14 Dec 07 11:48
Seat Ibiza Ecomotive
Seat is adding a super-economical diesel model to its Ibiza supermini range, with deliveries to start in March.
The Ibiza Ecomotive is the Spanish equivalent of the VW Polo BlueMotion and Skoda Fabia Greenline, with the lowest emissions yet. Its Carbon dioxide output of 99g/km qualifies it for the tax-free band A and exemption from the London congestion charge in its proposed new form. It also returns 74.3mpg.
The Ecomotive has the VW Group 1.4-litre diesel engine, with recalibrated engine management, lower rolling-resistance tyres and improved aerodynamics to keep fuel consumption down. Its emissions are improved even further by a particulate filter. Prices start from £10,495.
This model becomes available, however, just before this generation of Ibiza becomes obsolete: the all-new range will be launched at the Madrid Motor Show next summer, with sales starting shortly after. The first production Seat to be styled by ex-Lamborghini designer Luc Donckerwolke, it will bear a strong resemblance to the Tribu SUV concept seen earlier this year. It is the first of the new family of VW Group superminis to be built on an all-new platform, coming on sale before the closely-related new Volkswagen Polo, which will follow in 2009.
The new Ibiza range may expand beyond the three- and five-door hatches currently offered. A compact estate - like the former Cordoba Vario - is under consideration and there will be a saloon to replace the Cordoba, though this may not come to the UK. And, of course, there'll be hotted-up FR and Cupra hatchbacks.
