SEAT has revealed the updated version of its Ibiza Cupra, which will be shown to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this week.
Expected to go on sale this autumn, the Ibiza Cupra receives styling updates and a new, more powerful engine.
Replacing the 1.4-litre engine used previously is a 1.8-litre turbocharged unit. It’s the same engine that’s used in the latest Volkswagen Polo GTI.
Using a six-speed manual gearbox, instead of a DSG automatic ‘box, the Ibiza Cupra’s new engine produces 189bhp, which is 12bhp more than the unit it replaces. Torque also increases from 250Nm to 320Nm.
The extra power allows the updated Ibiza Cupra to cover the 0-62mph sprint in 6.7 seconds. That’s three tenths of a second quicker than before. The updated model can also reach a top speed of 146mph and continues to record 47mpg as its official fuel economy.
In regards to styling changes, the Cupra’s facelift is very subtle overall but it does introduce new LED daytime running lights and taillights. The Cupra still has distinct sporty styling features which make it stand out next to the rest of the Ibiza range, such as a darkened diffuser, 17-inch alloy wheels and a central exhaust.
The changes to the interior are more noticeable, as the Ibiza Cupra sports redesigns for the instrument panel, air vents and infotainment system. A new steering wheel is in place as well, borrowed from the SEAT Leon range. The infotainment device has been upgraded so it now supports connectivity with Apple and Android smartphones.
Pricing for the updated Ibiza Cupra has yet to be announced. However, because it will only be available with a manual gearbox, rather than the more expensive dual-clutch DSG, this could give the car a lower starting price than before. The price could potentially be set at just under £19,000.
