies that the resulting zone is very rigid (the spoiler beneath the bumper) and not prone to deformation, so a leg impact prevents the shinbone from advancing.
The combination of both features causes reduced angles related to the femur/shinbone, much less than 15 degrees, which implies that a pedestrian’s legs are better protected.
The SEAT Ibiza has been put through more than two million kilometres of endurance tests, and the resulting data has been analysed at the Martorell Technical Centre as the basis for introducing improvements to the new model during its development.
CHASSIS
Standard ESP
Wider tracks and greater wheel diameter
Improved “Agile Chassis”
Significant modifications to steering and brake systems
There are four factors that directly influence the sportiness of the new SEAT Ibiza – wider tracks, greater distance between axles, larger diameter wheels and a substantial improvement to the Agile Chassis concept that affects all the elements and systems anchored to it such as suspensions, steering and brakes.
Add standard ESP electronic stability to these (in selected markets), which was first available in this segment on the Ibiza Cupra in 2000, and TCS traction control, and the response of the new SEAT Ibiza in any situation is extraordinary.
TCS acts on the engine management to prevent the wheels from skidding on slick surfaces. Furthermore, the new Ibiza is also equipped with EBA brake assistance, which increases braking power in emergency situations, taking advantage of the system’s full capacity.
Enhanced dynamic qualities
The new track width has directly influenced the need to carry out modifications to both axles. The front axle is 30 mm wider, which prompted modifications to the steering gear, the front sub-chassis, stabiliser bar, both lower transversal arms and the drive shaft ball joint.
On the former Ibiza, the front sub-chassis included three separate parts, the main central body and two lateral auxiliary parts. On the new Ibiza, the sub-chassis is a single part and provides tighter specifications to the area where it is attached to the body and on the lower crossbeams, resulting in improved kinematic precision.
The assembly including the ball joint and transversal arm has displaced the centre of the wheel by five mm, increasing the distance between shafts and enabling the use of wheels with 2% more diameter.
The new transversal arms are attached to the sub-chassis with a different silentblock, which gives the front shaft greater agility.
On the coil/shock absorber assembly, a new washer corrects the position and the movement of the coil spring while the hydraulic shock absorber’s internal valves improve road handling and driving comfort.
The main difference on the rear shaft is also related to the wider track. The 33 mm increase has resulted in a different setup and the need for new silentblocks to join it to the body.
To complement the adaptations made arising from the wider tracks and the new position of the hydraulic pump, the EPHS (Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering) system’s characteristic assistance curves have been modified to achieve greater sensitivity, reduced catch up, optimised handling, less parking effort and a greater difference between the basic and sporty characteristics.
Two distinct chassis ratings
The new generation Ibiza features two different ratings for the chassis, one that focuses on comfort and the other on sportier performance. The modifications affect both the front and rear shafts and the steering gear.
The main differences on the front shaft centre on the ratings of the shock absorbers, which develop variable compression and extension depending on speed; the coils, which are around 25% stiffer than on the comfort version, and the stabiliser bar, whose diameter on the sporty version has increased from 18 to 19 mm.
On the rear shaft, the link is 15% stiffer and the silent-blocks that anchor them to the body have been modified, providing more agile, more precise handling. Finally, the software that regulates assistance to the steering gear also varies, and is stiffer on the sporty version.
All the new Ibiza versions can come equipped with one of either chassis set-ups, although the Reference and Stylance trims feature the normal chassis as standard and the Sport finish comes with the sporty chassis.
Efficient brake system
The brake callipers on the new Ibiza guarantee more rigidity and less noise. On the versions equipped with the 105 hp TDI engine, the disc brakes measure 15 inches instead of the 14 inches of the previous version, to improve efficiency.
On left-hand drive versions, the brake servo diameter has been increased, which greatly improves braking smoothness.
The wider tracks and the greater distance between shafts have made it possible to install larger diameter wheels. The new Ibiza is available with 185/60 R15 tyres on 15 inch rims, 215/45 R16 tyres on 16 inch rims and 215/40 R17 tyres on 17 inch rims.
The three pedals have also been modified. Whereas before the support mechanism was steel, now it is high resistance plastic on all three. This leads to a weight reduction (from 925 to 641 grams) and prevents rusting. The clutch pedal has been optimised to offer greater sensitivity.
ENGINES
Clean and economical
Model launch includes three petrol and one Diesel engine
Less fuel consumption than previous generation
Diesel engine range CO2 emissions below 120 g/km
Although the engine line-up on the new SEAT Ibiza will gradually increase, the initial offer includes four different versions – three petrol and one Diesel. Each one is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and follows the strict EU4 emission guidelines.
The entry-level 1.2 litre petrol engine has a three cylinder block, a cylinder head with four valves per cylinder and multi-point fuel injection. It develops 70 hp (51 kW) and its maximum engine torque is 112 Nm at 3,000 rpm, giving it exceptional fuel consumption and performance levels. Average fuel consumption is 5.9 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions are listed at 139 g/km.
The intermediate 1.4 litre petrol engine has four cylinders, a cylinder head with 16 valves and multi-point fuel injection. It delivers 85 hp (63 kW) and its maximum engine torque is 132 Nm at 3,800 rpm. As with the smallest engine, this one strikes a perfect balance between performance, consumption and emissions. Average fuel consumption is 6.2 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions are listed at 149 g/km.
