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Don Booker is amazed with the SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive
By Don Booker MBE
 Only those with an old car could expect to get exemption from buying a road fund licence. That was until the SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive came on the scene.
Not only is it great to be in a tax-exempt band, but to also get over 74mpg on the combined test makes life really worth living.
SEAT has always been well regarded in the supermini category and has won many awards, but now they are offering the Ibiza Ecomotive in three or five door styles, the three-door version I tested costing £10,995.
We have heard so much about petrol-electric hybrid cars, but their makers must envy this SEAT package which costs so much less than these hybrids.
Under the bonnet is a three-cylinder diesel with very low emissions which develops 80bhp, has a top speed of 109mph and takes 12.8 seconds to travel from 0 to 62.
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The Ecomotive may be a bit noisy on tick-over compared to some diesels, but my word once those revs are up it is difficult to realise the power does not come from petrol. It is a lively performer and offers an enjoyable ride.
A compact car, the fuel tank holds just 45 litres, but they would take the car over 730 miles with no need to call for a refill, except for the driver and passengers.
It proved a little gem during my short time at the wheel and it was an eye-catcher with sporty styling, deep front bumper with smart air intake design, double headlamps and that now famous SEAT grille that has become a trade mark.
Inside, there are no fancy touches, just plain practicality, yet standard are electric windows, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, CD player with wheel-mounted controls, anti-lock brakes, remote central locking, split folding seat to name just a few.
Let’s not forget air conditioning and speed sensitive electric power steering and a rear wash-wipe facility.
As I drove down the country lanes those picking black berries put down their buckets – yes, buckets the bushes were weighted down – to look at the stylish economy car.
Those looking for style must certainly turn their attentions to the SEAT range especially the new Ibiza SC which has followed the tail pipes of other super-looking cars from the maker.
The SC has been designed to be even more sporty with high levels of safety and comfort. The roof and profile is different and so is the rear. The rear shoulders of the car are muscular and the wheel arches are flared.
Inside there are plain but quality touches and the first thing one notices is the sports car driving position.
The smooth power came from a 1.4 16-valve unit offering 85bhp and top speed of 110mph with 0-62mph coming in at 12.2 seconds. Combined consumption is about 45mpg.
It costs £5 under £10,000 and the road tax this time is £120.
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