Updated SEAT Ibiza Cupra ready for action ~ station of gear

Upgraded SEAT Ibiza Cupra's new 1.8 turbo develops 189bhp & a six-speed manual is standard

2015-09-01 07:00

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is nearing its 20th birthday, and to bring the model in line with the rest of the updated Ibiza range, the firm has revealed a newly refreshed 189bhp version. Lightly revised on the outside, but with bigger changes beneath the surface, SEAT’s Ford Fiesta ST rival will be presented at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, before going on sale in January.

With the exception of the addition of LED headlamps, the hot hatch is the mirror image of the model it replaces. As before, however, there are distinctive Cupra touches, such as the darkened rear diffuser and central exhaust, more aggressive bumpers and unique 17-inch alloys.

More significant changes have been made under the bonnet. To replace the 177bhp 1.4-litre TSI turbo, SEAT has borrowed the larger and more powerful 1.8-litre turbo from the VW Polo GTI, which now develops 189bhp. Torque has also jumped from 250Nm to 320Nm, and is fed to the front wheels via a six-speed manual box.

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Unlike the outgoing Ibiza Cupra, which was only offered with a seven-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox, the new model is only available with the manual transmission. Those changes mean the Cupra is now 0.2 seconds quicker from 0-62mph (6.7 seconds) and can hit 146mph flat out. Despite the bigger engine, it’s still capable of returning the same 47mpg as before.

And because the manual transmission is cheaper to produce than the DSG, it could also mean the price of the updated Cupra is reduced from its current £19,120. Further mechanical changes include the addition of SEAT’s Cupra Driver Profile, which allows the driver to alter the likes of the steering weight and suspension via the Cupra, Sport and Comfort driving modes.

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Inside, SEAT has made a significant effort to update the interior over the dated cabin of the current model. There’s a new steering wheel borrowed from the Leon range, while a refreshed instrument panel, air vents and infotainment system also feature.

The touchscreen is also compatible with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink smartphone integration.

Now read our review of the bigger SEAT Leon Cupra.

Jonathan Burn

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