Sporting SEAT Ibiza Cupra arrives

SEAT revealed its performance flagship Cupra model in France this week, the hot Ibiza promising punchy performance with its Twincharger 180bhp engine and seven-speed DSG gearbox.

What's all the fuss about?

SEAT's Ibiza Cupra was finally unveiled in Paris, giving hot hatch fans another supermini-based performance car to lust after. Following the usual performance model route the Cupra gains sportier looks with deeper front and rear bumpers, large alloy wheels and an interior fitted with sports seats, piano black elements to the centre console and paddle-shifters behind the chunky steering wheel.

Anything that stands out?

Those steering wheel-mounted paddles operate the seven-speed DSG twin-clutch automatic transmission. The Cupra is the first supermini to be fitted with Volkswagen Group's brilliant, near seamless automatic transmission. With its super fast changes the DSG is perfectly suited to the 180bhp 1.4-litre engine that utilises both a turbocharger and a supercharger. Taking this route on the engine enables the Cupra to offer the sort of range-topping performance that hot hatch buyers expect, but with improved economy and emissions. The numbers say that the Cupra is able to reach 62mph in just 7.5 seconds, yet return a very respectable 42mpg and CO₂ emissions of just 159g/km.

When can I buy one?

The Ibiza Cupra will reach SEAT showrooms in the first half of 2009. SEAT hasn't revealed any price or specification details yet, but the Spanish brand typically majors on good value and generous standard specification levels.

Extra images by United Pictures

Kyle Fortune