Seat ibiza

Following up on the SEAT Ibiza’s recent image makeover, reinforcing the sportiness and innovative design that all SEAT models are known for, as well as the entry-level engines in the range, the 1.4 16v engine now developing 85 bhp, are now taking the place of the previous 75 bhp unit.

Power has been increased by incorporating a new intake manifold, a new throttle valve body with a wider diameter as well as a series of enhancements to the exhaust camshaft. In addition, a new-generation engine management unit is featured.

The European-spec models have a new optional extra that has become available for the Ibiza range and is designed to cater for the growing number of customers who wish to listen to music on their MP3 players while they are out on the road: a port for an iPod or any other MP3 player with a USB connection that is housed inside the glove compartment. Whether this will come to Middle East models is not clear.

The Ibiza 2007 range has reinforced its sporty image compared with preceding versions. This stems from the restyling of the front bumpers which now have a more pronounced wrap-around design, with a honeycomb bottom grille and new front fog lights.

All of the new Ibiza models now come with twin headlights. The rear light clusters sport a new dark-red background to give them a smarter appearance. Other highlights at the rear include new bumpers which now show the tailpipes in all their glory. The area around the licence plate has also been revised as has the design of the rear wiper for a more pleasing aesthetic effect.

Differences can also be spotted inside the car, most notably in the quality of the materials used and their appearance. The transformation in quality inside the new Ibiza enhances both the look and feel of the interior. Eye-catching shades of black, grey and silver are used to trim the dash support, the instrument cluster, the centre console and the interior door panels. The high-quality feel extends to the fabrics used for upholstering the seats and for the textile trim panels adorning the passenger compartment.

Available in a number of trim levels, the Ibiza offers an array of safety features like ABS, TCS and ESP.

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