SEAT to launch the Ateca FR & its latest Concept car the 600 at the Barcelona Motor Show

• The new SEAT Ateca FR will make its international debut at Automobile Barcelona 2017
• Home city event will also be venue of choice for a new experiment in design by SEAT, the Concept Car SEAT 600
• Technology, connectivity, digitalisation and smart mobility will be the main themes of the show

Barcelona-based SEAT is preparing to showcase two new cars at its home city international motor show, which runs from 11th to 21st May 2017.

The automobile world, connectivity, digitalisation, technology and smart mobility will go hand in hand at Automobile Barcelona, combining two shows into one. Firstly, Connected Hub, an event dedicated to in-car technology will bring tech, mobility and new business models together. And secondly, the motor show, itself.

This is the ideal stage for SEAT to demonstrate its decision to reinforce its position as front-runner in connected car, in-car technology and in the development of new mobility solutions where the connected car enhances the driver experience, making it easier and more flexible. 

At Automobile Barcelona, SEAT will demonstrate how it is responding to the challenges of the immediate future in terms of connectivity solutions, digitalisation, smart technology, urban infrastructures and traffic systems.

The protagonist on the SEAT stand will be the Ateca FR, which will make its international debut at Automobile Barcelona 2017. The latest addition to the high-selling SUV range provides sportiness without ever compromising SEAT’s connectivity, luxury, comfort and style.

The Ateca FR is immediately identifiable on the outside through its aluminium roof rails and window frames, unique glossy black grille, FR bumpers and rear fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch option available) matching colours to the bodywork for the wheel rims and side skirts (with aluminium moulding that runs along both doors), the rear window framed by black lateral spoilers and matching bodywork colour for the spoiler on the boot and the FR logo at the front and rear. 

The logo is repeated inside on the aluminium kick plates and multi-function sports steering wheel in leather with glossy black insertions. 

The sports seats are upholstered in Alcantara®, the door panels have an exclusive FR covering, the pedals are aluminium and the red stitching on the steering wheel, the gearbox and seats emphasises the sporty side of the car which also comes with firmer suspension to add to the driver experience.

This will not be the latest part of SEAT’s SUV story. Later this year, the Arona will arrive, followed in 2018 by a large SUV with a choice of five- or seven-seats.

The Ateca FR, All-new Ibiza and Leon CUPRA 300 will be accompanied on the SEAT stand by the Concept Car SEAT 600 BMS, a SEAT design exercise; a project to commemorate the 60th anniversary of one of the brand’s most iconic models. A tribute to the past, the 600 BMS is based on the unforgettable SEAT 600D with its rectractable top. Much like the first generation of its forerunner, the 600 BMS Concept Car is equipped with front suicide doors and maintains the rectractable canvas top. 

With its attractive vintage styling, it features striking light grey “metallic twist” body paint with adhesive decals in orange and an evolved “600” logo that is much more graphic. The car retains its original wheels and brakes. On the inside, the 600 BMS has exclusive leather upholstery with orange stitching and side detailing also in leather.

Taking advantage of the partnership between SEAT and Ducati for the 2017 MotoGP World Championship, where the Leon CUPRA 300 will be the official car of the Ducati Team in Moto GP, the Ducati Corse Show bike will also appear on the SEAT stand.

The SEAT stand at Automobile Barcelona 2017 will include two zones that are divided by the city’s iconically famous “diagonal” boulevard. 

The Leon CUPRA and the Ducati Corse showbike, as well as the new Ateca FR, will be displayed in the first zone, which will also feature a 4D virtual experience. The second zone will highlight the fifth generation of the new SEAT Ibiza. The SEAT 600 Concept Car will be on display in the middle of the stand, together with the SEAT simulator.

Luca de Meo, President of SEAT, will be delivering a keynote speech at Automobile Barcelona 2017, discussing topics such as digitalisation of cars and the auto industry, connectivity and the company’s commitment to Barcelona and this motorshow event. In addition, the international press will receive insights into all of the brand’s new developments. He is scheduled to speak at 10:00 am on 11th of May.

2017 represents a special year for SEAT. After obtaining the best financial results in its history in 2016, with operating profits of 143 million euros and 232 million euros after tax, SEAT has started the year at a good pace, as one of the fastest-growing car brands in Europe, with a sales increase of 14% in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2016.

Škoda Auto announces sales, turnover and profits for the first quarter of 2017.

