SEAT Alhambra, spanning production years from 2010 to the present day, stands as a noteworthy member of Volkswagen’s Group minivans. Originating from a collaboration with Ford for its first generation, SEAT took the reins independently for the second generation, introduced in 2010. This medium MPV boasts a distinctive body style that aligns with the van segment, carving out its identity in the automotive landscape.
The exterior design of the SEAT Alhambra is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and evolution. Departing from its collaborative roots, the second-generation Alhambra showcased a sportier aesthetic compared to its Volkswagen Sharan counterpart. The angular headlights, broad black grille with sixteen vertical slats, and a wrapped-around bumper endowed the minivan with an assertive and dynamic presence on the road. Unlike its predecessor, the second generation featured the convenience of sliding rear doors, adding a touch of practicality to its design. At the rear, angular taillights extended seamlessly from the quarter panels to the wide tailgate, completing the overall modern and striking appearance.
Inside, the Alhambra offered a spacious and versatile interior, accommodating up to seven passengers with an option for integrated child seats in the middle row. The front cabin featured a wide dashboard with a tall center stack, housing the audio system and a bottom-mounted climate control unit. SEAT’s attention to detail was evident in the instrument panel, adorned with silver rings around the tachometer and speedometer, emphasizing a blend of style and functionality.
Under the hood, the SEAT Alhambra boasted a range of engine options. While retaining the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel unit from the facelifted first generation, the second generation introduced new powerplants, including the 1.4-liter TSI (turbocharged gasoline) and the 2.0-liter TSI. With power reaching up to 220 hp, the Alhambra showcased not just a bold exterior but also robust performance capabilities, proving that its sporty look was complemented by substantial power under the hood.
One of the notable engine variants is the 1.4L TSI 6MT (150 HP). This four-cylinder engine, with a displacement of 1390 cm3, delivered a power output of 110 KW @ 5800 RPM (150 HP @ 5800 RPM). The torque specifications stood at 177 lb-ft @ 1500-4000 RPM (240 Nm @ 1500-4000 RPM). Equipped with a turbocharged direct injection fuel system, this gasoline-powered engine demonstrated impressive performance metrics. The SEAT Alhambra 1.4L TSI 6MT reached a top speed of 122.4 mph (197 km/h) and accelerated from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 kph) in 10.7 seconds, showcasing its prowess on the road.
The driving experience of the Alhambra was further enhanced by its front-wheel-drive configuration and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring responsive and reliable stopping power. The tire sizes, ranging from 205/60 R16 to 225/50 R17, contributed to the overall stability and handling of the minivan.
In terms of dimensions, the SEAT Alhambra measured 191.1 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 67.7 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 114.9 inches. The front and rear track widths were 61.8 inches and 63.7 inches, respectively, offering a balanced and confident stance on the road. The cargo volume of 9.4 cuFT (266 L) and an unladen weight of 3739 lbs (1696 kg) emphasized the practicality and utility of the Alhambra, catering to the diverse needs of its occupants.
Fuel efficiency was a notable feature, with a combined fuel consumption of 32.7 mpg US (7.2 L/100Km). The city and highway fuel consumption were recorded at 25.6 mpg US (9.2 L/100Km) and 67.7 in (1720 mm), respectively. The SEAT Alhambra also adhered to environmental standards, with CO2 emissions measured at 167 g/km, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
The Alhambra model, belonging to the SEAT brand, has a rich history dating back to 1996 and continuing into the present day. Over the years, it has evolved both in design and technology, consistently adapting to the changing automotive landscape. The comprehensive information provided about the SEAT Alhambra 2010-present model underscores its significance in the medium MPV segment, showcasing a harmonious blend of style, performance, and practicality.