FR ... He's a Jolly Good Fellow
I've been looking at the latest SEAT Ibiza FR version which caters particularly well for the acronym aficionado and introduces several technical highlights compared with the previous model, which, SEAT says, combine to provide a more intense driving experience.
Be warned... it's sharp, stylish and you'll probably want one.
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Performance wise it can be what you want it to be. You can use it as a normal automatic when it's well mannered and a pussy cat, or switch to sports mode (and let's face it you will) to make full use of the 148 brake horsepower from, yes, a 1,400cc engine.
The compact hot hatch is equipped with a state-of-the-art 150 PS twin charger 1.4 TSI engine. This means that this relatively small capacity motor is able to deliver big-engine performance through the fitment of both a supercharger and a turbocharger - a first in the supermini class.
Thanks to its latest generation technology, this engine provides greater flexibility, punchy performance and lower fuel consumption figures and emissions levels.
The high-tech theme doesn't stop there. The Ibiza FR's powerful engine is mated to a latest generation seven-speed DSG (direct shift gearbox) with motorsport-type steering wheel shift paddles fitted as standard. As on the Cupra version, the gearbox has been developed with more driver-focussed software than on the 1.6 version of the Ibiza.
Furthermore, the addition of the XDS system provides greater driver confidence and safety. This electronic system works together with ESP, improving the car's performance when traction is lost by braking the wheel that loses grip.
The Ibiza FR benefits from its own styling enhancements quite separate to either the Ibiza Cupra or other models in the range. There are new bumpers that lend a purposeful appearance, featuring front honeycomb slats and a chrome surround for the central grille in combination with the Arrow Design concept. Other tell-tale exterior elements are silver-coloured door mirror cases, exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and twin tailpipes.
The interior also conveys the car's racing nature with a specific instrument display carrying the ‘FR' (which stands for Formula Racing) logo, a new steering wheel with built-in DSG shift paddles and the seat design, whose upholstery also heavily contributes to its sporty looks.
As far as standard equipment goes, SEAT's new car is further equipped with ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Control, low tyre-pressure warning, driver and passenger airbags, head-chest airbag, trip computer, cruise control, climate control, sports suspension and cornering fog-lights, among other features.
The FR also has reasonable insurance and creeps in at group 11 and, since it's really aimed at the younger sporty driver, it needs to be affordable to them.
On West Cumbria's roads it has a firm ride which coupled with the characteristic robust seating of cars of the Volkswagen/Audi group means you'll know if you hit a pothole probably even a coin, but this is a car to get in and drive and you won't just want to ride about, you'll really want to go places. It can be a snarling beast or a long distance cruiser, in seventh gear; it has character and a lot besides to offer for its £14,999 price tag.
Juicy bits include: 0-60mph in 7.7 seconds, a top speed of 131; the seven-speed paddle shift gears; 17-inch alloy wheels; unique FR styling inside; head and chest airbags and it can even be economical because the combined mpg figure is 44.8 mpg. So what's stopping you? Available now from B&H Motors.
