SEAT alive and giving Ibiza and Arona a second youth
SEAT Ibiza and Arona
Well, it’s about time. The current Ibiza has been running since 2017 and the Arona could use a little attention as well. Both models therefore receive a modest facelift. Not an earth-shattering innovation, but enough to put them back in the spotlight. This is not a bad thing, since news from SEAT is rare these days. Everything now revolves around the Cupra brand. Which is quite a shame, because the Ibiza in particular is such a fixture that it now feels like part of the street furniture.
What’s new?
Both models now have a slightly tighter look. The grille is now hexagonal with a kind of diamond pattern in it, the LED headlights are thinner and brighter, and the bumpers are also drawn a little sharper. Especially in the new colors, such as the deep red Liminal Red, they look quite fresh. The rims? Also new, from 15 to 18 inches.
Backside
At the rear, the designers didn’t change much. The bumpers of both models have been tightened up a bit and that’s about it. The Ibiza remains recognizable as a compact, sporty hatchback and the Arona still as a small SUV with a little spice.
Softer and darker
In the interior, SEAT has clearly put in more work. Some of the hard plastics have been replaced by softer materials and fabrics with relief. The whole looks just a little more mature. The FR Business Connect version has bucket seats with a bit more support, a steering wheel with perforated leather and black headliner that makes the interior a bit sportier.
Convenience has also been considered: a faster 15W wireless charger (with cooling, so your phone won’t glow) and an optional SEAT Sound System with six speakers and subwoofer. The infotainment remains uncluttered – no excess of menus or touch-sensitive sliders. Just buttons where they belong.
Under the hood
Under the hood, Seat keeps it simple: a 1.0 TSI three-cylinder with 70 kW (95 hp) and five-speed manual transmission or a 1.0 TSI with 85 kW (115 hp), mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Not exciting, but for a compact car like the Ibiza or Arona it is enough. In 2027 mild-hybrid variants will also arrive.
Also Read: SEAT Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid (2025) Review – The hidden gem that everyone is overlooking?