We review the Seat Ibiza SC from price to economy and all its features
THE Seat Ibiza SC is one of the coolest small cars on the road.
Mind you, it should be because it was created by former Lamborghini chief designer Luc Donckerwolke who told me designing a supermini is harder than a supercar.
Cool ... Seat Ibiza SC
And as the SC stands for Sport Coupe, you might think that this sporty looking motor is also very sporty to drive.
But, in truth, the three-door SC is very much lots of show with not too much go.
Which is hardly surprising as it has the option of either 1.2, 1.4litre or 1.6 petrol engines.
Look upon the Ibiza SC as a good-looking girl lying on a beach in a skimpy bikini – it’s a bit of a tease that’s pleasing on the eye.
There’s nothing wrong with the performance of the SC by ordinary supermini standards. It is economical and quick enough around town.
And you get fuel economy between 42.8 and 47.9mpg that will cut down trips to the petrol station. Which is why it will suit lots of buyers looking for a fashionable small car.
I suppose it’s just that the curvy bodywork seems to promise a lot more. But there is good news in the even more striking shape of the Ibiza Cupra, pictured, which will be the car for the go-faster boys when it arrives next Easter.
This little pocket rocket will be the real deal with the same 1.4litre FSI turbo-charged petrol engine fitted to the new VW Scirocco, that delivers 180 PS – that’s 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds, plus you get a seven-speed gearbox for razor sharp changes.
It will set you back £15,000, which is another reason why lots of people will really be quite happy with the standard SC that starts at £8,595.
Now that’s what you call affordable style.
What to look out for when buying a used Seat Ibiza
While the electrics are generally dependable, the powered windows can take on a mind of their own, either refusing to budge or going up and down of their own accord. Annoying creaks and rattles can also crop up, while lots of wind noise from the front window seals can be an issue – especially on three-door models.
You may feel some weird clunks from the power steering, but these don’t mean anything is about to give up; it just seems to be a characteristic of some Ibizas. Also are stroppy stereos which refuse to talk to whatever MP3 player is plugged in.
A single recall shouldn’t give much cause for concern. It came in June 2012 and affected Ibizas built between April 2010 and November 2011. A faulty catch meant their bonnets could fly open, so be sure to check that that has been seen to.