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Motability

Seat Alhambra MPV 1.9 TDI PD Stylance Tiptronic

For:
The Alhambra is often overlooked in the partnership between Ford, Volkswagen and Seat, but ignore it at your loss. It is one of the best big MPVs available.

Against:
More than one suitcase means leaving at least one of the seven seats behind. No longer has a big value advantage over the Sharan and Galaxy.



Performance

The Alhambra range kicks off with a 113bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, which can struggle to cope when faced with the Alhambra's weight. There is also a 1.9-litre turbodiesel 113bhp unit which provides plenty of punch throughout the rev range. Our favourite is the 2.0 diesel, thanks to plentiful power and reasonable running costs.

Ride & handling

The Alhambra is a big MPV, but it's surprisingly good to drive. It doesn't wallow too much in bends, plus the direct steering provides plenty of feedback. The ride may be too firm for some, but it's far from harsh.

Refinement

The Alhambra's cabin is well insulated from wind and road noise. Unfortunately the ageing diesel engines let the side down because they sound noisy. The 1.9 is particularly rough, sending vibrations through the pedals and steering wheel.

Buying & owning

Most versions of the Alhambra retain around 43% of their original list price after three years of motoring, which is broadly comparable with big MPV rivals. For private owners, the diesel-engined models make the most economic sense, particularly the 2.0-litre. Good discounts are available on all vehicles in the range.

Quality & reliability

The Alhambra is feeling its age in the cabin as well as on the road. The materials are hard-wearing and solidly constructed but they aren't as plush as those in newer rivals. The design, too, is dated and bland. Seat's reliability record has been patchy in recent years, too.

Safety & security

All Alhambras have twin front and side airbags, and all but teh 1.9TDI have stability control. Many MPVs have seven airbags these days, so the Seat is lagging behind. All versions have an alarm, immobiliser and deadlocks, but testers still managed to break in to the car in under two minutes.

Behind the wheel

The Alhambra is great in the way it doesn't make you feel like you're driving a bus. The driving position is excellent, with two-way steering wheel adjustment and driver's seat-height movement to help you get comfortable. The dash won't win any prizes for style, but it's well laid out and simple to use. There's good storage, too.

Space & practicality

The Alhambra's seats follow the usual plan of two in the front, two at the rear and three in a row in the middle. The rear five of these seats can be folded, removed or slid forward to create more legroom or boot space. However, they're heavy and awkward to take out and put back.

Equipment

Every Alhambra comes reasonably well equipped - even the most basic specification Reference versions come complete with air-conditioning, front electric windows, a CD player and remote central locking. Stylance trim adds cruise control and climate control, alloy wheels and rear electric windows.

Running Costs

Town mpg

28.2

Out of Town mpg

47.9

Average mpg

38.2

Tank Capacity (gallons)

15.4

CO2 Rating (g/km)

196

Insurance Group

12

Typical Insurance Quote

£518

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

32

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£452

Pence Per Mile

58.45

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£903

Servicing Intervals

10,000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 1yr Paint + 6yr Perforation + 2yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

MPV

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

7

Engine (cc/type)

1896/4

Fuel Type

Diesel

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

113/4000

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

4634

Width (mm)

1810

Height (mm)

1759

Boot Space (min ltr)

256

Boot Space (max ltr)

2610

Turning Circle (m)

11.9

Towing Weight(kg)

2000

Kerb Weight (kg)

1682

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