Unveiled in 2001 at the Bologna Motor Show, the third generation SEAT Ibiza signalled a significant leap in manufacturing quality, engineering, dynamic performance, and design language.
Legendary designer Walter de Silva working with the Martorell Design Centre brought a new level of energy and sportiness to the line-up. The SEAT Ibiza featured an undeniably striking silhouette to the segment that underlined its increased agility.
The new “Agile Chassis concept” was used across the SEAT Ibiza’s entire range giving the vehicle its incredible dynamic capabilities. Its performance credentials were heightened further by the increase in the power bar, with engines of up to 130PS.
By 2004 the Ibiza was already celebrating its 20th anniversary, not only a reflection of the cars incredible impact on SEAT, but the market too, underscored by more than 3.3 million units manufactured across all three generations. And what better way to mark the success of the small car than the introduction of new sporty versions that would become the Spanish brand’s enthusiast cars of choice. Welcome the FR trim. The SEAT Ibiza FR was offered with 130PS 1.9 TDI diesel and 150PS 1.8-litre petrol turbo engines.
The MK 3 SEAT Ibiza continued its developmental journey, with more variants and improvements introduced to the line-up. In February 2006 the SEAT Ibiza debuted a new, more modern, and yet more sporty image with new interior trim and new bumpers on a range that, in its home market, offered 18 versions and combined five trim levels with no fewer than 11 engine choices.
And as consumer outlook changed and greater emphasis was placed on efficiency and environmental concerns, the SEAT Ibiza adapted to the shift. In 2007, equipped with an 80PS 1.4-litre TDI engine and diesel particulate filter, the first-generation Ibiza Ecomotive, instantly became the greenest car in its segment with CO2 emissions of only 99 g/km.