Updated SEAT Ibiza: a major interior overhaul

Introduced in 2017, the current generation of the SEAT Ibiza now gains a welcome refresh, with the biggest talking point being the cabin, which has been thoroughly reworked.

Exterior updates for the SEAT Ibiza

From the outside, however, there is very little to distinguish it. Aside from LED headlights now coming as standard across the range (with Full LED available as an option), the main novelties are limited to the new cursive model script on the tailgate - first seen on the Tarraco and already used on the latest Leon - plus a SEAT badge finished in two shades of chrome (gloss and matt). Naturally, there are also newly designed 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels.

A redesigned cabin for the SEAT Ibiza

Back inside, the new dashboard is impossible to miss. Its layout follows the approach we have already seen on the Leon, most notably in the placement of the central air vents and the infotainment display, which appears reversed compared with the Ibiza we knew before.

As a result, the infotainment touchscreen - 8.25-inch or 9.2-inch - now sits higher up and in a more ergonomically sensible position. Unlike the Leon, the Ibiza continues to offer physical controls for the climate system. At the outer edges of the dashboard there are also new circular air vents which can be illuminated (Xcellence and FR), forming part of the ambient lighting.

The multifunction steering wheel is new as well, and in Xcellence and FR trims it features a fresh Nappa finish that feels nicer to the touch. Materials have been updated too: the dashboard gains a new, softer-touch surface, and the seats are now available with new cloth upholstery.

More technology

The refreshed SEAT Ibiza also strengthens its technology offering. Full Link - compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - is now wireless, and the infotainment system adds voice control, for instance.

When it comes to driver assistance systems, the Ibiza can now be specified with Travel Assist (a system combining adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assistance), meaning it offers Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. It also includes Side Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition and High Beam Assist.

Six powertrain options to choose from

There are no surprises on the engine front. In total there are six choices, with five petrol options and one bi-fuel unit, the CNG (compressed natural gas) version - Diesel engines stopped being offered on the Ibiza and also the Arona last year. The available engines are as follows:

• 1.0 MPI - 80 hp and 93 Nm; 5-speed manual gearbox;
• 1.0 EcoTSI - 95 hp and 175 Nm; 5-speed manual gearbox;
• 1.0 EcoTSI - 110 hp and 200 Nm; 6-speed manual gearbox;
• 1.0 EcoTSI - 110 hp and 200 Nm; 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch);
• 1.5 EcoTSI - 150 hp and 250 Nm; 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch);
• 1.0 TGI - 90 hp and 160 Nm; 6-speed manual gearbox.

For now, the launch date and pricing for the updated SEAT Ibiza in Portugal have not yet been announced.