The Seat Alhambra II (7N) 2.0 TDI 136 hp with a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) represents a significant iteration of Seat’s large MPV offering, produced from June 2010 to 2015. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Alhambra lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a more accessible price point compared to higher-powered variants. The 7N generation Alhambra, co-developed with Volkswagen (sharing its platform with the VW Sharan), was designed to compete with established MPVs like the Ford Galaxy and Renault Espace, offering a spacious and versatile interior for families. This particular engine and transmission combination was popular in European markets, offering a good compromise between performance and running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Alhambra |
| Generation | Alhambra II (7N) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (136 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | June, 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CFFA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1803 kg (3974.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 567 kg (1250.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 809 l (28.57 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2430 l (85.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4854 mm (191.1 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2919 mm (114.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 96H; 215/60 R16 95H; 225/50 R17 98H; 225/45 R18 95W |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Seat Alhambra II 2.0 TDI 136 hp DSG, launched in 2010, was a key component of Seat’s strategy to offer a practical and family-oriented vehicle within the competitive MPV segment. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s 1HX0/A3 platform, it shared many components with the VW Sharan and Skoda Octavia, benefiting from economies of scale and proven technology. This variant aimed to provide a balance between affordability, fuel economy, and usability, making it an attractive option for families seeking a spacious and versatile vehicle. It served as a stepping stone into the Alhambra range, offering a more accessible entry point than the more powerful TDI engines.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Alhambra 2.0 TDI 136 hp DSG lies the CFFA engine code, a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, enhancing power output and torque. The 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm.
The ‘DSG’ designation refers to the 6-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox, a dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers the smoothness of an automatic while providing the efficiency and responsiveness of a manual gearbox. It operates by pre-selecting the next gear, allowing for near-instantaneous shifts. The DSG transmission in this application is known for its quick changes and contribution to improved fuel economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp 2.0 TDI engine, paired with the DSG transmission, provided adequate performance for everyday driving and long-distance journeys. While not particularly sporty, it offered sufficient power for overtaking and maintaining highway speeds. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and the top speed was 117.44 mph. The DSG transmission contributed to a smooth and refined driving experience, with quick and precise gear changes. Compared to the higher-output TDI variants (like the 170 hp version), this engine felt less stressed and more relaxed, particularly when fully loaded. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t always feel as responsive as some performance-oriented setups. The automatic transmission also meant that drivers didn’t have to worry about constantly shifting gears in traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Alhambra 2.0 TDI 136 hp DSG typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels, often denoted by ‘Style’ or ‘Sport’ designations, added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented purpose. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and leather seats. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Alhambra II utilized an independent suspension system on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employed McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension featured independent coil springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Alhambra 2.0 TDI 136 hp DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and versatile MPV. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the more powerful TDI variants, this version offered a more affordable entry point into the Alhambra range, but at the expense of outright performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, consistently achieving around 41.3 US mpg in combined driving conditions. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from the shared components with Volkswagen and Skoda models.
Legacy
The Seat Alhambra II 2.0 TDI 136 hp DSG has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The CFFA engine is known for its longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. The DSG transmission, while more complex than a traditional automatic, has also proven to be generally reliable, although regular fluid changes are crucial. Today, these Alhambra models represent a good value proposition for families seeking a spacious and practical MPV at an affordable price. Parts availability is good, thanks to the vehicle’s widespread use of Volkswagen Group components. While not a collector’s item, it remains a popular choice for those prioritizing functionality and practicality over prestige.
