Price wars in the local market have long since moved beyond just electric and plug-in models. Contrary to the usual trend, SEAT importer Champion Motors launched the renewed Ibiza and Arona without raising prices. Normally, the updates would justify a price increase.
The current Ibiza has been sold in Israel since 2017 and the Arona since 2018. Nevertheless, SEAT chose not to replace them with completely new models, opting only for updates in design and equipment, with a promise that hybrid power units will join the lineup for the first time in 2027.
Both models received a new front design, updated alloy wheels, slight changes to the profile and rear, and a more premium interior with new upholstery. In the FR trim, bucket seats are offered as standard, and both trim levels, including the base Style, feature a new six-speaker audio system. An upgraded 15W fast wireless charger has also been added. However, there is still no rear-seat air vent, as offered in the equivalent Škoda Fabia and Kamiq.
For now, there are no changes to the powertrain: A 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine with 115 hp or a 1.5-liter 150 hp engine, both with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In 2027, both models will receive a hybrid unit for the first time.
In the 1.0-liter Style versions (NIS 122,500 for the Ibiza, NIS 133,000 for the Arona), both models come with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, a large multimedia screen (8.25-inch in Ibiza, 9.2-inch in Arona) with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a rear-seat air vent (in the Arona).
With the same engine in the FR version (from NIS 133,000 in the Ibiza and NIS 138,000 in the Arona), wheels increase to 17 inches, a sunroof and sport seats are added, and the Ibiza features a 9.2-inch screen.
The 1.5 FR version (from NIS 140,000 in the Ibiza, NIS 144,000 in the Arona) upgrades to 18-inch wheels and more advanced LED lighting.
Safety: Both models earned 5 out of 5 stars in the European crash test, feature autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Arona also includes blind-spot detection and autonomous braking when reversing.
The Ibiza and Arona will be cheaper than the equivalent Škoda Fabia and Kamiq models, as well as similar European models. They will face stronger competition from small Chinese cars like the MG3 and crossovers like the Chery Tiggo 4, both of which already have hybrid versions.