Seat boss: New Ibiza matches Toyota quality
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“The Ibiza’s quality now matches that of Toyota,” said Seat President Erich Schmidt.
The Ibiza is the first small model to use VW group’s PQ25 architecture, which later will underpin the VW Polo.
Jordi Cabanero, Seat’s head of quality assurance, said Seat has matched Toyota quality by “monitoring systematically information from customers and establishing quick programs to turn the findings into product improvement.”
Seat has copied several Audi processes as well, Cabanero said.
The Ibiza is Seat’s best-selling model with sales of 115,936 units in Europe last year.
What you need to know
How has the new Ibiza changed?
Better perceived quality, a more sporty, improved braking system and electronic stability control. Also, the new Ibiza will have a wider track and longer wheelbase.
Is the target to sell more or fewer units than its predecessor?
The aim is to sell more by adding variants such as a station wagon and a coupe to the model range.
2007 sales: 172,512
Best sales year of current Ibiza: 200,328 in 2003**
What new technologies does the new model have?
New construction has reduced the weight by 47kg. A modular dashboard and a high-end audio system have been added.
Who supplies the new technology?
Peguform (dashboard modules), Blaupunkt (audio system).
**JATO Dynamics
Code-name: SE250
Launch date: May
Platform: VW group PQ25
Segment: Small
Production: 210,000 in 2010*
Main competitors: Peugeot 207, Renault Clio, Fiat Grande Punto, Ford Fiesta, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa
Starting price: €11,790 (Germany)
Where built: Martorell, Spain
CO2 emissions: 92g/km (1.4-liter diesel) to more than 160g/km (1.4-liter gasoline)
*Global Insight estimate
