The hatchback 3 doors SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1999 - 2002 year modification 1.8 MT (156 hp)

SEAT Ibiza Cupra: A Compact Powerhouse

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra, a Spanish-made hatchback, is a car that combines sporty performance with practicality. Produced between 1999 and 2002, this three-door hatchback is a standout in the B-class segment. With its turbocharged 1.8-liter petrol engine, the Ibiza Cupra delivers an impressive 156 horsepower, making it a thrilling ride for enthusiasts. Its compact dimensions and lightweight design further enhance its agility, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and highways.

Performance and Efficiency

The Ibiza Cupra is no slouch when it comes to performance. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 218 km/h. Despite its sporty nature, the car maintains a reasonable fuel efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption of 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers. The turbocharged engine ensures a robust torque output of 210 Nm, available across a wide range of RPMs, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience.

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the Ibiza Cupra features a 1.8-liter inline-four petrol engine with turbocharging, producing 156 horsepower at 5800 RPM. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, offering precise gear shifts and a direct connection to the road. The front-wheel-drive setup ensures excellent traction, while the independent front and semi-independent rear suspension systems provide a balanced and comfortable ride.

Design and Dimensions

The Ibiza Cupra's design is both sporty and functional. Measuring 3875 mm in length, 1640 mm in width, and 1420 mm in height, it strikes a perfect balance between compactness and interior space. The 2443 mm wheelbase contributes to stable handling, while the 145 mm ground clearance ensures the car can handle a variety of road conditions. The 16-inch wheels, paired with 195/45 R16 tires, offer excellent grip and stability.

Interior and Practicality

Despite its sporty credentials, the Ibiza Cupra doesn't compromise on practicality. The three-door hatchback offers a surprisingly spacious interior, with a trunk capacity ranging from 270 to 800 liters, depending on the rear seat configuration. The car's curb weight of 1120 kg contributes to its nimble handling, while the 45-liter fuel tank ensures decent range between fill-ups.

Suspension and Braking

The Ibiza Cupra is equipped with an independent front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension, both with spring setups, providing a comfortable yet sporty ride. The braking system features ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, ensuring reliable stopping power even during spirited driving. This combination of suspension and braking systems makes the Ibiza Cupra a well-rounded performer in both daily driving and more demanding conditions.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The SEAT Ibiza Cupra offers a thrilling driving experience with its turbocharged engine and sporty handling. Its compact size makes it ideal for urban environments, while the spacious interior and versatile trunk space add to its practicality. The car's fuel efficiency is commendable for a performance-oriented vehicle, and its design is both stylish and functional.
• Cons: The three-door configuration may not be as convenient for rear passengers as a five-door model. Additionally, the car's production ended in 2002, so finding a well-maintained model may require some effort. The fuel consumption in city driving is relatively high, which could be a concern for those who primarily drive in urban areas.

Conclusion

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is a car that successfully blends sporty performance with everyday practicality. Its turbocharged engine, responsive handling, and compact design make it a standout choice for driving enthusiasts. While it may have some limitations, such as the three-door configuration and higher city fuel consumption, its overall package is hard to beat. For those seeking a fun and practical hatchback, the Ibiza Cupra is certainly worth considering.