THE SEAT name is synonymous with sharp performance, bold designs, first class technology and good economy and the latest Ibiza model is no exception to that rule.

One glance in the direction of the sporty car and it's easy to see that it lives up to its name-tag and will party long into the night without showing any signs of waning or lagging behind.

The Ibiza, which is now in its fourth generation, has just celebrated its 30 anniversary and with five million global sales to date, SEAT has ensured the latest facelifted version is guaranteed to keep the sales books ticking over nicely.

Admittedly, most of the updates are under the skin with new suspension and steering systems to improve performance and dynamics.

There is a range of seven diesel and petrol engines to choose from with efficiency increased by up to 32 per cent and customers can select from the five-door hatchback, sports coupe or sports tourer body designs.

There is also a wide selection of trim levels with prices starting from £10,000.

Whilst the Ibiza's sister cars the VW Polo and Skoda Fabia are more subtle in their design or slightly more budget-based, the Spanish model retains its flamboyant characteristics with LED daytime running lights, neat body creases, angular headlamps, short overhangs and a whole host of personalisation options to add that touch of individuality.

The interior has been given a complete makeover and is very modern and clutter-free with a new colour touchscreen and media system which keeps occupants connected to their smartphones on the move.

There is a new style steering wheel, new dials, plenty of colour packs, plus a choice of new colours including Chilli Red, Mediterranean Blue and Moonstone Silver.

Trim levels begin with a pretty basic E grade and rise through, S, SE, Vista, Connect, FR and FR Red Edition. But whichever trim is selected one thing is guaranteed and that is the wealth of on-board technology at your disposal.

As you move though the spec lines special attention is given to connectivity with seamless and future-proof smartphone integration regardless of the handset manufacturer.

There are special apps to mirror your phone's features and numerous other functions that allow you to track journeys, find your car, find a dealer, check the weather and plenty more besides.

All these systems are a clear indication that the SEAT Ibiza is staying ahead of the game when it comes to technology and infotainment which is vital when the average age of buyer is just 43.

We tried out the highly-economical three-cylinder 1.0-litre 75ps petrol model with five-speed manual gearbox in five-door hatchback style and Vista trim - a car SEAT predicts will be one of the best-sellers in the range.

This particular model, priced at £13,445 (£14,305 with options fitted) can sprint from 0-62mph in 14.8 seconds and tops out at 107mph.

According to official figures it can deliver combined fuel economy of 54.3mpg with carbon emissions of 118g/km.

The first thing that impresses is the clutter-free, yet feature-rich interior.

There is plenty of on-board technology such as a six-speaker sound system with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, a five-inch colour touchscreen, cruise control, air conditioning and lots more but it is all very well contained within the stylish dashboard.

Up front there is plenty of space and the all-round visibility is excellent. Legroom is a little tight in the back especially for adults, but it's not too bad and quite in keeping with most rival five-door hatchback models.

One thing SEAT prides itself on is the driving dynamics of its vehicles and the Ibiza lives up to the big build up. Despite the tiny and very economical engine, the acceleration was nice and sharp with a constant supply of power on tap which helped make light work of overtaking slower vehicles.

The steering feels quite light compared to the outgoing model, but is very precise and delivers good feedback to the driver. Elsewhere, the road-holding was excellent and cabin noise was kept to a minimum too.

I did find on more open roads I was searching for a non-existent sixth gear, but that aside, the new Ibiza delivered a fabulous driving experience.

Obviously with so many body styles, engine choices and trim levels there is an extensive line-up of Ibiza models so we couldn't resist a spin in the range-topping Sports Coupe FR Red Edition with a 1.2-litre 110ps petrol engine and six-speed manual transmission.

This model costs £15,285 rising to £17,665 with extras fitted and can reach 62mph from a standing start in 9.1 seconds and onto a top speed of 122mph. It too can achieve claimed combined efficiency of 54.3mpg.

This particular three-door coupe model really looks the business with its red colour theme apparent on the grille frame, alloys, door mirrors, seatbelts, air vent surrounds, steering wheel trim and gearstick casing.

And the performance seemed sharper too with more dynamic handling, quicker responses and what seemed like more grippy road holding as it moved at pace into tight bends.

Once again, the engine, road surface and wind noise levels were well contained within the cabin and once more the Ibiza was a delight to drive.

The car is relatively practical too when it comes to storage capacities with the three-door sports coupe and the five-door hatchback boasting 292 litres of boot space. But if you are looking for maximum room then the estate can accommodate 430 litres which is increased to 1,164 with the rear seats dropped flat.

All in all, the latest Ibiza isn't going to shock anyone with radical design changes. After all, the car is immensely popular with SEAT fans and that appeal is certain to grow with the increased efficiency, state-of-the-art technology and improved ride and performance capabilities.