You might feel the 'hot hatch' is fading fast, given the attention to green credentials these days and the recession forcing many to choose very economical models to get maximum miles per gallon. Yet there is still a strong demand for hot hatches Ð VW, for example, offers the iconic Golf GTi and there are popular Renaultsport versions of the Clio.
SEAT (part of the VW group) has long been noted for its penchant for sporty models, and its Ibiza Cupra is a case in point. Here is a car that can deliver very sporty driving yet exceptionally good fuel economy, a true 'best of both worlds' package. The Ibiza Cupra is powered by a 1.4 litre petrol engine that has been boosted to 178hp. Top speed is 140 mph, and the 0-60 mph time is just 7.2 seconds - both figures genuinely in the sports-car class. Yet despite this potency, the combined fuel figure is a remarkable 44.1 mpg, meaning you can have a little driving fun while not paying a heavy penalty at the pump. The Cupra is an attractively styled car, with sleek lines, a massive front-grill 'mouth' and a coil-spring stance which suggests hidden power. The suspension is firm, as you might expect, but not excessively so. You can still get a relatively comfortable ride at lower speeds without feeling the need to visit an osteopath!
There is plenty of engine power on tap right through the rev-range, though the seven-speed DSG auto transmission on my test version was occasionally a little slow to change gear. There is a Sport mode if you are keen to really get going, and a paddle shift too, though personally I find paddles more irritating than practical! Handling is sharp and assured, though at times I felt the power steering was a little light Ð I would have preferred more road-feel.
This version of the Ibiza is priced at £16, 545, and comes across as good value. Its VW DNA means you get excellent build-quality and standard of finish, and the standard specification is very good. It includes the usual power windows/mirrors, remote locking, air-con, radio/CD, and adds goodies such as grippy contoured sports seats and eye-catching 17-inch alloy wheels. It's a hard-to-beat overall package.
