Our Fleet: Seat Ibiza SE Copa - October 2011

Much can be said for having an economical car.

Although doing your bit to help the environment is a key attribute of eco badge cars, there is also the opportunity to save on money from fuel costs to BIK tax.

With this in mind, The Seat Ibiza Ecomotive fits perfectly. Boy racers may not be fans but with only 92g CO2 and an official combined figure of 80.7mpg ultimately your wallet, as a driver, and company balance sheet should feel the benefit.

I have been driving our 1.2 SE Copa TDI Ibiza for the past two months and despite the shaky start, I am pleased to say the car is growing on me.

Arguably one of the most stylish models in the small car segment, Seat offers a good looking, well equipped and eco-friendly package.

The Ibiza is responsive with neat handling and is comfortable on long journeys. It is also a good size with ample room in the back and the boot, something that could not be said for other cars in this segment.

As a 21st century driver I do like my mod cons and I have been spoilt with my previous cars, for a car in this segment, the Ibiza is surprisingly well equipped. The long list of features includes rain sensing wipers, dark tinted rear windows which adds to its sport appeal, trip computer and start stop technology to name only a few.

The exterior is modern and trendy and the interior is roomy and comfortable. I do however have a couple of niggles.
I have been driving the car for two months and still cannot figure out what all the lever controls around the steering wheel do, there is far too much going on there.

Our Ibiza has only driven 1800 miles so the engine is still quite new and not achieving close to the official mpg, not Seat’s fault but frustrating none the less.

Despite this, the Ibiza is proving an accomplished companion and I am sure it will continue to grow on me in the months to come.