SEAT Ibiza SC 1.4 Sport

The SEAT Ibiza SC looks great and for a small hatchback it packs quite a lot of space, especially considering it’s very reasonable price tag of £7,999. The Sport model comes with smart 16-inch alloy wheels, exterior body coloured mirrors, which are also electrically adjustable and heated as well as body coloured door handles and bumpers too.

The interior trim is basic but comfortable and there are a few nice toys. The entertainment system consists of six speakers, MP3 input and radio/CD player plus there are controls mounted remotely on the steering wheel. There is also a handy 12V power point in the centre console and three cupholders. The reach adjustable steering wheel and gear knob are both leather, which is a nice touch in this model.

I must admit that while this model looks quite sporty, the handling and performance are somewhat lacking in the 1.4 model.  The 16 valve engine with a five-speed manual gearbox is comfortable on the motorway but it won’t win any prizes for performance and unfortunately at speed, it rattles around a bit in the wind. It is however, perfect for short to medium journeys and with a decent amount of room would make the perfect second car for a larger family. On a combined test the Ibiza averaged just under 43mpg and at 139g/km CO2 the small hatch sits within Band E for road tax.

Safety is another plus if you’re considering the Ibiza as a family car. It comes as standard with three point seatbelts on all three rear seats, driver and passenger airbags and a seatbelt warning system. The hatch also comes as standard with height adjustable passenger seat and front seats, height adjustable front and rear head restraints as well as Isofix child seat points. Security wise, the Ibiza has an immobiliser and remote central locking.

Overall, the Seat Ibiza 1.4 Sports Coupe, is a good looking small family hatchback. It isn’t the quickest or even the most efficient small hatch on the road, but those who don’t want to compromise on style and are looking to maximise space will find this little car a great buy at £7,999 from Motorpoint in Newport.

All cars are supplied kindly by Motorpoint Newport. Founded in 1998, Motorpoint is the UK's number one car supermarket group. It currently operates from five locations - Burnley, Derby, Glasgow, Newport and Peterborough. In 2008, Motorpoint sold 35,000 new and nearly vehicles.  For more information call Motorpoint Newport on 0845 4133000 or visit Motorpoint.

I am comparing nearly new forecourt cars with within the same year of manufacture and with similar mileages. Prices featured are available at Motorpoint at the time of going to press. These prices may be subject to change at any time.