With lines devised by the former Lamborghini designer Luc Donkerwolke, this three-door ‘Sports Coupe’ has a strikingly exciting appearance. One of Seat’s most popular models, accounting for 45% of the company’s sales, the Ibiza has some attractive new features.

The new model has a longer, wider platform than its predecessor, which largely translates into a bigger boot but certainly makes the cabin feel more spacious too. The backs of the front seats are curved, cunningly supplying more leg space for the rear passengers, and all the seats are sculpted and exceptionally comfortable.

The suspension provides a smooth ride for day to day urban driving, although if you opt for the sports suspension it’ll all feel a lot firmer. The car has undoubtedly benefited from improved shock absorbers and softer springs, making the drive a softer one than the earlier Ibizas could deliver. The 1.4 turbo petrol engine is zingier and more spirited than the 1.6 petrol. The new super- and turbocharged Cupra versions (‘Cupra’ mixes the words ‘Cup’ and ‘Racing’ ) yields a thumping 178 bhp. The car is responsive and lively to drive and, as part of the VW group, solidly reliable.

It is a little too small to function as a good family car but it’s not tiny and, for relatively modest journeys, it’ll do fine in this department.

What sets the SEAT Leon Sport apart from the typical family hatchback is its Iberian attitude and stunning looks. This car is a product of Spanish spark and German engineering.

Engineered by Volkswagen, the SEAT Leon Sport is always associated with the ever popular Volkswagen Golf. What separates it from the rest of the hatchbacks out there however, is its design, which combines German quality and Spanish flair. Buyers can choose between the 138bhp 2.0 TDI diesel and 123bhp 1.4-litre petrol TSI engines. These two engines are not that powerful, but they are still enough to give the car a sports tag.

The 1.4TSI engine has a maximum torque of 148lb at 1,750rpm. It produces 123bhp at 5,600rpm. With this type of engine, the SEAT Leon Sport can sprint from 0-62 mph in 9.8 seconds. Its maximum speed is 122 mph.

On the other hand, the diesel counterpart packs 138bhp at 4,000rpm, along with a torque of around 1,750 and 2,500rpm. With this engine on board, the Leon Sport can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 9.3 seconds.

The SEAT Leon Sport’s suspension set-up offers a reasonable handling compromise. It also comes with electric power steering and a six-speed gearbox. Volkswagen’s DSG automatic gearbox is an option in the 2.0TDI’s transmission. This particular gearbox is one of the fastest and smoothest when it comes to reaction.

The Leon is bigger than most models in its class; a long journey would not be difficult with this type of vehicle. The steering wheel and the front seat are both multi-adjustable. Overall, it is a good-looking and well-equipped vehicle with a durable engine.

The SEAT Leon Sport is no doubt one of the best SEAT models ever created.