SEAT's hot hatch double

SEAT has given its sporty credentials a double boost by unveiling two new hot hatches, including a brand new 'twincharged' Ibiza FR. The hot new supermini is powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged and supercharged engine which means, as SEAT puts it, that a 'relatively small capacity powerplant is able to deliver big engine performance.' It's the first time the engine, which can be found in the VW Golf, has been used in a supermini.

There's no word on performance yet, but a 0-62mph sprint of around eight seconds sounds about right, with combined fuel economy approaching 50mpg. The Ibiza FR can also be equipped with a seven-speed DSG double-clutch gearbox, programmed for sportiness, and the car comes as standard with SEAT's XDS electronic limited slip differential for a more dynamic drive. The look is enhanced with a unique bodykit, 17-inch alloy wheels and twin tailpipes, and inside there's a set of sports seats and a distinctive flat-bottomed steering wheel.

The hot new Ibiza will be unveiled at the Barcelona Motor Show in May, the same time as the facelifted flagship Leon Cupra, which retains its 237bhp turbocharged TSI engine but gets a raft of visual revisions. Starting inside, the cabin gets the same overhaul as the rest of the range, of course, but Cupra enhancements include a pair of bucket seats, a flat-bottomed wheel and aluminium pedals. On the outside, 18-inch alloys set it apart from lesser models, as do black wing mirrors and chrome tailpipe. The 0-62mph sprint is done with in just 6.4 seconds, yet SEAT claims 34mpg is achievable. The Leon Cupra goes on sale in July, but you'll have to wait until September to get your hands on the Ibiza FR.

Mark Nichol