The most powerful, four cylinder 1.6 litre petrol engine also has 16 valves and multi-point fuel injection. It delivers 105 hp (77kW) and 153 Nm of engine torque at 3,800 rpm. Despite its higher performance, fuel consumption is still contained at 6.6 litres, and CO2 emissions fall beneath 160 g at 157 g/km.
105 hp 1.9 TDI engine
The only Diesel engine available for the moment is the 1.9 litre four cylinder TDI equipped with a direct fuel pump-injection system enhanced with an Intercooler turbo. It develops 105 hp (77 kW) and delivers a maximum torque of 240 Nm at 1,900 rpm. It features a DPF particulate filter and consumes 4.5 litres on average for every 100 km, and maintains CO2 emissions at 119 g/km.
Future additions to the Diesel range will include the 80 hp 1.4 TDI and the 90 hp 1.9 TDI, both equipped with the DPF particulate filter.
Newly positioned Intercooler
The new Ibiza’s platform has allowed engineers to reposition the Intercooler at the front, compared to at the side on the former model. Its efficiency has improved sharply in terms of size, weight and position. The new Intercooler is larger, with a volume of 3.44 litres compared to the 2.92 litres of the previous model. It weighs 1.2 kg (compared to 1.9 kg) and its intake and exit temperature is 7 degrees Celsius higher.
The work carried out on the five-speed manual gearboxes mated to the four engines in the new Ibiza range contribute to optimising fuel consumption and emissions.
The new gear ratios programmed and the optimisation of the engine’s electronic management have led to lower engine speeds without reducing the car’s dynamic qualities.
ELECTRONICS
Intelligent solutions
New Hill Hold Control and Tyre Pressure Warning as standard
Bi-xenon headlamps with AFS technology and foglamps with cornering function
New radio with steering column controls and Bluetooth technology
The fourth generation SEAT Ibiza features a generous new standard equipment level with several outstanding solutions aimed at satisfying customer needs.
Thanks to the addition of standard ESP in selected markets, the 2008 Ibiza offers the Hill Hold Control rollback assistant, where the car remains stationary on a slope for two seconds when the brake pedal is released before accelerating. This prevents the car from rolling back or forward on a slope and is handy when manoeuvring.
Sweeping bi-xenon headlights
The new Ibiza also features Bi-xenon headlights with AFS (Adaptive Frontlighting System) technology for the first time in this segment, improving the car’s lighting system with two functions – sweeping headlights and daylight driving light.
The first greatly increases visibility around corners, since the headlight beam sweeps in the turn direction according to steering wheel angle and speed, while the second function, located outside the headlights, works as a signal to reduce pedestrian injuries by making the car much more visible.
The new Ibiza is also equipped with the static cornering light function on the foglamps, which greatly improves visibility on corners when the sidelights come on at speeds lower than 40 km/h. The system is automatically activated with the corresponding indicator signal or when the steering wheel exceeds a certain angle.
The new Ibiza also includes the Coming Home function already seen on other SEAT models, which turns on the dipped beams for 30 seconds after removing the key from the ignition.
Rear parking assistance
The new generation Ibiza also features rear parking sensors which send a beep to warn of obstacles at the rear through four ultrasound devices located on the rear bumper.
The driver hears an intermittent beep when the car is put in reverse, and the sensors begin measuring from 0.6 metres at the side and 1.6 metres at the rear of the car. When the distance shortens to about 30 cm, the beeping is continuous.
Radio-integrated Bluetooth connection
Another highlight of the fourth generation Ibiza is the new “black panel” radio, which gets its name from its looks. Attractive and highly functional, the new radio features a sophisticated Bluetooth telephone system which directly influences driver and passenger comfort and safety.
The sound system includes two bass speakers on the front doors, two tweeters next to the windscreen and two full range speakers on the rear doors.
Depending on the make and model of mobile telephone, the available functions include Signal strength/Call option; Voice dialling, Accept/Reject calls and Microphone On/Off (mute).
New control equipment
To handle both systems, SEAT has developed a new control with all the functions centralised in a single lever located on the steering column – volume adjustment, channel locater, audio CD-MP3 and external devices, direct access to the Menu (Mode) where all the information listed in files and stored in the external devices can be accessed, as well as the radio and the telephone.
There is also a small wheel in the centre that makes it easy to control several radio options such as channel finder, files and CD song selection.
The new SEAT Ibiza also offers a combined USB and Aux-in connection installation that is compatible with an iPod®, MP3 audio or similar systems and data storage devices.
The instrument panel features a new multi-function screen with a wide range of information for the driver such as fuel level, clock, trip computer, outside temperature, distance remaining until the next service appointment, etc.
The new Ibiza also features a new folding key with three functions – door locking and opening, and boot opening.
A complete offer
RANGE
Three available trim levels – Reference, Stylance and Sport
ESP + four airbags as standard
Each trim level features different upholstery design and textures
The new Ibiza range boasts a complete equipment level even from the entry model Reference, which features standard ESP, head-thorax airbag, Hill Hold Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, MP3, Aux-in connection, steering column controls, front power windows, remote controlled central locking and fasten seatbelts warning, among others.
Each trim level comes with its own, exclusive selection of two different upholstery and linings options.
