4 Seat Ibiza Cupra 2016

Seat has confirmed UK pricing and specification for the latest version of the Ibiza Cupra.

Among several changes for the new model are a new two-tier range, plus a series of technical enhancements including a new engine with even more power and torque,  plus the reintroduction of a manual gearbox.

Only available in the SC (Sports Coupé) bodystyle, the new-look UK Ibiza Cupra line-up will be available in two versions.

These are the standard Cupra for £18,100, £880 less than the previous model (with DSG transmission), rising to £18,900 for Cupra Black, which is expected to be the best-selling version.

Technical improvements

The technical changes include the switch to a six-speed manual gearbox - 80% of the UK hot supermini class is stick shift-based, Seat will be looking to make “significant inroads”.

There are larger front brakes, plus Cupra Drive Profile with adjustable damping and steering, offering two modes, comfort and sport.

Powering the halo model in the Ibiza line-up is a completely new engine.

Out goes the previous supercharged 1.4, replaced by a 1.8 TSI pushing out an additional 12 PS, and 70Nm additional torque, up to 320Nm, across a much broader rev range of 1,450 to 4,250 rpm.

Zero to 62 mph is achieved in 6.7 seconds, and top speed 146 mph. On a combined cycle fuel economy is 45.6mpg.

Equipment

The New Ibiza Cupra also has several new items of equipment, including a media system with five inch colour touchscreen and DAB digital radio, Bluetooth® audio streaming and hands-free system, plus multi-function steering wheel.

Hill hold control and tiredness recognition system have also been added.

The standard Cupra features 17-inch ‘Barcino’ alloy wheels, auto lights and wipers, XDS electronic differential lock, Cupra front sports seats, electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors, plus climate control and cruise control.

On the outside, the entry point model has bi-xenon headlamps with cornering lights and LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights, plus tinted glass on the side and rear windows.

The likely UK best-selling version, the Cupra Black, costs £800 more than the standard Cupra, but offers around £1,000 worth of additional equipment.

It has black alloy wheels with red brake calipers. It also benefits from a navigation system with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, 3D map display, voice recognition and two SD card slots.

The options lists includes Seat Sound with six speakers, a boot mounted subwoofer and an amplifier for £155, as well as a navigation system (includes Media System Plus with 6.5-inch color touchscreen with proximity sensor, MP3 compatible CD player and Bluetooth™ voice recognition) at £580 and ‘full link’ for £145.

On both versions are three additions: Alcantara upholstery for £400, a panoramic glass sunroof at £495, together with ambient interior lighting for only £60. All prices quoted include VAT.

The new Ibiza Cupra is on sale now.