I purchased one of these in May 2004 (2003, 03 plate), the 1.9 TDI PD 130 version. This car uses the same 130bhp 1.9 litre diesel engine used extensively throughout the VW Group (VW, SEAT, Skoda and Audi) range.
The first thing you notice about this car is the power and especially the torque generated by this engine. Due to turbo lag, it is a little sluggish at extremely low rpm, but once over 1500rpm, the torque and the turbo begin to kick in. Use the 6-speed gearbox to keep the car around the 2000rpm mark to feel the full benefit of this power.
The handling of this car is also fantastic, although the stiffened suspension can lead to the ride being a little harsh over bumpier roads.
Fuel economy from this car is also fantastic, I averaged around 50mpg, much more on longer motorway journeys (in 6th gear this car will to 70mph at 1900rpm). Coupled with the low insurance grouping (Group 7, although the newly badged FR may be higher due to the "sportier" looks), I don't think there is a car out there that is quicker and cheaper to run (except the Skoda Fabia vRS, which is basically the same, if slightly uglier, car).
The car comes well-equiped, mine having 6-speed gearbox, climate control, CD-player, fully adjustable seats, electric windows and mirrors, traction control.
The only downside to the car is the ride. Due to the stiffened sports suspension, bumps in the road were taken a little harshly. However, this makes for fantastic handling, so it just depends what you are looking for. Also, the engine itself is a little noisy, but then it is a diesel. I feel other cars in the VW range (i.e the VW Polo GT TDI) would be a little better sound proofed (but they cost more to buy).
All in all, this is a great little car (I say little, there is masses of space for a supermini, with plenty of storage space around the cabin). The Ibiza has won What Car Car of the Year when it first came out, and Supermini of the year every year it has been out (4 years), and with good reason.
Also, as its a VW diesel engine, reliability should be top notch (I haven't had a single issue with the engine and its done 47k miles)
If you are looking for a car thats quick, fun to drive, with good handling and low running costs, then this is definitely worth a look at.
UPDATE: Jan 06: I have recently had a few issues with this car, a recurring fault with the airbag system, an intercooler pipe came loose and the front susension failed. It may have just been bad luck that I had all these issues with the car in a short space of time, but they were all fixed under warrenty, and the SEAT dealer was extremely helpful, with couertesy cars being made available for me.
However, due to only having 3 months left on the warrenty and much as it pains me as I think this is an excellent car, I have sold it.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Not a bad first review. I think you could have done with including a little more information if you wanted the higher ratings here, but a lot better than most other first reviews.
Nar 18.12.2005 17:27
Welcome to Ciao. A good starting review. I like Ibizas but I agree with you, they are no as refined as VWs. Even Polos have shoddy build quality though despite the badge. I like the Ibiza estate too.
Insurance Group 5, HPI Checked, Rear wash/wipe, ABS+EBA, Electro-hydraulic PAS, Rev ... more
counter, Body colour door mirrors, 6 speakers, Body colour rear spoiler, Front fog lights, Pollen filter, Height/depth adjustable steering wheel, Front interior light
Insurance Group 5, 0 Registered Keepers, HPI Checked, Rear wiper, ABS, Sports suspension, ... more
Electro-hydraulic PAS, Trip computer, Bifocal drivers side door mirror, 6 speakers, Sports exhaust tailpipe, Front fog lights, Manual air conditioning, Height/r
Dec 18th, 2005
(Jan 11th, 2006)
helpful by (100%):
