SEAT Ibiza (2008-2017) - Car Reliability Index | Reliability Index

SEAT Ibiza (2008-2017) Buying Guide

Pictures shown may not represent exact model specified

by Richard Dredge

The fourth-generation Seat Ibiza was in production for almost a decade, but it hardly dated thanks to regular revisions. Modern, eye-catching, good to drive and cheap to run, the Ibiza stood out in a segment full of bland contenders. New drivers were reassured by its five-star Euro NCAP rating but while the Ibiza makes a great first car, this sharply styled supermini is also just the job for anybody wanting something fun and distinctive for the daily commute, whether it's on the motorway, around town or anywhere in between. There's a wide choice of models, from ultra-practical estates to brilliantly fun sports editions such as the FR and Cupra, with the seriously frugal Ecomotive along the way. It's not the most spacious car in the segment and it?s not the most accomplished dynamically. But while the Ibiza is no class leader, it is a great all-rounder.

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We Like	We Don't Like
Wide model range Distinctive styling Spacious cabin Plentiful Good to drive Strong TSI and TDI engines Good value	Some lacklustre petrol engines Spartan entry-level models

Key Dates
7/08	The five-door Ibiza Mk4 arrives in 1.2, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol forms.
11/08	The three-door Ibiza SC goes on sale.
3/09	The range is bolstered by 1.4 and 1.6-litre diesel engines.
7/09	The 178bhp 1.4 TSI Ibiza Cupra reaches showrooms along with the 99g/km 1.2TDi Ecomotive.
9/09	The Bocanegra is mechanically identical the the Cupra; it features a distinctive black nose.
9/10	The ultra-practical Ibiza ST (estate) appears alongside the 92g/km Ibiza E Ecomotive and the zesty 1.2 TSI.
1/12	A facelifted Ibiza comes with revised styling, higher-quality interior and a 1.2 TSI Ecomotive petrol option.
8/15	Another refresh brings new engines, overhauled suspension, high-tech options plus a higher-quality interior.

Checklist
Steering racks wear, so listen for clunking noises when manoeuvring at low speeds on full lock. The electric window motors short out leading to the mechanism going up or down of its own accord. or refusing to move. Some engines drink oil, especially the 1.4 TSI which can get through a litre every 600 miles. Modified Ibizas are popular with young drivers, so check for non-standard suspension, remaps and bodged electrics. Creaks, squeaks and rattles are common and so are jammed cup holders. These can be replaced easily on a DIY basis though. Air conditioning systems can be temperamental, so listen for hissing and see if the system produces cold air. The rear washer pipe can come adrift, filling the boot with water.

Checklist

Steering racks wear, so listen for clunking noises when manoeuvring at low speeds on full lock.
The electric window motors short out leading to the mechanism going up or down of its own accord. or refusing to move.
Some engines drink oil, especially the 1.4 TSI which can get through a litre every 600 miles.
Modified Ibizas are popular with young drivers, so check for non-standard suspension, remaps and bodged electrics.
Creaks, squeaks and rattles are common and so are jammed cup holders. These can be replaced easily on a DIY basis though.
Air conditioning systems can be temperamental, so listen for hissing and see if the system produces cold air.
The rear washer pipe can come adrift, filling the boot with water.