SEAT Ibiza FR Edition unveiled

The new SEAT Ibiza FR is on sale now, and is available with a new (more economical) 1.4-litre petrol engine and more equipment as standard. In addition to the new engine, prices now start at £1,015 less than previous models, and cost from £15,920 – with first deliveries in June.

Alongside the new engine, the company has launched a new SEAT Ibiza FR Edition model, which costs just £600 more than the normal SEAT Ibiza FR, yet adds a generous £1,130 worth of extra equipment. All FR Edition models get red seatbelts, titanium-coloured 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control and dark tinted rear windows.

The new engine comes as standard on both FR and FR Edition models and is much cheaper to run than the old version. It emits just 109g/km of CO2, meaning you'll pay just £20 for annual road tax – and £110 less than on previous models fitted with the older, less-economical engine. The fuel economy has also been boosted by 12.2mpg, allowing up to 60.1mpg if you consider yourself an economical driver.

Clever cylinder deactivation technology in the engine makes this possible by switching off two of its cylinders – which could otherwise waste fuel – when the car is cruising along at steady speeds. It then turns them back on when more power is needed, without any input from the driver.

All brand-new SEATs also get a three-year warranty that covers the repair costs of any manufacturer faults for up to 60,000 miles. You can also rely on the SEAT Ibiza’s safety credentials because it scored a full-five star rating in the 2011 Euro NCAP crash tests.

For all the latest reviews across the SEAT range, visit the Carbuyer SEAT reviews page.