Ibiza Cupra to debut at Paris show

Seat is to expand its recently-launched Ibiza line-up at the Paris Motor Show next month when it unveils the Cupra and ultra-green 'Ecomotive' models.

Set to make their show debuts on October 2, the Cupra and Ecomotive are significant additions to the sharp-looking new Ibiza range - at a stroke, they become respectively the meanest and greenest versions of Seat's super mini.

The Cupra uses a 180 PS 1.4-litre petrol engine, featuring a turbocharger and a supercharger, an approach beneficial to both power delivery and fuel efficiency. This compact, potent power plant is mated to a seven-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) transmission, complete with F1-style steering wheel shift-paddles.

Based on the sport coupé three-door body shape, the Cupra boasts a bespoke look, with a new front bumper and air intakes surrounding the grille. Eye-catching 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear diffuser incorporating a centrally-placed trapezoid exhaust pipe, Cupra sports seats and track-inspired aluminium pedals are other visual highlights penned by Luc Donckerwolke, Seat's design director whose curriculum vitae includes the Lamborghini Gallardo and Murcielago.

The other high performance Ibiza - though in this context performance is measured in m/pg rather than m/ph - is the next generation Ecomotive which, just like the current model, has an official carbon dioxide emissions figure of just 99 g/km.

Available in both five door and sport coupé versions, the Ecomotive is equipped with a clean 80 PS 1.4 TDI engine with DPF diesel particulate filter. Its notably low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are achieved through engine software modifications, as well as enhancements to the gearbox and gear ratios, the fitment of new 175/70 R14 low rolling-resistance tyres and the substitution of the spare wheel for a puncture kit.

Aerodynamic performance has also been analysed, resulting in a new closed front grille and revised rear spoiler which combine to reduce air resistance. These changes do not affect the Ibiza's extrovert appearance, meaning that the Ecomotive is arguably the sportiest-looking small eco-car on the market.