IT WASN’T that long ago that the big news from the launch of the new high powered Seat Ibiza models would have been the introduction of the 1.4 TSI engine. With its supercharger forcing the induction issue at the bottom and turbocharger forcing the issue at the top, it’s able to offer a combination of performance and economy that deserves to still be grabbing the headlines in its own right.

As it happens, the engine is only part of the story when it comes to the new models, as the high-end transmission and introduction of a new ‘collector’s piece’ variant are equally keen to steal the show.

It probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Ibiza is benefitting from an onslaught of eye-catching technology. It was launched with the brand new platform from the Volkswagen Group before even the Volkswagen Polo was able to benefit from it. Add to that styling by a designer who previously reported to Lamborghini and its clear that Seat is holding its own within the bustling Volkswagen Group stable.

The three new Ibiza models, FR, Cupra and Bocanegra, are set bolster Seat’s sporting reputation. Using the impressive TSI engine in two outputs, 148bhp and 177bhp, all three make use of the seven-speed DSG gearbox and XDS traction system.

Seat fans will be familiar with the FR and Cupra versions, the Cupra (Cup Racing) being the more powerful of the two in the UK market, but may not be so familiar with the Bocanegra. The original Bocanegra (“Black Mouth” in Spanish) was the Seat 1200 Sport, an iconic two-door coupe manufactured for the Spanish market between 1974 and 1979. The model got its name from its unconventional black, plastic face.

Based on the new Ibiza Cupra the Bocanegra, with its black mouth and additional standard equipment and trim, is an obvious nod to the company’s sporting past. The underpinnings remain the same as the Cupra model, but more aggressive styling, charismatic headlights and a distinctive, individually styled interior mark the model out as a little different. Built in limited numbers, Seat hopes the car’s additional character and potential collector’s piece appeal will be enough to attract the most “discerning customers”.

The 177bhp engine is likely to play some part in the decision making process, too. Already proven elsewhere in the Volkswagen Group line-up, the 1.4 TSI is an equally impressive performer under the bonnet of the Ibiza. With twin chargers, power is always available and the engine revs around the clock without any flat spots. Although the Bocanegra won’t outgun its rivals in terms of outright power, its delivery is unremitting and smooth, despite the gurgle and fizz from the two compressors.

With a cutting edge chassis and a suspension set-up that allows the model to sit lower and features firmer springs over up-rated dampers, the Bocanegra’s handling is suitably inspiring. The clever XDS system brakes the wheel that loses traction into and out of the corners, meaning there’s a very direct feel to the front end and a reassuring level of grip. It doesn’t feel artificial either, with the system maximising traction without stunting the engine’s performance.

In the UK, the FR, Cupra and Bocanegra are only available as three-door models and with the seven-speed DSG gearbox. While the former makes sense, the latter is less convincing. The impressive engine and chassis feel as though they would benefit from a manual gearbox option. The DSG unit, although very quick to shift gears, can feel detached and is occasionally reluctant to provide the chosen gear when using the neatly formed and intuitive paddles. In fully auto mode it can be confused by taxing, twisty sections, occasionally opting to change mid-corner and diluting some of the fun. However, once familiar with its modus operandi, it can offer an entertaining experience and for regular cruising on the motorway and around town it’s a very compliant transmission.

Inside, the three-door Ibiza offers a respectable amount of space and comfort. The wheelbase is quite long meaning room for rear passengers is good while the front of the cabin features decent equipment levels and a more upmarket dash design than Seat’s of old. The chunky steering wheel compliments the weighty, communicative steering and the seats are well padded and well bolstered – helping to mitigate for the slightly offset pedals.

With the Bocanegra, Seat has a distinctive model to bring to the hot-hatch party. Whether customers feel that the limited edition model is worth the additional £1000 over the ‘standard’ Cupra will depend on personal tastes, but drivers can be assured of a distinctive, competent and technologically advanced model regardless of their final choice.