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The old Ibiza Ecomotive was only ever a stopgap, filling time until Seat was able to make the sweeping, sporty lines of the new Ibiza available to eco-minded drivers.
Outside, there's no huge sign to say it's the low CO2 version. Only the 14-inch steel wheels, plus a black spoiler at the back of the top-spec model we drove, differentiate the Ecomotive from a standard Ibiza. Every other gorgeous line of the redesigned car remains, and the fresh new feel continues inside a contemporary cabin that has a basic layout but avoids feeling sparse. Electric windows are standard, while a much-needed trip computer that was absent from the cars we drove will make it onto those bound for the UK.
Seat, though, has worked jolly hard to ensure the Ibiza hasn't just got a fancy new look. The outgoing car's 99g/km CO2 was impressive, but Ford's efforts with the Fiesta Econetic must have touched a nerve, and the two superminis are now level pegging in the low emissions stakes on 98g/km.
Seat claims it has even more tricks up its sleeve for the future, though. For example, those 14-inch wheels aren't yet sitting on low rolling resistance tyres, just standard ones inflated up to a whopping 42psi. This does require the driver to keep an eye on the pressures, but do so and the benefits are noticeable.
Seat reckons the Ibiza will do 76.3mpg, which is not an outrageous claim - we managed 72.1mpg on our test route without resorting to all out eco driving.
The engine, the aerodynamics and the weight have all been tinkered with in the battle against CO2. Compared with the standard car, none of the changes affect the driving experience too much, although you'll be reminded of the focus on economy each time you turn on the ignition - the engine is the same three cylinder 1.4-litre diesel as in the old Ibiza Ecomotive, and it's still loud at standstill.
Thankfully, the noise melts away when you get moving and it's not loud enough to drown out the strong argument in favour of this car.
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