SEAT Ibiza Sport Coupe (08 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 12 April 2012
Shorter and lower than the five-door Ibiza, the Sport Coupe is the name SEAT has given to the three-door version of its small hatchback. It looks similar from the front with the same sharp nose and distinctive headlights, but the big differences are at the back where the redesigned side window and rear pillars give it a more coupe-like appearance. It's good to drive, just like the five-door model, plus there are different suspension settings available including a sports set-up. Inside it's modern and unfussy with a good driving position but while the boot is a decent size the rear seats are cramped and legroom is limited. That's one of few gripes though and overall the Ibiza SC is a stylish and well-equipped small hatchback. In October 2010 a 1.2-litre TSI engine was added to the line-up. Despite the small size the engine is impressive and an excellent combination of economy and performance.
4.5 out of 5

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Buying new

The Sport Coupe is a less practical but more stylish alternative to the five-door Ibiza and prices are £400 lower for the three-door model. The entry-level S model only comes with a 1.2-litre engine and does without air conditioning but it's still good value considering the rest of the standard equipment. It might be possible to negotiate a small discount on higher spec models or try and get money off one of the option packs.

Buy a new SEAT Ibiza Sport Coupe and save 20% on selected models

4 out of 5

Buying used

The Sport Coupe makes a good value used buy but if practicality is a concern and you regularly use the rear seats, the five-door model may suit your needs better. Avoid the entry-level 1.2 S unless it has the optional air-con fitted. The 1.4 SE should be the most popular seller and comes well equipped for the money - this is the best model to go for. The Ecomotive is very frugal and free to tax, but doesn't come very generously equipped.

  • Boot/Load Space SEAT Ibiza Sport Coupe (08 on)
  • Interior SEAT Ibiza Sport Coupe (08 on)

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See 233 used SEAT Ibiza Sport Coupes for sale, starting at £5,988

4 out of 5

Selling

Thanks to SEAT's sporty and ever-improving image the Ibiza should be straightforward to sell. It's sharp styling is the key selling point, as are the generous levels of kit but you may struggle if your car doesn't have air con. If it has one of the options packs fitted it's essential to highlight this to a potential buyer.