SEAT Ibiza 3 Doors 1996-1999 Photos, engines & full specs

SEAT introduced a facelifted version for the Ibiza in 1996, three years after it launched the second generation of the small-segment vehicle.

While it was based on Volkswagen's Golf MK3 platform, the Ibiza had more in common with the Polo. Sizewise, it sat between its two German cousins. Worth mentioning that it was the first car developed by the Spanish brand under Volkswagen's ownership, and that was easy to notice on material's quality and technical solutions.

SEAT slightly changed the 1996 Ibiza's exterior but enough to distinguish itself from its non-facelifted version. At the front, the carmaker installed a new bumper with an option for squared fog lights. The black side sills continued the front apron on the sides, creating the illusion of a slimmer profile. As on the front, the rear bumper lost the black rubber band. The sportiest version, named Cupra Sport GTI 2.0-liter 16-Valves, featured the longest nameplate in the SEAT range and sported a wide roof spoiler on top of the tailgate.

Inside, depending on the engine version and the trim level, the Ibiza featured two bucket seats at the front carried over from the Polo. They offered small side bolstering for the base versions but with a sportier profile for the top trim level. The black dials in the instrument cluster showed a simple design, easy to read and understand, with red lettering. For the Cupra Sport, SEAT installed white dials.

Under the hood, the Spanish carmaker installed a new range of engines, which complied with the Euro 2 emissions standard, which became mandatory in January 1997.