The 2009 Seat Ibiza is an early example of the fourth-generation version of the Spanish brand’s supermini contender. And in true Marlon Brando style, it really was a contender, despite the supermini class containing some extremely talented - not to mention popular - alternatives. The Seat was fairly practical, with a big boot for the class, and it was a pleasant car to drive, with peppy engines, neat handling and a comfortable ride. Interior quality wasn’t up to the standards of the class best, but that was forgivable given that the Ibiza was more affordable than many rivals.

Strengths:

Pleasant to drive
Big boot
Fairly stylish

Weaknesses:

Slightly dull interior
Basic model are, well, basic
Mechanical worries over dual-clutch gearbox

Is the 2009 Seat Ibiza better than the 2009 Ford Fiesta?

In our book, no, but that’s no disgrace on the Ibiza. Remember we said that the supermini class had lots of talented and popular contenders? Well, the Fiesta was the most talented and most popular of the lot. It drove with an alacrity and poise that no rival could mimic, and it was comfy, too.