• ŠKODA achieves best first quarter in company’s history
• Sales revenue increases by 28.3% to 4.3 billion euros compared to same period last year
• Operating profit increases by 31.7% to 415 million euros
• ŠKODA delivers 283,500 vehicles (+ 2.5%) in first three months of 2017
• Bernhard Maier: “ŠKODA was doing well during the first three months of the year and is on a stable growth path. However, the 2017 automotive year remains challenging.”

ŠKODA is highlighting its path to growth with the best first quarter in the company’s 122-year history. Never before has the traditional Czech brand achieved such strong results in sales revenue, deliveries and operating profit between January and March. The manufacturer delivered 283,500 vehicles (+ 2.5%) worldwide. Sales revenue increased by 28.3% to 4.3 billion euros in the same period, while ŠKODA’s operating profit increased by 31.7% to 415 million euros.

“ŠKODA was doing well during the first three months of the year and is on a stable growth path. However, the 2017 automotive year remains challenging; the volatile developments in some markets and the harsh competitive environment require careful attention,” says ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier, adding: “With our Strategy 2025, we are preparing the company for the social and technological changes facing the automotive industry. 

The recently presented electric study VISION E provides an outlook on how ŠKODA is actively shaping the individual mobility of tomorrow.”

In terms of sales revenue, ŠKODA grew by 28.3% to 4.334 billion euros between January and March 2017 (first quarter 2016: 3.379 billion euros). Operating profit rose by 31.7% to 415 million euros (first quarter 2016: 315 million euros). Return on sales grew by 0.3% compared to the same period last year and currently stands at 9.6%.

“Despite a challenging market environment and high volatility in exchange rates, ŠKODA achieved desirable results in the first quarter. The higher profitability is mainly attributable to positive volume, mix and exchange-rate effects,” says ŠKODA CFO Klaus-Dieter Schürmann. “We continue to operate from a position of financial strength. In light of the sometimes unpredictable developments in some regions of the world, it is more important than ever to work very cost-effectively.”

In terms of model series, the brand's flagship, the ŠKODA SUPERB, the small car FABIA and the compact RAPID achieved above-average growth rates. From January to March the SUPERB increased by 18.9% to 38,300 deliveries compared to the same quarter last year. The FABIA also posted strong growth in the first quarter (54,600 vehicles, + 10.2%). The RAPID developed positively with sales of 51,800 vehicles (+ 6.8%) in the first quarter of 2017.

With Strategy 2025, ŠKODA is consistently driving the growth of the brand, while simultaneously preparing for the technological and social changes facing the international automotive industry. Key elements of the strategy include expanding the SUV model range, the electrification of ŠKODA’s model range, the brand’s further internationalisation, and developing new integrated digital mobility solutions.

ŠKODA AUTO Group – Key figures for quarterly comparison, January to March 2017/2016 *:

		January - March		2017/2016
		2017	2016	Changes in %
Deliveries to customers	Cars	283,500	276,600	+2.5
Deliveries to customers excl China	Cars	216,700	201,200	+7.7
Production**	Cars	234,300	197,800	+18.5
Sales***	Cars	252,400	207,100	+21.9
Sales revenue	Million EUR	4,334	3,379	+28.3
Operating profit	Million EUR	415	315	+31.7
Return on sales	%	9.6	9.3	-
Investments (w/o capitalised
development costs)	Million EUR	96	71	+35.2
Net cash flow	Million EUR	591	527	+12.1

* Percentage deviations are calculated from non-rounded figures.

** Comprises the production of the ŠKODA brand, without production in China, Slovakia, Russia or India, but does include other Group brands, such as SEAT, Audi and VW; Vehicle production without part/complete kits

*** Comprises sales of the ŠKODA brand and includes other Group brands, such as SEAT, Audi and VW; Vehicle sales without part/complete kits

The All New MG XS - Launched at the London Motor Show, i was there, it is really good !!!!

MG Motor UK officially unveiled its all-new compact SUV – the MG XS – at the London Motor Show earlier today (4th May). Featuring the latest in driver technology, in-car infotainment and next-generation vehicle design, the new model offers a glimpse of the future for MG’s iconic model range. 

Expected to arrive in dealerships in late 2017, the MG XS will be available in two engine derivatives and either automatic or manual transmission. The manufacturer’s first car to be marketed under a different name in the UK than China, the MG XS has been specifically-developed to suit market demand for a competitively-priced, family-friendly compact SUV. 

Blending style, performance and practicality, the new model joins the highly-acclaimed MG3 Supermini and MG GS SUV in the brand’s all-new line-up for 2017. Pricing will be highly competitive, making the MG XS perfect for young families and new drivers alike. 

