KEEN pricing - with many models undercutting their predecessors - and high ambitions for greater fleet penetration are key elements in SEAT's plans for its new Ibiza and Cordoba ranges which went on sale on Tuesday. Ibiza prices now start at £500 below the superseded model, from £8,495 on-the-road for the entry-level 1.4.

The mid-range TDi 90bhp version is £745 cheaper than the car it replaces, while the flagship 20V T Cupra at £14,995, costs the same as the outgoing model. SEAT director, John Abbott, confirms that he aims for a much larger slice of the fleet market. Whereas last year, some 25% of Ibiza sales went to fleet buyers, in 2000 he will be aiming for 45%.

The Ibiza has accounted for about two million sales since its initial launch and the new version benefits from a £160 million investment in development. Freshly restyled - especially at the front - it is 20 mm longer than its predecessor and is offered with three new engines, a 156bhp 20V turbo, 1.4 litre 16V (75bhp) and a new 110bhp, Tdi. The interior is all-new.

Prices: New SEAT Ibiza 3-door: Ibiza 1.4 £8,495, Ibiza 1.4S £8,995, Ibiza 1.6 Sport £12,995, Ibiza 1.8 20VT Cupra £14,995, Ibiza 1.9 TDi S £11,250. New SEAT Ibiza 5-door: Ibiza 1.4S £9,395, Ibiza 1.9 TDi S £11,650. New SEAT Cordoba (saloon 4-door): Cordoba 1.6S £10,595,Cordoba 1.9 TDi S £11,650; (Vario 5-door): Vario 1.4S £11,095, Vario 1.9 TDi S £12,650.