
Seat Ibiza Cupra 1.8 3dr (2016-17)
Overview: The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was a standout **hot hatch**, offering a balance of **performance, affordability, and practicality**. Here’s why it was significant:
**Upgraded Engine** – It replaced the previous **1.4 TSI** with a **1.8L turbocharged engine**, delivering **189 hp** and **236 Nm of torque**, making it **quicker and more responsive** review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/seat/ibiza/sc-cupra).
**Manual Gearbox** – Unlike its predecessor, which had a **7-speed DSG**, this model featured a **6-speed manual**, improving **driver engagement** review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/seat/ibiza/sc-cupra).
**Performance & Handling** – Lowered suspension, a **limited-slip differential**, and **sharper steering** made it **more agile** than previous versions review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/seat/ibiza/sc-cupra).
**Volkswagen Polo GTI Connection** – It shared its **engine and platform** with the **VW Polo GTI**, but was **more affordable**, making it a great alternative review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/seat/ibiza/sc-cupra).
**Sporty Design** – The **aggressive styling**, **black accents**, and **Cupra badging** gave it a **distinctive look** review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/seat/ibiza/sc-cupra).
The **Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI** was a **hidden gem** in the hot hatch world, offering **strong performance** at a **competitive price**.
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Production Total: The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was part of the **fourth-generation Ibiza (6J/6P)** lineup, but its exact production total isn't widely documented. However, it was a **limited-run model**, produced for only **two years**, making it rarer than some of its rivals 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html).
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Target Age Group: The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was primarily targeted at **young driving enthusiasts**, typically in their **20s to early 30s**. It appealed to those looking for a **sporty, fun-to-drive hatchback** with **affordable performance** and **modern styling**.
Its **compact size, turbocharged engine, and sharp handling** made it popular among **urban drivers and hot hatch fans**, while its **competitive pricing** positioned it as an alternative to rivals like the **Ford Fiesta ST and Volkswagen Polo GTI**.
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Price New: The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** had a **new price of £18,320** in the UK when it was available. However, by **2026**, this model would only be available on the **used market**, with prices varying based on **condition, mileage, and demand**.
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Rivals: The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** competed with several hot hatches in the UK. Here’s how its rivals were priced when new:
### **Main Rivals & Their Prices**
1. Volkswagen Polo GTI (2016-2017)** – **£19,500**
2. Ford Fiesta ST (2016-2017)** – **£18,150**
3. Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy (2016-2017)** – **£22,500**
4. Peugeot 208 GTi (2016-2017)** – **£20,500**
The **Ibiza Cupra** was priced at **£18,320**, making it one of the more affordable options in the **hot hatch segment** while still offering **strong performance**.
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Recorded in UK 2025
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** remains a relatively rare hot hatch in the UK. While exact numbers for **2025** aren't widely documented, used car listings suggest that only a **limited number** are still available for sale.
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Common Faults
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** is a solid hot hatch, but like any car, it has some common issues to watch out for:
1. Timing Chain Wear** – Some owners report **rattling noises**, which can indicate **timing chain tensioner problems**.
2. Oil Consumption** – The **1.8 TSI engine** can use **more oil than expected**, so regular checks are essential.
3. Turbocharger Issues** – Occasional **boost leaks or wastegate problems** can affect performance.
4. DSG Gearbox Concerns** – If equipped with the **DSG transmission**, some models experience **jerky shifts or mechatronic failures**.
5. Electrical Faults** – Issues with **infotainment systems, sensors, and window regulators** have been reported.
6. Suspension Wear** – Bushings and **shock absorbers** may degrade, affecting **handling and ride comfort**.
Regular maintenance and **oil changes** help prevent many of these problems.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was part of the **fourth-generation Ibiza (6J/6P)** lineup and was available in a single **high-performance trim**.
Generations
- **Fourth Generation (6J/6P) (2008-2017)** – The **Ibiza Cupra** was introduced as the **sportiest variant** of the Ibiza range, featuring **aggressive styling, upgraded suspension, and a turbocharged engine**.