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, commented: “The MG XS will be a real game-changer in the compact SUV marketplace. The meaning behind the name is simple – S stands for SUV, X means extra. Featuring state-of-the-art driver technology and innovative design, the new model builds on our growing reputation for capability, performance and quality, positioned at a highly-affordable price – the customer gets extra, for less! 

“Full specifications, trim details and pricing will be announced later this year. Until then, customers can pre-book test drives and pre-order model brochures via approved MG dealers nationwide.” 

The MG XS adds to the brand’s already popular line-up, meeting market demand for an affordable, compact SUV. For more information about the MG XS, visit www.mg.co.uk. To book a test drive or pre-order product brochures, contact your local MG dealership. 

Ssangyong launches the new look Korando at the London Motor Show, with added kit too.

• Distinctive grille and headlights give Korando the new SsangYong ‘look’
• Spacious family accommodation for five
• 2-tonne towing capacity
• 4x4 available for a great off-road performance
• Four models from just £17,000 on the road
• 5-year limitless mileage warranty

The Korando SUV has been greatly enhanced for 2017 with a stylish and contemporary new front end design and with upgraded equipment.

The car sports a distinctive new grille and headlight treatment, adopting the new SsangYong ‘look’ first seen on the Tivoli and Tivoli XLV, and on the new Rexton announced recently.  This also includes new fog lights, lower valance and bonnet.  It  features daytime running lights using 11 high-luminescent LED lamps with separate lenses to improve visibility, and on the inside a new ergonomically designed steering wheel. 

There are four models in the range: the two-wheel drive SE at £17,000; SE 4x4, £18,500; ELX 4x4, £22,000; and ELX with automatic transmission from £23,500.  The new car goes on sale with immediate effect.

With its 2-tonne towing capacity, the Korando has always been popular with those needing to tow a caravan, horsebox or boat trailer.  With plenty of interior space, considerable legroom for all passengers, an almost completely flat floor and generous boot space - up to 1,312 litres, there’s room for bulky leisure equipment or a couple of large dogs.

All models come with electrically operated and heated door mirrors with puddle lamps, RDS radio and iPod & Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, tinted glass and roof rails.  The ELX adds a raft of additional equipment including front & rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, 7” touchscreen, RDS radio and TomTom sat nav, distinctive new 18” diamond-cut wheels, leather seats, heated steering wheel and heated front & rear seats.

The new Korando is powered by a turbo-charged, Euro 6 compliant 2.2 litre diesel.  Maximum power is 178ps and torque to 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.  The engine can be matched with either a 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission for smooth, dynamic gear changing, comfortable driving and lively acceleration, and comes with either front wheel-drive, or an intelligent on-demand all-wheel drive system.

Renault announces pricing and Specification for the new Koleos Sports Utility Vehicle.

• New D-segment SUV expands Renault’s crossover line-up alongside Kadjar and Captur
• Interior comfort to the fore – rear passenger knee room amongst best-in-class
• Two trim levels provide high levels of standard specification across a six version line-up
• Two dCi engines with a choice of manual & X-Tronic automatic transmissions
• Two-wheel drive and All-Mode 4x4-i
• Available equipment includes full LED headlights, Hands Free Parking, heated and ventilated front seats, heated and cooling cupholders, Powered Automatic Tailgate, One-Touch easy folding rear seats, opening panoramic sunroof, BOSE 13-speaker hi-fi, 8.7-inch portrait screen with R-LINK2 infotainment system
• Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ smartphone replication as standard
• 5-star Euro NCAP rating and high levels of ADAS equipment
• CO2 emissions from 128g/km & economy of up to 57.6mpg (NEDC)
• Based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance ‘CMF’ C/D platform
• 4-year warranty and Renault Assistance package as standard
• Priced from £27,500 on-the-road
• Available to order now with deliveries commencing later this summer

Having made its European debut at the Paris Motor Show last autumn, the All-New Koleos is now available to order, expanding Renault’s crossover line-up alongside Kadjar and Captur. Offering Renault’s warm and sleek design language, All-New Koleos offers the rugged capability of an SUV with the elegant refinement of a large executive saloon. 

Assured handling, excellent interior comfort and quality as well as a host of advanced technology and convenience items ensure an exceptional experience for driver and passengers alike. All-New Koleos is priced from £27,500 and UK deliveries commence later this summer.

