The Seat Altea XL 1.4, producing 85 horsepower, represented an entry-level offering within the refreshed Altea XL range launched in 2009, continuing in production through 2013. Positioned as a practical and affordable compact MPV, it aimed to provide family transport with reasonable running costs. The Altea XL itself was a larger, more spacious variant of the original Altea, designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso in the European market. This particular engine and trim level was geared towards buyers prioritizing economy and lower purchase price over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea XL |
| Generation | Altea XL (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2010 |
| End of production | June, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.2 kg/Hp, 61.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.4 kg/Nm, 96 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CGGB |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1375 kg (3031.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1919 kg (4230.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 544 kg (1199.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 532 l (18.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4469 mm (175.94 in.) |
| Width | 1768 mm (69.61 in.) |
| Height | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1527-1541 mm (60.12 – 60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) 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, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 ET47; 6.5J x 16 ET50; 7J x 17 ET54; 7.5J x 18 ET51 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Altea XL 1.4 utilized the CGGB engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was part of Volkswagen Group’s EA111 family, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. It featured a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel to each cylinder individually. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to reasonable breathing for its displacement. The 85 horsepower output was achieved at 5000 rpm, while peak torque of 132 Nm (97 lb-ft) arrived at 3800 rpm. The engine’s modest power output was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the only gearbox option available with this engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine in the Altea XL provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 14.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 105 mph. The engine felt strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with relatively short gearing to keep the engine in its power band. However, this also meant higher engine speeds at highway cruising, potentially impacting refinement and fuel economy. Compared to the more powerful 1.8-liter TSI or 2.0-liter TDI variants, the 1.4 felt significantly slower, but offered a more economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4-liter Altea XL typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality. Standard features generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Safety equipment included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Reference, added features like alloy wheels, rear electric windows, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea XL featured independent suspension all around, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The ABS system provided effective stopping power in emergency situations. The weight distribution was reasonably balanced, contributing to predictable handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Altea XL 1.4 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the engine’s lack of power was a common criticism, particularly when compared to competitors offering more potent engines. The 1.4 offered better fuel economy than the 1.8 TSI, but at the cost of significantly reduced performance. The diesel TDI variants provided even better fuel economy and more torque, but came with a higher purchase price. The Altea XL 1.4 appealed to buyers who prioritized value for money and low running costs over driving excitement.
Legacy
The CGGB 1.4-liter engine, while not known for its longevity or performance, proved to be generally reliable if properly maintained. Common issues included occasional oil leaks and problems with the throttle body. The Altea XL, as a whole, has become a relatively affordable used car option. The 1.4-liter variant remains popular with budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and spacious MPV. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, making it a sensible choice for those seeking a dependable and economical family vehicle.
