The Seat Altea 1.6 (102 hp) LPG, produced from 2009 to August 2015, represents a practical and fuel-conscious variant within the second generation (facelift) of the Altea compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Positioned as an entry-to-mid-range option, this model aimed to provide affordable family transport with the added benefit of bi-fuel capability, allowing drivers to switch between petrol and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It was part of the 1HX0/A3 platform family, shared with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Skoda Octavia, but distinguished itself through Seat’s sporty design language and value-oriented pricing.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea |
| Generation | Altea (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (102 Hp) LPG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.0 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (LPG) | 13.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (LPG) | 7.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (LPG) | 9.8 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h (LPG) | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph (Calculated) | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Maximum speed (LPG) | 178 km/h |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.3 kg/Hp, 70.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm, 101.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3800 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHGA |
| Engine displacement | 1595 cm3 (97.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1456 kg (3209.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1951 kg (4301.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Fuel tank capacity (LPG) | 49 l |
| 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 | 1533-1541 mm (60.35 – 60.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1503-1517 mm (59.17 – 59.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H; 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91W; 225/40 R18 92Y |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Altea 1.6 LPG is powered by the CHGA engine code, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine adapted for bi-fuel operation. This engine belongs to the EA827 family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel to each cylinder individually. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The LPG system is typically a sequential injection system, ensuring precise fuel delivery in both petrol and LPG modes. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a conventional gear layout optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The engine’s modest output of 102 horsepower and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque is characteristic of this displacement and configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L LPG Altea delivers a driving experience geared towards practicality and economy. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.5 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 13.2 seconds, making it noticeably slower than higher-powered Altea variants like the 2.0 TDI. The five-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, but requires frequent shifting to maintain momentum, especially when loaded or on inclines. The LPG system provides a noticeable reduction in power output compared to running on petrol, with a slight decrease in responsiveness. However, the lower fuel costs associated with LPG often offset this performance difference for drivers covering significant mileage. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 LPG Altea typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-to-mid-range model. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Safety features such as ABS and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Stylance, added features like alloy wheels, climate control, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Altea 1.6 LPG was generally well-received as a practical and economical family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and the cost savings offered by the LPG system. However, some reviewers noted its relatively modest performance and somewhat basic interior compared to rivals. Compared to the 2.0 TDI Altea, the 1.6 LPG offered significantly lower fuel costs but at the expense of performance and refinement. The 1.8L petrol version provided a slight performance advantage but lacked the fuel economy benefits of the LPG model.
Legacy
The Seat Altea 1.6 LPG has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the CHGA engine known for its durability. The LPG system, when properly maintained, adds little to the overall maintenance burden. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and economical family vehicle. However, potential buyers should ensure that the LPG system has been regularly serviced and inspected to ensure safe and reliable operation. The Altea, while discontinued, remains a popular choice for those seeking a practical and versatile MPV with the added benefit of bi-fuel capability.