Trim Level
- **Cupra Sport Coupe (3-door)** – The **only trim available**, featuring:
- **1.8L TSI turbocharged engine** (189 hp, 236 Nm)
- **6-speed manual gearbox**
- **Lowered sports suspension**
- **17-inch alloy wheels**
- **Cupra-specific body kit**
- **Upgraded brakes and interior trim**
The **Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI** was a **hidden gem** in the hot hatch world, offering **strong performance** at a **competitive price** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html).
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Engine
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was powered by a **turbocharged inline-four engine**, delivering impressive performance for a compact hot hatch. Here are its key specifications:
- **Engine Type**: **1.8L TSI turbocharged inline-four**
- **Displacement**: **1,798 cc**
- **Fuel System**: **Direct Injection + MPI Multipoint Injection**
- **Aspiration**: **Turbocharged + Intercooler**
- **Compression Ratio**: **9.6:1**
- **Power Output**: **192 PS (189 hp) @ 4,300-6,200 rpm**
- **Torque**: **320 Nm (236 lb-ft) @ 1,450-4,200 rpm**
- **Transmission**: **6-speed manual**
- **Drivetrain**: **Front-wheel drive (FWD)**
This engine provided **strong mid-range acceleration**, making the **Ibiza Cupra** a fun and engaging hot hatch.
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Performance
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** delivered impressive performance for a compact hot hatch. Here are its key figures:
- **Power Output**: **192 PS (189 hp) @ 4,200-6,200 rpm** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html)
- **Torque**: **320 Nm (236 lb-ft) @ 1,400-4,200 rpm** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html)
- **0-62 mph (0-100 km/h)**: **6.7 seconds** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html)
- **Top Speed**: **146 mph (235 km/h)** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html)
- **Fuel Economy**: **39 MPG (6 L/100 km, 47 MPG UK)** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html)
With its **turbocharged engine, lightweight chassis, and sharp handling**, the **Ibiza Cupra** was a strong contender in the **hot hatch segment**, offering **engaging driving dynamics** at a competitive price.
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Rivals
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** competed with several hot hatches in the UK. Here’s how its main rivals stacked up in terms of performance:
**Main Rivals & Their Performance Figures**
- **Volkswagen Polo GTI (2016-2017)**
- **Power**: **192 hp**
- **Torque**: **320 Nm**
- **0-62 mph**: **6.7 sec**
- **Top Speed**: **146 mph**
- **Ford Fiesta ST (2016-2017)**
- **Power**: **182 hp**
- **Torque**: **240 Nm** (290 Nm on overboost)
- **0-62 mph**: **6.9 sec**
- **Top Speed**: **137 mph**
- **Peugeot 208 GTi (2016-2017)**
- **Power**: **208 hp**
- **Torque**: **300 Nm**
- **0-62 mph**: **6.5 sec**
- **Top Speed**: **143 mph**
- **Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy (2016-2017)**
- **Power**: **220 hp**
- **Torque**: **260 Nm**
- **0-62 mph**: **6.6 sec**
- **Top Speed**: **146 mph**
The **Ibiza Cupra** was competitive, offering **strong performance** at a **reasonable price**, making it a solid choice in the **hot hatch segment**.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** was designed as part of the **fourth-generation Ibiza (6J/6P)**, developed under **Volkswagen Group’s design direction**. While SEAT’s design team led the project, **Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos**, SEAT’s head of design at the time, played a key role in shaping the Ibiza’s sporty aesthetics.
### **Dimensions**
- **Length**: **4055 mm (159.7 inches)**
- **Width**: **1693 mm (66.7 inches)**
- **Height**: **1420 mm (55.9 inches)**
- **Wheelbase**: **2469 mm (97.2 inches)**
- **Front Track**: **1449 mm (57.1 inches)**
- **Rear Track**: **1441 mm (56.7 inches)**
- **Kerb Weight**: **1260 kg (2778 lbs)**
The **Ibiza Cupra** was compact yet **aggressive**, with a **lowered stance, sporty body kit, and sharp lines**, making it a standout in the **hot hatch segment** 1.8 TSI 192HP CUPRA Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/Seat/73721/Seat-Ibiza-SC-%286P%29-18-TSI-192HP-CUPRA.html).
