UK: Classy common rail diesel joins SEAT Ibiza line-up

The summer debut of a smooth new 104 hp 1.6-litre four cylinder TDI, which brings with it cutting edge common rail fuelling, radically enhances both the Ibiza 5dr and Ibiza SC's market coverage and instantly places the svelte five-seater on the test drive list of many more private and business buyers.

The new diesel-engined SEAT's stats speak for themselves: CO2 emissions of just 109 g/km, combined fuel economy of 3.5 liters/100 km and a provisional 0-100 km/h time of just 10.5 seconds propel the Spaniard into the supermini premier league.

Generating a distinctly healthy 250 Nm torque peak at just 1,500 rpm, channelled to the driven front wheels via a crisp five-speed manual gearbox, the diesel-powered Ibiza is capable of a 188 km/h top speed.

Available in Sport specification across both the elegant 5dr and dynamic SC bodystyles, the new diesel joins an already generous selection of four cylinder petrol engines in 1.2-, 1.4- and 1.6-litre guises.

It also sits alongside the all-new Ibiza Ecomotive, which is powered by a super-frugal 1.4-litre three cylinder TDI which, like the 1.6-litre TDI CR, boasts a diesel particulate filter (DPF) as standard.

Like its fuel-sipping Ecomotive sibling, the new diesel engine allows the Ibiza to easily meet forthcoming tough new EU5 emissions targets.

Welcoming the arrival of the mainstream diesel derivative Head of SEAT UK, Peter Wyhinny, said: "Although only on sale here for less than a year, the Ibiza has already made a massive impact on the UK's supermini scene."

"Now, with the imminent arrival of a state-of-the-art diesel offering, I'm sure we'll see the Ibiza 5dr and Ibiza SC strengthen that position still further."

"At a time when for many motorists every penny counts, the debut of such a frugal yet engaging new SEAT will surely be very welcome."

Credits: JRC