Seat has added excitement to the worldwide anticipation of the next-generation Ibiza, due for release later this year, with the announcement an additional three-door variant to join the entry-level hatch – the Ibiza SportCoupe.
The Ibiza SportCoupe features many of the same styling cues first employed on the Bocanegra concept at the Geneva show earlier this year and “Arrow Design” theme that allows for a sportier stance featuring lower radiator grille and headlamps. Although the new three-door Ibiza is longer than the current hatch derivative, with a length of 4 034 mm over the current 3 955 mm – it is also shorter at 1 428 mm tall compared to 1 440 mm.
The range of petrol engines for the new Ibiza SportCoupe mirrors the powerplants available five-door Ibiza and includes a 1,2-litre three-cylinder that produces 51 kW, 1,4-litre four-cylinder with 61 kW and a 1,6-litre four-pot with 75 kW on tap. Oil-burner Ibiza SportCoupe derivatives are reportedly powered by 1,4-litre and 1,9-litre TDI units.
Seat has dipped into VW Group’s extensive parts bin and sourced a seven-speed DSG transmission for the 1,6-litre Ibiza SportCoupe as well. The first of its kind in this segment, the dual-clutch transmission also features shortened first and seconds gear ratios for improved acceleration as well as allow remarkable fuel consumption due to the seventh’ cogs suitability for long trips.”
Interior detailing is believed to be a mix of painstaking effort and quality with notable aspects such as the new facia, instrument panel, ventilation outlets and centre console, which houses audio and Bluetooth connectivity controls – also accessible via the steering column.
Production will take place at the Martorell facility near Barcelona but Seat hasn’t confirmed launch dates or prices. The much-anticipated Cupra variant is rumoured to feature the black mask of the Bocanegra’s front styling and make use of VW’s twin-charged 1,4-litre TSI powerplant as well, while FR and Ecomotive versions will be released at a later date.
Unfortunately, VWSA currently has no plans to introduce this model to the local market.