New car news

03 March 2009 - 11:00

Geneva show: Seat Ibiza Cupra

We've known about the Ibiza Cupra for a while now, but here in Geneva, Seat has finally unveiled its double-hot supermini along with a bunch of technical specs that make us very happy indeed.

The Ibiza Cupra is powered by a tuned-up version of the VW Group's 1.4-litre turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine, putting out a feisty 180bhp through a seven-speed flappy-paddled DSG ‘box.

That's good for a 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds - which is quicker than the Abarth Punto but just a bit slower than the Vauxhall Corsa VXR - and a top speed of 135mph.

The twin chargers are good news for economy and emissions: Seat claims a respectable 42mpg and 149g/km respectively.

There's a bit of kit to distinguish the Cupra from the base-spec Ibiza, too: 17-inch wheels - though to be honest we reckon they could do with being even bigger - a flat-based steering wheel and a new front end which includes an odd quintet of slats under the grille, giving the Cupra a curious toothy grin.

With no word on a new Fiesta ST, will this be the mini hot hatch of choice when it goes on sale this summer? Thoughts please...