by Clinton Deacon June 3, 2008 5:00 PM
Filed Under: European, Seat
Set for its worldwide debut at the London Motor Show in July, the first teaser images and details of the Seat Ibiza Sport-Coupe have been released The highlight is surely the introduction of a new seven-speed DSG gearbox for the 105 hp 1.6-liter version – the first time a vehicle in this segment has incorporated the new technology.
The exterior styling follows very much along the lines of the Bocangra concept although it still lacks the large front and rear air intakes which we will probably see in the high performance “Cupra” version. Three engines will be available starting with the entry level 1.4 liter petrol engine and a 90hp 1.9-liter TDI engine along with 105 hp 1.6-liter petrol engine with the seven-speed DSG gearbox.
Production has been slated for the Martorell factory near Barcelona but there is no word on the launch date or pricing yet. On top of the expected super performance Cupra model, there will also be the FR and ECOMOTIVE version released in the not too distant future.
New seven-speed DSG gearbox, a first in this segment
Addition of the 80 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines
Without a doubt, the arrival of the new SEAT Ibiza SportCoupe raises the bar of sportiness on its newest model, combining impressive, vanguard exterior design with exceptional dynamic qualities and a wide range of engine choices, which now includes the efficient 80 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 Diesel versions. Besides, with a seven-speed DSG gearbox making its debut in this segment, the Ibiza range features a novelty that provides it with greater response and excellent driving comfort.
The deep-rooted SEAT sports concept is maximised in the Ibiza SportCoupe thanks to its compact coupé body, with a length of 4.034 metres and mere 1.428 metre height to match its temperament, lending the car agility and comfort both in the city and on the motorway. Likewise, the new VW Group platform designed for this segment also favours the dynamic qualities of the new SEAT Ibiza SC.
Design, quality and precision quality are three of the elements that distinguish the brand’s new model highlighting the new “Arrow Design” concept characterised by a lower positioning of the headlights and radiator grille for a sportier look.
Painstaking interior and exterior detailing on the new Ibiza SC include the dashboard, the instrument panel, ventilation nozzles and central console, which houses the audio equipment and Bluetooth connection which can be accessed via controls located on the steering column.
DSG gearbox for the first time in this segment
The new SEAT Ibiza SportCoupe is equipped with the new seven-speed DSG gearbox on its 105 hp 1.6 version for the first time in this segment, placing the brand’s new car in an enviable position compared to its rivals. The new Ibiza’s inherent sportiness combines with the comfort and reliability of one of the most efficient automatic transmissions on the market.
With shorter first and second gears and a smaller gear ratio, this new, twin-clutch automatic transmission provides the Ibiza with greater acceleration. Besides, this system produces remarkable fuel consumption, since the seventh gear is ideal for long motoring trips.
Agile, seductive and extroverted, the new Ibiza SportCoupe will be manufactured exclusively at SEAT’s Martorell factory near Barcelona and will be available in three trim levels – Reference, Stylance and Sport, with an outstanding standard equipment list from the entry-level model. In the near future, the model’s ecological ECOMOTIVE, FR and Cupra versions will also make their appearance.
Most probably we won't see the 130 or 160 PS versions ever again. VW is investing in commonrail so I personally expect to see new 1.6L TDI engine family establishing roots at this class.
It seems the 1.6 unit won't die anytime soon! :) VW has too may engines. Why not use the 1.4 TSI with 7 speed DSG as the basis?
I'm tired of this Sport-Coupe, Comfort-Coupe things. Come on guys, that's just a 3 door Ibiza and Scirocco is a chopped down 3 door Golf hatchback basically and not a coupe. The silhouette doesn't match a real coupe nor is it justifiable to label them so.
You know, the VW Scirocco also gets on my nerves. It's a glorified Golf GTi, nothing more.
The designers can talk a shedload of rubbish about how muscular the rear arches are but in the end the only thing you have is less of a wow factor, albeit with an easily accessible boot... I'm sure grandma would like one...
