SEAT Ibiza IV Spied In Spain

Our spy photographer extraordinaire caught a glimpse of the next generation SEAT Ibiza on the road in southern Spain.  The current Ibiza, released to the public in 2001, received a minor facelift just a year ago.

Former Lamborghini designer Luc Donckerwolke designed the new SEAT Ibiza, which has resulted in the car being smaller and "less bold", according to our photographer.  The three-door model, highly covered up and in cognito, can be seen in the photo gallery.  A five-door model will be available, as well as Formula Racing (FR) and Cupra editions.  Look for the Ibiza to take some styling cues from the Tribu SUV concept, seen at the Frankfurt show last month.

This new SEAT Ibiza should hit the market by summer 2008.  The car will be competing for the affection of drivers interested in owning superminis like the Peugeot 206, Fiat Punto, Vauxhall Corsa, and the Toyota Yaris.  SEAT will likely have a more friendly rivalry between the Ibiza, Skoda Fabia, and the Volkswagen Polo, as the three brands share the same parent company.  Supermini segment newcomer MG-3, also set for release in 2008, may also shake things up.