Used Seat Ibiza FR cars

The Ibiza FR is a sporty trim level of the Seat Ibiza hatchback. It’s not a proper high-performance ‘hot hatch’ – rather, it’s a version of an Ibiza that gives you a sporty look and feel while still keeping costs relatively low.

The Ibiza is Seat’s small hatchback, and a rival for cars like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo and Renault Clio. It’s quite a sporty car, both in how it looks and how it feels behind the wheel. It’s aimed at those who enjoy driving, but even if that’s not a priority for you, it’s impressively practical for its size and feels well made. Both three-door and five-door models are available, and there are plenty of versions to choose from. Older models were also made as a practical estate, called the Ibiza ST.

FR is a trim level that is available for most Seat models. It stands for Formula Racing, which hints at the sporty features you get with it.

Most Ibiza FRs that you’ll find for sale on Cazoo will be the latest model, introduced in 2017. There are actually two FR models within the range, called FR and FR Sport. They sit squarely in the middle of the trim level range, which starts with SE and moves up to SE Technology, FR, FR Sport, Xcellence and, at the top, the Xcellence Lux.

Older models were sold new between 2008 and 2017, and the FR sat at the top of the range, which included the S, SOL, SE, SE Copa, Toca, Sport, Ecomotive and FR models, as well as the high-performance Cupra hot hatch.

The FR model has proved popular with buyers because of its sporty looks and good equipment levels while still being very affordable for this type of car. For that reason, there are lots of used examples to choose from.

The Ibiza FR is a trim level rather than an entirely different Ibiza. The main differences are in the way it looks, thanks to the FR’s cosmetic upgrades. On the latest model, these include larger alloy wheels, a different rear bumper styling and dark-tinted rear side windows that give it a more stylish, sporty look. It also has more supportive seats and other sporty touches inside.

In terms of standard equipment, the latest Ibiza FR comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted windows, as well as bright full LED headlights and electrically folding door mirrors. Styling features on the exterior include black window surrounds and black door mirrors, as well as a spoiler at the back, and twin exhausts. 

Inside, you’ll find cloth-covered sports seats and dual-zone air conditioning, which lets you have different temperatures on each side of the car. Like other Ibiza models, you’ll also get a touchscreen infotainment system with sat nav and Apple CarPlay.

The suspension is firmer than on other Ibiza models, which makes the car feel more agile through corners, although it also makes for a less supple ride over bumps.

The FR Sport model is one step above the Ibiza FR, adding 18-inch black and grey alloy wheels, more comfort-focused seats trimmed in synthetic suede, and a ‘digital cockpit’, which is a screen in front of the driver that replaces traditional dials.

The older model – sold new until 2017 – has a very similar vibe, but less high-tech equipment. However, as the top model in the range it still has loads of features compared to its rivals. Look for used models that had the upgraded infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.