The Seat Altea XL 1.6, producing 102 horsepower and capable of running on E85 ethanol, was a variant of the larger Altea XL model produced between 2010 and 2013. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option within the Altea XL lineup, it offered a more economical choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs, particularly in markets where ethanol fuel was readily available and incentivized. This version of the Altea XL was part of the facelifted range introduced in 2009, featuring revised styling and updated technology compared to the original Altea launched in 2004. It competed with other compact MPVs like the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Opel Zafira, offering a blend of practicality, space, and Spanish design flair.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seat |
| Model | Altea |
| Generation | Altea XL (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (102 Hp) Ethanol |
| Start of production | May, 2010 |
| End of production | June, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (Ethanol – E85) | 13.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.0 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (Ethanol – E85) | 8.2 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 (Ethanol – E85) | 10.1 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E85) | 166 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp, 71.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 103.2 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 | CMXA |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1434 kg (3161.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1978 kg (4360.74 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 1.6 utilized the CMXA engine code, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was part of the EA827 family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. It featured a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A key feature of this variant was its flex-fuel capability, allowing it to run on petrol, E85 ethanol, or any blend of the two. The E85 compatibility required specific materials in the fuel system to withstand the corrosive properties of ethanol. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday use, prioritizing smooth shifts and reasonable acceleration rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 102 horsepower and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.6-liter engine resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 12.4 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. While not particularly quick, the engine provided adequate power for typical driving situations. The power delivery was linear, with a noticeable lack of low-end torque. Drivers often needed to downshift to maintain momentum when climbing hills or overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter TDI diesel variants, the 1.6-liter petrol engine felt significantly less responsive. However, it offered a smoother and quieter driving experience than the diesel, and the flex-fuel capability provided a cost-saving option for those with access to affordable ethanol. The manual transmission was generally well-regarded for its light action and precise shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Altea XL 1.6 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as the Style and Reference, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for different colors and patterns. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The Altea XL featured independent suspension all around, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seat Altea XL 1.6 was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable MPV. Its flex-fuel capability was seen as a significant advantage in markets with readily available ethanol. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, particularly when compared to more powerful engine options. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 31.4 US mpg on the combined cycle. The 1.6-liter engine was generally considered more reliable than the more complex diesel engines, but regular maintenance was still essential. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 1.6 offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance and refinement.
Legacy
The Seat Altea XL 1.6 has become a relatively affordable used car option. The CMXA engine is known for its durability, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The flex-fuel capability remains a valuable feature for those seeking to reduce their fuel costs. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Altea XL 1.6 offers a practical and economical solution for families needing a spacious and versatile MPV. Its simple design and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market.
