The SEAT Ibiza and Arona have been around since 2017, but they’re not retiring yet.
The Ibiza in particular is still one of our favourite small cars, and the Arona is still a really good small SUV.
So, even though they’re getting on a bit, SEAT didn’t feel the need to completely redesign its key models. Just a tweak here and a sharpen up there.
You’ll note the redesigned headlights, with a slimmer LED signature that gives the cars ‘a more detemined attitude’. LED headlights are now standard.
The whole front bumper is new, with deep triangular inserts and wide, detailed air intakes. It’s a similar story around the back, where the use of black in the bumper makes the Ibiza really stand out. Big exhaust finishers add to the impression of sportiness.
Meanwhile, the Arona gets a more rugged front end treatment. The bonnet has been reprofiled to look taller, and the design is squat and SUV-like. It ties in well with the larger Ateca.
Across both cars, there’s also dark aluminium model lettering, plus new wheel designs and a selection of new colours, which are said to be ‘vibrant and youthful’.
For now, the engines remain the same. A 1.0-litre engine is the main choice across both cars, with outputs of 80hp (Ibiza only), 95hp and 115hp. The first two come with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the higher-powered version unlocks a six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed automatic gearbox.
The Arona is also available with a 150hp 1.5-litre petrol, coupled to the automatic gearbox.
SEAT has revealed that the Ibiza and Arona will gain a mild-hybrid engine in 2027, which should boost efficiency slightly.
First deliveries are due for early 2026. We don’t know prices and specifications yet, but we doubt there’ll be a big price rise. The Ibiza and Arona both currently start from close to £20,500.
The larger SEAT Leon will be refreshed later in the decade, too. SEAT has confirmed a full-hybrid petrol engine, which’ll manage a little electric-only driving, as well as a big update to the Leon range in 2029.
Search for your slick SEAT
With the Ibiza and Arona only getting minimal changes for 2026, we'd recommend saving your money and going for a low-mileage used example instead. Shop used SEAT Ibiza and used SEAT Arona cars for sale or, for more information on these two cars, read our SEAT Ibiza review and SEAT Arona review.
