SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDi SE Ecomotive

What is it?

The latest SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI MPV, that’s received a subtle but effective makeover – making it more affordable to run.

What’s hot?

• Power’s up to 148bhp for the Alhambra’s familiar and willing 2.0-litre diesel engine; it now meets Euro 6 emissions regulations and despite the engine mods, offers even better fuel consumption (56.5mpg) and lower CO2 (130 g/km). This is great news for SME buyers as it falls into the 24% tax charge.
• Blink and you’ll miss the exterior changes made to this face-lifted version of the Alhambra. Inside, the changes to the SEAT’s high-quality cabin are just as subtle. With some new soft-touch plastic trim, fabric for the seats, plus a revised Connect multi-function steering wheel and infotainment system being the only obvious differences.

• It might not be as stylish to look at as say the new Ford Galaxy, but the Alhambra is easily as practical. With those large sliding rear doors, access is excellent, plus once those passengers are in, there’s plenty of legroom so even the tallest will get comfortable. Helpfully, the second row of seats also slide and recline and they also tilt forward for access to the furthest third row of seats.
• To further aid rear comfort in the Alhambra, passengers in the second row also get their rear climate controls to stay hot or cool.
• Boot space in the Alhambra is reasonable with the seats up, but fold all but the front two flush to the floor and at 2.1m it is positively van-like.
• The Alhambra is safer too, with a Multi-Collision Braking system now fitted as standard.
• The latest Alhambra is good to drive, with responsive steering, a slick six-speed manual gearbox and despite the tall dimensions, body roll is kept under control in corners and there’s plenty of grip.
• The ride on the 17-inch alloys is comfortable and composed.

What’s not?

• Despite the Alhambra’s face-lift updates, it looks a bit boxy and dated when compared to Ford’s latest Galaxy and S-Max MPVs.
• There’s plenty of standard kit in the latest SEAT MPV, but it’s a shame the 6.5-inch touch screen navigation system and full link, which includes full compatibility to the latest smart phones, are options at £1,255 and £150 respectively.

The Verdict

Rivals might be better looking, but the Alhambra will still impress business buyers, as it’s such a high value package. On top of improved equipment and more tech, the SEAT MPV is cheaper than ever to run.

Compare it to the latest TDCi 150 Zetec version of the Galaxy though and things don’t look so rosy. The Galaxy is cheaper for starters at £28,354, it also has a more affordable 23% charge and 56.5mpg fuel consumption.

SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDi SE Ecomotive five-door review

The Low Down…..

…..and what it costs