New SEAT Ibiza Cupra set to storm the hot hatch party

A 1.8-litre turbocharged TSI engine has been slotted under the bonnet of the Spanish hatchback in a bid to compete with the likes of the Ford Fiesta ST, Peugeot 208 GTI and Renaultsport Clio 200.

With headline figures of 189bhp and 236lb.ft. of torque — rises of 12bhp and 52lb.ft. over the old 1.4 TSI — it should now be able to compete.

Seat claims that the new Cupra, which comes equipped with the Volkswagen Groups XDS electronic differential, will reach 62mph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 146mph.

Setting out his stall for the new model, Dr Matthias Rabe, Vice-President for Research and Development at SEAT S.A., said: “Responsive, powerful acceleration, extremely precise handling, good traction and fade-free brakes guarantee the kind of driving fun that the CUPRA name stands for.”  

He added: “The new Ibiza CUPRA is a perfect example of how we at SEAT bring together the very latest technologies from the Volkswagen Group to create a unique and highly distinctive overall package.”