Hot SEAT Ibiza Cupra will challenge Ford Fiesta ST with new engine and gearbox

SEAT has announced that its updated Ibiza Cupra hot hatch will cost from £18,100 – £450 more than the popular Ford Fiesta ST .

. The entry level Ibiza Cupra is now £880 cheaper than before, thanks to the fact it ditches the costly DSG automatic gearbox.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra Black comes in at £18,900 and adds around £1,000 worth of equipment that creates a sportier look with black alloys and red brake callipers. It also gets a 6.5-inch navigation system as standard.

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Both models come with a new 189bhp 1.8 TSI engine, replacing the old 1.4 turbo. It gets a 22bhp boost, which allows the for a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds. All Cupras get larger brakes as well as DrivePlus driving modes – allowing owners to choose between comfort and sport setting for the throttle response and steering.

Coupled with the performance changes are improvements to the interior. With a new steering wheel, air vents, updated instrument panel and infotainment system. All cars get 17-inch wheels, auto lights and tinted glass, along with a racer central exhaust. The SEAT Ibiza Cupra is on sale now.

Are you excited about the SEAT Ibiza Cupra? Let us know in the comments section below...