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Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017) spares** in the **UK and Ireland**, here are some great sources:
- **[SEAT Direct Parts](https://seatdirectparts.co.uk/parts/category/ibiza/)** – Offers **genuine SEAT Ibiza parts**, including **engine components, suspension, and accessories**.
- **[PartsGateway](https://www.partsgateway.co.uk/car-breakers/seat/ibiza)** – A **breakers network** with over **5,000 used SEAT Ibiza parts**, including **Cupra-specific components**.
- **[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/seat-ibiza-carparts)** – An online **parts catalogue** with a wide range of **replacement parts** for the Ibiza Cupra.
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There are **SEAT specialist garages** in **Northern Ireland** that offer servicing, repairs, and diagnostics. Here are some options:
- **[SERE Motors](https://www.seremotors.com/seat/aftersales/service/)** – SEAT-approved service centers in **Belfast and Lisburn**, offering **manufacturer-approved parts, servicing, and MOT checks**.
- **[ClickMechanic](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/seat)** – A platform connecting you with **SEAT mechanics** across Northern Ireland, including **mobile services and garage repairs**.
- **[V.A.G Service & Repairs](https://www.vagservicecentre.co.uk/)** – Located in **Newtownabbey**, specializing in **Volkswagen Group vehicles**, including **SEAT servicing and diagnostics**.
- **[Sterretts Auto Centre](http://sterrettsautocentre.com/)** – A **general car repair garage in Belfast**, which may offer **SEAT servicing**.
- **[Alan McVeigh Motor Repairs](https://www.alanmcveigh.com/)** – A **well-equipped garage in Belfast**, providing **diagnostics and repairs** for various brands, including SEAT.
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Racing
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** wasn't a factory-backed racing model, but the **Cupra badge** itself has strong motorsport roots. SEAT has a history of competing in **touring car and rally events**, and some Ibiza Cupra models have been used in **club racing and track days**.
While the **1.8 TSI version** didn’t have a dedicated racing program, earlier Ibiza Cupra models were successful in **rallying**, particularly in the **British Rally Championship** and FIA 2-litre World Rally Cup. Enthusiasts have also modified the **Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI** for **track use**, benefiting from its **turbocharged power and sharp handling**.
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Valuation
The **SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 TSI (2016-2017)** remains a sought-after hot hatch in the UK, with values varying based on **condition, mileage, and demand**. Here’s a general price range:
- **Lower-end models** (high mileage or needing work): **£6,000–£8,500**
- **Well-maintained examples** (good condition, service history): **£9,000–£12,500**
- **Pristine collector-grade models** (low mileage, excellent condition): **£13,500–£16,000**
You can check current listings on platforms like **[AutoTrader UK](https://www.autotrader.co.uk/cars/used/seat/ibiza/cupra)** or **[Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/seat/ibiza/used-prices/)** for the latest market values.
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Clubs
There are **SEAT owner clubs** in **Northern Ireland** where enthusiasts can connect, share knowledge, and attend events. Here are a couple of options:
- **[MK2 SEAT Leon Owners Club Northern Ireland](https://www.facebook.com/groups/2011524432439791/)** – A Facebook group dedicated to **MK2 SEAT Leon owners**, where members discuss **parts, modifications, and events**.
- **[Donnelly Group SEAT](https://www.donnellygroup.co.uk/seat/)** – While not a traditional owner’s club, Donnelly Group is a **trusted SEAT dealership** in Northern Ireland, offering **community events and SEAT-related news**.
These clubs are great for finding **technical advice, parts, and fellow SEAT enthusiasts**.
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