Boasting a powerful stance that sets it apart from its rivals, the All-New Koleos takes Renault design cues from other recently introduced C- and D-segment models such as the All-New Mégane and Talisman. Renault’s signature C-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) at the front and always-illuminated horizontal DRLs to the rear make the All-New Koleos instantly recognisable.

All-New Koleos provides a comfortable, spacious and clear cabin thanks to its opening panoramic sunroof and impressive rear passenger leg room which is amongst the very best-in-class thanks to its five-seat architecture.

Available with Renault’s ALL MODE 4x4-i four-wheel drive technology, and ground clearance of 210mm, the All-New Koleos complements its exceptional refinement with all-terrain ability.

The All-New Koleos is offered in a six version high-end line-up based on two trim levels that will be familiar to Renault owners – Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav. Both trim levels provide a truly comprehensive standard specification.

The dCi 130 engine is available on both trim levels with a six-speed manual transmission and two-wheel drive.

The dCi 175 engine is available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed Auto X-Tronic transmission – both with ALL-MODE 4x4-i four-wheel drive.

Exceptional interior space

Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance Common Module Family (CMF) C/D platform – that is in use on Kadjar, Mégane, Scénic, Talisman and Espace from the Renault line-up – the five-seat D-segment SUV provides a wealth of space for both front and rear passengers.

During the design process of All-New Koleos, exceptional interior space for five occupants was a main focus. With an overall length of 4672mm and wheelbase of 2705mm, passengers are provided with comfort and space throughout the cabin. Indeed, rear knee room is amongst the best in its class at 289mm with rear passengers also benefitting from dual air vents, dual USBs (with two more in the front), a central armrest with cupholders and extra tinted rear windows. 

The spacious interior has not been detrimental to boot space – 458-litres (VDA) with all seats in place and 1,690-litres (VDA) with rear seats down. Achieving maximum boot capacity couldn’t be easier thanks to the All-New Koleos’ One-Touch easy folding rear seats whereby they can be folded (individually or all at once) via a button in the boot. The Signature Nav comes with a Powered Automatic Tailgate that can open or close the rear boot by a press on the keycard or, conveniently if carrying luggage, by waving a foot under the rear bumper.

All-New Koleos has a kerb weight of 1,650kg and a towing capability of 2,000kg (braked) and 750kg (unbraked).

Exceptional comfort and convenience as standard

Renault’s advanced driver assistance systems, such as Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Over-speed Prevention with Traffic Sign Recognition and Hill Start Assist have been applied across the line-up. A rear parking camera with front and rear parking sensors is also included on all versions as well as an electrochrome rear mirror.

Standard safety features include ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with traction and understeer control, cruise control, speed limiter, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, seat belts with load limiters and pretensioners at the front, side impact protection bars and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points on the two outer rear seats.

Providing an airy feel to the cabin, Dynamique S features an opening panoramic sunroof. Part-black leather upholstery with extra tinted rear windows, ambient lighting, cup holders able to heat and cool drinks for front passengers and a central armrest with in-built cup holders in the rear, maintain a comfortable yet practical feel to the All-New Koleos. Automatic Dual-zone climate control, a Hands Free Keycard and automatic lights and wipers are also standard.

Ensuring all passengers can keep fully charged throughout their journey, four USB and two AUX ports are provided. The Arkamys 3D Sound 4x35W DAB radio with seven-inch touchscreen R-LINK2 multimedia system includes satellite navigation with TomTom® LIVE traffic updates, Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ smartphone replications, Western European mapping, Bluetooth audio streaming and Handsfree connectivity.

Outside, the All-New Koleos Dynamique S sports 18-inch ‘Agapi’ two-tone alloy wheels and electrically- adjustable heated and folding door mirrors. Longitudinal roof bars provide a hint at the rugged off-road capabilities of the SUV.

Signature Nav adds to this specification with 19-inch ‘Galiki’ two-tone alloy wheels and full LED ‘Pure Vision’ headlights to the exterior. 

Occupants are cocooned inside with full black leather upholstery with heated front seats and the R-LINK2 multimedia system is increased to an 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen as seen on All-New Mégane and All-New Scénic. A Powered Automatic Tailgate ensures loading the boot is as convenient as possible. 

Optional Equipment

The optional Climate Pack offers ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and a heated front windscreen, and is available on Signature Nav.

A 13-speaker BOSE sound system and Hands Free Parking are available on Signature Nav as well as the possibility of specifying either Sierra Brown or Silver Grey in lieu of the standard Carbon Black leather upholstery. Metallic paint is available as an option on both trim levels.

