Drivetimeextra
SEAT is updating its hugely popular Ibiza hatchback and concentrating on the car’s technology.
The Ibiza is the most successful car in the company’s history with nearly six million sales since the first version appeared back in 1984 and the changes should help continue its success.
The interior is being given a new lease of life with a new floating central infotainment system that has the screen increased in size by more than 20 per cent compared to its predecessor – the standard screen is now 8.25in (SE trim only) – with the larger 9.2in screen on SE Technology models and above.
Additionally, a high- resolution 10.25in Digital Cockpit (driver binnacle) on FR Sport and Xcellence Lux models lift the Ibiza’s interior into the digital age.
Another highlight of the revised interior is the completely new soft dashboard, as well as the new ergonomic multifunction Nappa leather steering wheel.
The latest Ibiza is now fully connected with in-car connectivity (online-based functions and services; Full Link including wireless access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto wired) and out- of- car connectivity with SEAT CONNECT.
With the integration of the wireless Full Link system, customers can access their digital lives no matter what device they use, be it Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It simplifies the process of bringing in contact lists, music and navigation systems, all accessed via the intuitive, floating central touchscreen or integrated steering wheel controls.
Natural voice recognition makes using the technology safe and simple, much like consumer electronics home assistants (saying “Hola Hola” wakes up the system, or it can be activated via the steering wheel-mounted button).
Voice recognition allows the user to interact with the infotainment system using natural commands, making corrections and referencing previous commands Online Connectivity via the embedded SIM (eSIM) means that Ibiza should never lose its connection to the digital world and allows users access to the latest infotainment apps, as well as be able to offer new digital products and services throughout its lifetime.
From the SEAT Connect app, users can remotely access driving data of previous journeys and remaining range, parking position, lock and unlock the doors, set up speed alerts so they can be warned if someone using their vehicles is driving too fast, be alerted if their vehicle has been stolen, or activate the horn and turn signals to find the car more easily in a crowded car park.
Lighting technology is a central part of any vehicle’s ‘ face’ and the SEAT Ibiza now integrates full LED technology as standard.
Eco LEDs are standard on SE and SE Technology models, while FR models upwards get full LED technology, offering better visibility with lower energy consumption.
Under the bonnet, the new SEAT Ibiza will offer a trio of three-cylinder petrol powertrains in various outputs.