THE NEW SEAT ALHAMBRA
09/29/2010
Seat
SEAT continues its product offensive with an exceptionally versatile model. The new Alhambra is an ideal partner for active and sporty families. SEAT's roomy MPV offers plenty of space for leisure, business and hobbies, fulfilling the expectations of family life, as well as the demands of high-mileage business drivers.
Re-engineered from the ground up, the all-new Alhambra combines a high degree of usability with sporting character in true SEAT fashion. Its sophisticated running gear and extensive hi-tech equipment come together with a choice of four engines that combine powerful performance with outstanding efficiency. The 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 hp consumes only 5.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, an absolute best in the segment. As a result, this Alhambra bears the new SEAT logo reserved for extremely low-emission models - E-ECOMOTIVE. Furthermore, the 150 hp 1.4 TSI and the 170 hp 2.0 TDI both feature ECOMOTIVE technology and boast impressive fuel economy with the Stop/Start system and brake energy regeneration function as part of the SEAT efficiency package, and both display the ECOMOTIVE logo.
"Innovation and intelligence are the key words for our new Alhambra. This is a huge step forward in terms of usability as well as in dynamics and safety," comments James Muir, Chairman of SEAT, S.A. "Its outstanding concept combines the highest levels of functionality and state-of-the-art technology with an excellent standard of quality and workmanship. And, of course, it wouldn't be a SEAT if it didn't also represent incredible value for money."
Dimensions
The new generation Alhambra has the perfect format for a versatile MPV. At 4.85 metres, it is now 22 centimetres longer than its predecessor. It has also gained an additional 9 centimetres in width, taking it to 1.90 metres. These dimensions deliver an exceptionally generous amount of room, with ample space in the third row even for two adults. The long sliding doors, which are also available with electric operation in the Style equipment line, offer easy access to all seats. The luggage compartment is also more than generous - measuring a full 2,430 litres, almost 2.5 cubic metres, when the second row of seats is folded in the five-seat version.
The floor of the luggage compartment always remains completely flat, even with the seats folded. When the third row seats are folded, the flat loading surface is 1.3 metres long and is finished with high quality carpeting. With five seats in place, load capacity up to the parcel shelf is 809 litres, or 1,339 litres up to the ceiling when the optional mesh net is in place. Boot space increases to 2,430 litres when the third and second row seats are folded.
The perfect complement to the generous load capacity on the new SEAT Alhambra is the redesigned hatch. To make cargo operations even easier, an electrically operated hatch is available with the Style trim package.
Concept
The focus of development work was on the intelligent and highly variable seating concept. The new Alhambra is available with either five or seven seats. With the new "EasyFold" system, the second and third-row seats can be retracted into the vehicle floor in just one movement. Moreover, the second-row seats can also be positioned sideways, with integrated child seats available as an option. The driver seating position combines the best visibility with sporty character and perfect ergonomics.
Design
The design makes the dynamics of the new SEAT Alhambra clearly evident from the first glance. The car's overall breadth, the clear lines and the distinctive wheel arches create an appearance that exudes a powerful presence. With the arrow-shaped bonnet, the eye-catching grille and the pronounced front skirt also sporting the arrow design, the large MPV sends a clear signal that it is part of the SEAT family. A beefy roof spoiler, the downward sweep of the hatch and large light clusters dominate the rear of the vehicle.
New engine line-up
Beneath its attractive exterior, the Alhambra is an all-new vehicle developed from the ground up and packed with the latest technology. It starts with the engine line-up - the two pairs of TSI and TDI power plants are direct injection turbocharged units. The two TSIs generate 150 and 200 hp, while the TDIs deliver 140 and 170 hp to the front wheels. All four engines supply the Alhambra with a powerful and refined drive.
The new Alhambra features two systems that greatly enhance its efficiency - the Stop/Start system and the brake energy regeneration function, which are included as standard equipment with all engine variants except the 200 hp 2.0 TDI. With an average fuel consumption of 5.5 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of only 143 g/km, the Alhambra equipped with the 140 hp 2.0 TDI delivers the best performance in its segment. Moreover, both TDI units feature a selective catalytic reduction SCR catalytic converter, making them among the cleanest diesel engines in the world.
The new Alhambra is equipped with a manual six-speed gearbox, or an optional dual clutch automatic (standard on the 2.0 TSI). Just like the engines, this high-tech DSG delivers the perfect combination of sporty performance, comfort and efficiency.
Technology and equipment
A wide range of innovative technologies is offered for the new Alhambra - some as optional extras. They include bi-xenon headlamps and automatic high beam disconnection. Also new is the park steer assistant that helps the Alhambra's driver to steer into even relatively tight spaces - both parallel and perpendicular to the road. Furthermore, a three-zone climatronic guarantees comfortable cabin temperatures.
SEAT offers the Alhambra in the Reference and Style equipment lines - with even the Reference level coming with a generous range of equipment. Its extensive safety package incorporates seven airbags, including a driver-side knee airbag, child locks on the rear doors and the ESP stability system complete with trailer stabilisation function and tyre pressure monitoring display.
The new Alhambra is being manufactured at the company's plant in Palmela, Portugal, and is already available throughout the SEAT dealership network with a range of efficient, high-performance engines and a level of equipment that includes several high-tech systems. Now even more functional and featuring greater modular variability and driving comfort, the SEAT Alhambra is slated to become the new benchmark in the large passenger van segment.