Powertrains and Technical

The All-New Koleos is manufactured at the Busan plant in South Korea alongside Renault-Samsung Motors models.

There is a choice of two diesel engines – the dCi 130, a 1.6-litre/130hp engine with six-speed manual transmission available in two-wheel drive. This engine provides fuel economy of up to 57.6mpg (NEDC Combined Cycle) and CO2 emissions of 128g/km.

The dCi 175, a 2-litre/175hp engine, is available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed Auto X-Tronic transmission, in four-wheel drive. It is the most powerful diesel engine in the Renault range with 380Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. The manual transmission provides fuel economy of up to 50.4 mpg (NEDC Combined Cycle), compared with 47.9mpg for the Auto X-Tronic. The manual’s CO2 emissions are 148g/km and the Auto X-Tronic has CO2 emissions of 156g/km.

The new X-Tronic automatic continuously variable transmission offers fluid, responsive driving without any interruption of torque. X-Tronic adjusts continuously whilst maintaining optimal engine speed and can also simulate gear shifts, producing even more powerful acceleration.

The four-wheel-drive versions of the All-New Renault Koleos come equipped with the new ALL MODE 4x4-i technology. This enables you to select your driving mode – AUTO, LOCK or 2WD – and keep complete control of the powertrain on any terrain.

All versions provide the peace of mind of Renault’s 4+ warranty and assistance package. The car is protected by Renault for four years or 100,000 miles (first two years have no mileage limit). There is also a three-year paint warranty and 12 years’ cover against corrosion.

Servicing is required once a year or every 18,000 miles.

All-New Koleos Technical Information

Version	Drive	Power(hp @ rpm)	Torque(Nm @ rpm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top speed (mph)
Dynamique S Nav dCi 130	2WD	130@1750	320@4000	11.4	115
Dynamique S Nav dCi 175	4WD	177@2000	380@3750	10.7	126
Dynamique S Nav dCi 175 Auto X-Tronic	4WD	177@2000	380@3750	9.5	125
Signature Nav dCi 130	2WD	130@1750	320@4000	11.4	115
Signature Nav dCi 175	4WD	177@2000	380@3750	10.7	126
Signature Nav dCi 175 Auto X-Tronic	4WD	177@2000	380@3750	9.5	125

All-New Koleos Dimensions

Exterior dimensions	Dimensions (mm)		Exterior dimensions	Dimensions (mm)
Overall length	4672		Elbow width - Rear	1456
Wheelbase	2705		Shoulder width - Front	1449
Front overhang	930		Shoulder width - Rear	1419
Rear overhang	1038		Rear knee room	289
Width between front wheels - 17” wheels	1591		Elbow width - Front	1483
Width between rear wheels - 17” wheels	1586
Width with mirrors folded in	1843
Overall width with mirrors out	2063
Overall height	1678
Height with open boot	2118.1
Boot sill height	770
Ground clearance	210

All-New Koleos Ownership Information & Pricing

Version	MPG (NEDC)	CO2(g/km)	BIK (band %)	VED (Year 1)	Ins. group	Price
Dynamique S Nav dCi 130	57.6	128	27	£160	TBC	£27,500
Dynamique S Nav dCi 175	50.4	148	31	£200	TBC	£30,400
Dynamique S Nav dCi 175 Auto X-Tronic	47.9	156	33	£500	TBC	£31,900
Signature Nav dCi 130	57.6	128	27	£160	TBC	£29,800
Signature Nav dCi 175	50.4	148	31	£200	TBC	£32,700
Signature Nav dCi 175 Auto X-Tronic	47.9	156	33	£500	TBC	£34,200

All-New Koleos Option Pricing

Option	Price
Climate Pack - Heated front & rear seats, heated windscreen, heated steering wheel & ventilated front seats	£400
Hands Free Parking	£350
BOSE Sound System (13-speaker)	£600
Brown or Grey Leather	£400
Metallic Paint	£545
Spare Wheel	£120

SEAT announces pricing & specification for the ALl-New 5th Generation Ibiza Supermini.

• UK order books now open for All-new SEAT Ibiza ahead of showroom arrival on 21 July, priced from only £13,130
• Fifth generation of SEAT’s best-selling supermini makes significant advances in all areas – style, quality, performance, handling, refinement and technology
• All-new Ibiza debuts new Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform
• New model set to add impetus to SEAT’s record-breaking sales performance, alongside the hugely successful New Leon and Ateca ranges
• Launched exclusively as a five-door model with a choice of five trim levels and four petrol engines, led by new high-efficiency 1.0 three-cylinder units

The countdown has started for the most important event of the year so far for SEAT, with first orders being taken this week for the All-new SEAT Ibiza. The arrival of the hotly anticipated new model this summer promises to add even more impetus to the remarkable sales success the stylish Spanish brand is enjoying nationwide.

