SEAT Ibiza ST estate debuts at Paris Motor Show
SEAT has expanded its Ibiza lineup at the 2012 Paris Motor Show with the unveiling of the Ibiza ST estate, offering increased practicality and a wide range of engines.
SEAT has introduced the Ibiza ST estate at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, presenting the third bodyshell variant in the Ibiza range. The new model joins the three-door Ibiza SC and five-door hatch, targeting buyers who need more space without giving up the style and driving character associated with the Ibiza.
The Ibiza ST offers a 430-litre boot, which can be expanded to 1,164 litres by folding the 60:40 split rear bench. SEAT claims the load area can accommodate two bicycles with their front wheels removed, and the estate can handle a maximum payload of 515kg. For those needing to tow, the Ibiza ST is rated for up to 1,200kg (braked, with an 8 percent incline), depending on engine choice.
Practicality without compromise
SEAT has aimed to balance practicality with the Ibiza’s established design language. The estate shares the sharp, sporty lines of its hatchback siblings, but adds a longer roofline and extended rear to boost cargo space. Standard equipment includes illumination and bag hooks in the boot, while options extend to luggage nets and a storage box under the boot floor.
The Ibiza ST enters a competitive segment, facing rivals such as the Skoda Fabia Combi and Ford Fiesta estate in European markets. Its combination of compact exterior dimensions and substantial luggage capacity is aimed at young families, urban drivers with active lifestyles, and those seeking a small car with genuine estate versatility.
Engine range and FR variant
SEAT offers the Ibiza ST with a choice of three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The petrol range starts with a 1.2-litre 60hp unit and extends to the 1.4 TSI, which uses both a supercharger and turbocharger to produce 150hp. For the first time, the estate will be available in the FR trim, pairing the sportier chassis and styling with this more powerful engine. Diesel options include a 1.2 TDI CR with 75hp and a 1.6 TDI CR available in 90hp and 105hp outputs.
SEAT’s focus on efficiency is reflected in the engine choices, with the entry-level petrol and diesel units targeting low running costs. The 1.4 TSI FR version is aimed at buyers seeking more performance without moving to a larger car. Full technical details, including fuel consumption and emissions figures, are expected to follow as the model approaches market launch.
Position in SEAT’s range
The Ibiza ST rounds out the Ibiza family, offering a bodystyle that had previously only been previewed by the IBZ concept at the 2009 Frankfurt show. With the arrival of the estate, SEAT now provides a direct alternative to other Volkswagen Group small estates. For more on SEAT’s Paris reveals, see coverage of the new Leon at2013 Seat Leon makes official debut at Paris Motor Show.
