Ibiza MK2 Encyclopedia

Print this page

About

Ibiza Mk. 2
The Mk. 2(6K) was the first Ibiza to be produced under Volkswagen Group management and used the underpinnings of the Mk. 3 VW Polo 6KV (actually, the underpinnings of the VW Golf III). It suffered a little from brand identity issues on release. Originally seen as cheap VW, the launch of the Cupra models and rallying success gave it a much stronger sporty image, which aligned with VW's acquisition of Škoda as a budget brand.

Under Volkswagen's ownership, Seat was marketed as a sporty and youthful brand whose cars were sold at competitive prices. The original Ibiza's problems with bad build quality and unreliability were rectified, as the Ibiza proved itself to be one of the best built and most reliable small cars in Europe.

The Ibiza was also produced in South Africa and Argentina as the VW Polo Playa.

Summary
The second-generation Ibiza supermini was a huge improvement on the first SEAT product to carry the name. Volkswagen's input shows in the solidly built bodies, quality finish and paintwork, durable engines, assured handling and firm ride. Ibiza is a competitively priced used car that offers a less expensive but satisfying alternative to VW's own Polo.

Some finer Details
The Ibiza has a Mk2 Golf front suspension set-up and a Mk4 Polo rear, so the rear track is 37mm narrower than the front.