“Ibiza is an iconic model for SEAT, a best-seller that’s been at the heart of our line-up for more than 30 years,” said Richard Harrison, Director, SEAT UK. “With that kind of heritage, you can be sure the new model will be a benchmark car, taking SEAT quality, design, engineering and technology to an even higher level.

“The New Leon range and the Ateca, our first SUV, have set the scene perfectly, generating huge customer response and helping raise UK sales to record heights already this year. The All-new Ibiza will complete a powerful trio at the heart of our brand and we cannot wait to introduce it to British buyers.”

Early reports from British media experts who were first to get behind the wheel signal just how good a car the latest Ibiza promises to be. Auto Express magazine declared it “sets the class standard” for superminis, while What Car? reports that it’s “great to look at and to drive – one of the best small cars you can buy”.

In terms of street appeal, the All-new Ibiza – now exclusively a five-door – is every inch a modern SEAT, designed and developed in Barcelona. Sporty, edgy lines combine with sculpted bodywork to give the car striking, eye-catching appeal, with a clear bloodline link to the cool styling cues established with the new Leon and Ateca, and further distinguishing SEAT as a leader in contemporary car design. Hot new exterior colours and a class-leading eight-inch infotainment screen have been added too, to keep Ibiza firmly on-trend with current tastes.

It’s what lies beneath the skin, however, that defines the All-new Ibiza’s quality as a car that is dynamically rewarding to drive and also remarkably spacious within its compact body. It has the distinction of being the first model to be built on a new modular Volkswagen Group vehicle platform, MQB A0.

The new underpinnings are the key to making the latest Ibiza a lithe performer around urban streets and an engaging proposition when out on the open road. 

They also allow for an exceptionally spacious cabin in a car that’s actually shorter than the one it replaces: with width increased by 87mm, 60mm added to the wheelbase and 35mm more rear legroom, comfortable accommodation is guaranteed. And there’s more room in the boot, too, with an extra 63 litres available.

The All-new Ibiza arrives at launch with a choice of four petrol engines, majoring on a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit, engineered to deliver a compelling mix of economy and spirited performance. In standard form it will produce a useful 75PS, while turbo versions will offer 95 and 115PS – the latter reserved for the sporty FR model with a six-speed manual or sophisticated dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

Official benchmark figures indicate combined cycle fuel consumption from 60.1 mpg and 106 g/km of CO2 (1.0 TSI 95PS). To add an extra performance dimension to the range, the FR will also be available with a potent 150PS 1.5 EVO engine, while diesels will be added to the line-up later in the year.

The breadth of choice takes in five trim levels and top quality equipment specifications that keep the All-new Ibiza firmly in the frame when it comes to today’s customer preferences on technology, “always-on” connectivity, in-car entertainment, comfort and safety. At entry point, the S version keeps things simple and smart, with features including air conditioning, electric front windows, automatic headlights, Bluetooth and advanced safety features including Front Assist. 

Moving up to SE grade delivers a wealth of extra features: 15-inch alloys, front fog lights with cornering function, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control and multi-coloured ambient cabin lighting are all included, together with SEAT’s Media System Colour multimedia package.

The new SE Technology is the expected top pick for UK buyers, coming equipped with Media System Plus with eight-inch colour touchscreen, navigation with 3D map display, voice recognition, DAB digital radio and two USB ports. 

The FR focuses on sportier looks with 17-inch alloys, dark-tinted rear glass, brilliant black and chrome bodywork details and twin exhausts; likewise, the cabin is fitted with sports front seats and flat-bottom steering wheel and Full Link smartphone integration. 

in sports suspension, rear disc brakes and SEAT Drive Profile with four selectable drive modes and you have a car that adds authentic performance to its arresting looks. 

XCELLENCE, new to Ibiza, tops out the range, with distinguishing features such as 16-inch machined alloy wheels, Atom Grey door mirror housings, Alcantara upholstery, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry-and-go, front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

A wealth of options extend the possibilities even further, including a Beats audio system – reflecting Ibiza’s status as having the youngest customer age profile of any UK supermini.

The new Ibiza range starts from £13,130 on the road. Orders can be placed now with the first cars in UK showrooms on 21 July.