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2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon

The current SEAT Ibiza has received several updates. Some might say that it has lingered on for too long, but we now have the first images of the next generation. Hooray!
2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon 10 photos
Photo: SB-Medien
2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon2017 SEAT Ibiza Spied for the First Time, Looks Like a Baby Leon
Very little is known about the next Ibiza, and that's just the way SEAT wants it. This is by no means the most profitable car made by the company, but it needs a big update nevertheless. We say 'update' because the Ibiza will combine elements from its old self with those of the MQB platform.

The definition of the MQB says the distance between the center of the front wheel and the firewall is the same. But it's much shorter here than on the Ateca and Leon.

However, the engines will be those from the MQB family. We believe that the 1.0 TSI turbo will play a crucial role in this car, probably receiving three or four different outputs and replacing the 1.2 TSI altogether.

Downsizing is also on the agenda in the diesel department, where the 1.4 TDI will take over every job available. It's worth pointing out that both these units have only three cylinders.

We believe there aren't going to be any powerful diesel engines, but there might be a few petrol ones. SEAT will rely on either the 1.4 TSI or the newer 1.5 TSI that Volkswagen has developed. It's hard to tell which, as not even Audi was allowed access to the variable geometry turbo tech. Later on, there could be a new Ibiza Cupra, but it will take at least another two years.

Speaking of the time frame, the latest info suggests the wraps will be taken off this Ibiza prototype at the Paris Motor Show 2016 in the fall, where a facelift for the Leon will also be shown.

Most importantly, this car is all about the spirit, not the technology. It's a 5-door hatchback for young men who like to drive and a gateway for the SEAT brand. As such, if it ends up looking like a baby Leon, we will be more than happy.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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