The fourth generation of the SEAT Ibiza was launched in 2008. It was previewed at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept car, but the series model looked similar and it was introduced in that summer.
The small-segment started to slow down its market share, but it was still very important in the European economy. A big economic crisis was near, but the Ibiza had to start its way to the market and sell whatever it could. It was the first brand from the Volkswagen Group to use the PQ25 platform, which was used later on the Volkswagen Polo, Skoda Fabia, and Audi A1.
The dynamic look of the car was appealing, with emotional angles and sharp lines. The side doors were sculptured and that was not very common for the small-class vehicles. With a new grille design in the front and a bumper that featured a smile-like central air-intake, the Ibiza was well received by the market. The car's designer was Luc Donkerwolke, who also worked for Audi A4, Lamborghini Diablo VT, Lamborghini Gallardo, and the Audi R8 – LeMans racer.
Inside, the car featured all the amenities of a modern car, depending on the trim level. But it could have been ordered with a new infotainment unit that featured navigation system, dual-zone climate control, power windows for all four, and a complete safety package with front and side airbags. In 2012, the SEAT Ibiza received a mid-life cycle impulse that reshaped some of the exterior and the interior. The 5-door version was good to travel around town, but with limited leg-room for the rear passengers.
For the technical department, the Ibiza featured diesel or gasoline-powered engines, ranged between 75 hp and up to 148 hp for the 5-door version.