The Seat Altea 1.2 TSI (105 hp) represents a significant iteration of the Altea model line, particularly within the facelifted version introduced in 2009. Production of this specific variant ran from April 2010 to August 2015. Positioned as an entry-to-mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for everyday driving. The Altea, as a whole, was Seat’s attempt to carve out a niche in the compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Opel Zafira, primarily targeting the European market. This version utilized the Volkswagen Group’s A5 platform (also known as the PQ35 platform), shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Audi A3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea |
| Generation | Altea (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2010 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 129.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1550-4100 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBZB |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 409 l (14.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4282 mm (168.58 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1535-1533 mm (60.43 – 60.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1503-1515 mm (59.17 – 59.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91W; 225/40 R18 92Y |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altea 1.2 TSI is the CBZB engine code, a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a member of Volkswagen’s EA111 family, known for its compact size and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI – Fuel Stratified Injection) and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. The turbocharger provides a noticeable increase in power compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 TSI engine in the Altea delivers a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. With 105 horsepower, acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds. The turbocharger provides a boost in torque at lower RPMs, making it reasonably responsive for everyday driving situations. However, it does require downshifting for quicker overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering smooth gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 TSI or 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.2 TSI feels less potent, but it compensates with better fuel economy. The Altea’s suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 TSI trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with MP3 compatibility, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the Stylance and Sport, added features like alloy wheels, climate control, a more advanced audio system, and fog lights. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and straightforward dashboard layout.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea 1.2 TSI utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a good balance of comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The Altea’s chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency and agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Altea 1.2 TSI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical MPV. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the 1.2 TSI engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to the 1.4 TSI, the 1.2 TSI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The 2.0 TDI diesel variant provided superior torque and fuel economy but came at a higher purchase price.
Legacy
The 1.2 TSI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel are essential to maintain its longevity. In the used car market, the Altea 1.2 TSI represents a relatively affordable and practical option for those seeking a compact MPV. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it a suitable choice for families and individuals who prioritize practicality over outright performance. The Altea, while not a massive sales success, remains a distinctive and well-regarded vehicle within Seat’s history.
