SEAT Ibiza SC Road Test

SEAT Ibiza

In Car Entertainment and Satellite Navigation

We found the SEAT Ibiza SC's audio system a little confusing and difficult to use, but I am sure that you would get used to its operation. The sound system includes two bass speakers on the front doors, two tweeters next to the windscreen and two full range speakers on the rear panels which sounds fine in this class of a car. The audio controls can be remotely operated from a stalk on the steering wheel.

There is an aux-in so that you can plug in your iPod or mp3 player and there is even a handy 12v socket to power it.

The ICE system can feature an optional Bluetooth telephone system which, depending on the make and model of mobile telephone, provides functions including Signal strength/Call option; Voice dialling, Accept/Reject calls and Microphone On/Off (mute).

A clever innovation on the SEAT Ibiza SC is the optional facility to connect a portable Satellite Navigation system direct to the dashboard. Using a pre-installed dock located in the centre of the dashboard above the ventilation nozzles, this feature eliminates the need for cables and suction cups to keep an aftermarket Sat Nav in place on the windscreen. Currently there is only an adaptor available for the TomTom One V3.

Rivals

• Renault Clio
• Peugeot 207
• Vauxhall Corsa
• Ford Fiesta
• Toyota Yaris

What We Liked

• Exterior styling
• Ride and handling

What We Disliked

• Interior styling bland

What We'd like To See

• A Cupra version

Value for Money

We were not too keen to see that some of the safety gear is an option which effectively bumps the price up when you compare the SEAT Ibiza SC with the competition. We would not buy a car without curtains airbags or ESP.

All SEAT Ibiza SCs have the same servicing requirements. A major service is required only at 20,000-mile intervals with an oil change every 10,000 miles. SEAT Ibiza SCs which travel less than 10,000 miles a year require an inspection service, which includes an oil change every 12 months.

Plus there is a Three-year/60,000 mile warranty (comprises two-year manufacturer's warranty with unlimited mileage plus a further one-year Dealer Warranty limited to 60,000 miles).

Summary

We liked the SEAT Ibiza SC, it offers the well blended mix of a hatchback with sporty appeal. Although you could not really classify it as a hot-hatch you will need to wait for the FR and Cupra versions. However, it is fun to drive and is well worth looking at if you care what your car looks like!