Seat expands Ibiza range with new Bocanegra model

Around this time last year we brought you news about a handsome Seat concept car that had appeared at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Known as the Bocanegra (black mouth in English), the concept was supposed to preview the next generation of Seat Ibiza's performance variant, the Cupra. When the production version of the Ibiza Cupra was revealed, however, it looked nowhere near as visually stunning as the Bocanegra concept that had preceded it.

Now, Seat is resurrecting the dramatically styled concept in the form of a new production version that debuted this week at the Barcelona Motor Show. The original concept, penned by former Lamborghini designer Luc Donckerwolke, was lauded for its aesthetic appeal. Donckerwolke even promised fans that Seat would have bolder models from now on - a promise that didn't really come through in the case of the Ibiza Cupra, but has now been redressed.

The new car’s styling is also a tribute to Seat’s original Bocanegra, the 1200 Sport, which debuted back in 1975. It features black double headlights, a central grille with honeycomb mesh and black surrounds including new air vents at the base. The bumper combines black with the body colour, while a broad grille beneath that takes care of cooling the engine. Other elements include black door mirror housings, a dark tinted sunroof and 17in ‘Sira’ alloys.

Power will come from VW Group’s familiar 1.4L TFS engine with either 150hp or 180hp on tap. Adding to the performance theme is Seat’s XDS electronic limited slip differential and a seven-speed DSG.

Inside, the Bocanegra gets black sports seats with contrasting red stitching, a three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel, gloss black trim, aluminum pedals, and Bocanegra logos.

Sales are expected to start in Europe towards the end of the year, and with a new, more aggressive appearance and a solid compromise between economy and power, we're expecting the new Ibiza model to have customers lining up.